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In 2010, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) launched construction on more than $525 million worth of projects.

Because the agency had shovel-ready projects on the drawing board, it was eligible to receive matching dollars through state and federal sources. Combined with Measure M, the county’s half-cent transportation sales tax, the funds enabled OCTA to quickly advance projects and save 40 percent in construction costs, according to the authority.

During the past year, OCTA has invested $95 million in infrastructure improvements to increase rail service, $85 million to enhance safety at 50 grade crossings and $34.2 million for grade separation projects.