What is Measure M?
Measure M is the one-half cent sales tax approved by Orange County voters in November 1990 for countywide transportation improvements. Measure M is expected to raise $4.2 billion over its 20-year life, all of which will be used for specific projects and programs in the Traffic Improvement and Growth Management Plan.
Measure M was created to develop a varied transportation system that would relieve congestion on existing freeways and streets and roads, and ensure future mobility within Orange County. The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) administers Measure M funds. Orange County freeways receive 43% of Measure M funds to keep traffic flowing; streets and roads receive 32% of the funds for improvements, maintenance and rehabilitation; and 25% of the funds is designated for transit improvements and used to stabilize bus fares for seniors and people with disabilities. Measure M funding also includes $340 million for a state-of-the-art high capacity transit system in central Orange County.
Citizens Oversight Committee
Who makes sure that Measure M funds are spent on transportation projects that you and your fellow Orange County voters approve? Measure M requires that a nine-member Citizens Oversight Committee (COC) monitor OCTA's use of all Measure M funds. Every year since its beginning in 1990, the COC has found OCTA in compliance with all Measure M requirements. For information on who can serve on the COC, how members are chosen, and responsibilities of the COC, click on the Citizens Oversight Committee link at the right.
