Orange County transit agency solicits feedback on Measure M sales tax

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) this week issued a call for feedback on Measure M, a half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements.

The agency's request for public comments is part of a 10-year review of the tax, which was renewed by Orange County voters in 2006, OCTA officials said in a press release.

By ordinance, feedback must be collected on the tax at least every 10 years.

Residents can share their opinions on the measure through an online questionnaire.

So far, revenue from Measure M has gone toward upgrading 52 rail-highway grade crossings, as well as a host of freeway improvements, OCTA officials said.

In the future, the tax will be used to help expand Metrolink rail service into Orange County, and is expected to partially fund the proposed Orange County Streetcar line.

A total of 25 percent of Measure M proceeds will go toward transit projects, while the remainder will be used for streets and freeways.

By 2041, Measure M is expected to bring in $15.7 billion worth of transportation improvements in the region, OCTA officials said.