Balance, Sustainability and Organizational Excellence Guide OCTA’s 2026 Initiatives

OCTA Chair Jamey M. Federico and CEO Darrell E. Johnson unveil action plan for OCTA to sustain and enhance an innovative transportation network for all Orange County

ORANGE - The Orange County Transportation Authority in 2026 will focus on delivering a balanced, sustainable and equitable transportation system while strengthening organizational resiliency and fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.

Those priorities are outlined in the 2026 Board and CEO Initiatives and Action Plan, which was presented today to the OCTA Board of Directors by OCTA Chair Jamey M. Federico and CEO Darrell E. Johnson. The plan serves as a roadmap to guide the agency's work throughout the year and ensure continued progress and accountability on voter-approved transportation investments and essential mobility services.

Each year, the newly elected Board Chair works with the CEO to develop and present a set of strategic initiatives that reflect community values, fiscal responsibility and long-term planning. The initiatives were reviewed and accepted by OCTA's 18-member Board.

"This plan reflects our responsibility to deliver on our commitments to Orange County residents by providing safe, reliable and accessible transportation choices," said OCTA Chair Jamey M. Federico. "By focusing on balance, sustainability and collaboration, we are ensuring that OCTA continues to meet today's transportation needs while preparing for the challenges and opportunities of the future."

The 2026 Board and CEO Initiatives focus on three overarching priorities:

• Providing a Balanced, Sustainable and Equitable Public Transportation System - Delivering safe, reliable and accessible travel options for residents, commuters and visitors, advancing Measure M projects and programs, and engaging stakeholders through meaningful public input.
• Enhancing Organizational Strength Through Financial Stewardship and Environmental Leadership - Demonstrating prudent financial management, responsibly using taxpayer dollars, strengthening adaptability to economic and environmental conditions, and championing sustainability initiatives that support healthy communities.
• Sustaining a Culture of Excellence, Collaboration and Inclusion - Expanding partnerships with key agencies, organizations and communities, fostering a safe and inclusive workplace that empowers employees, and promoting innovation, accountability and teamwork across the organization.

To support these initiatives, OCTA staff will advance 104 planned projects and program milestones in 2026, with progress updates provided to the Board throughout the year.

"By clearly defining our priorities and aligning them with measurable actions, we ensure accountability and transparency in everything we do," said OCTA CEO Darrell E. Johnson. "This plan positions OCTA to remain fiscally responsible, environmentally conscious and responsive to the communities we serve, while continuing to keep Orange County moving safely and efficiently."

To learn more about OCTA programs and projects, visit https://www.octa.net.

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