OCTA embeds diversity, equity and inclusion into everything we do. Our five pathways – people, programs, projects, policies and partnerships – lead to reliable, accessible and balanced transportation choices for everyone in Orange County.
In 2023, through the Board Initiatives and CEO Action Plan, OCTA will strengthen our commitment to diverse and disadvantaged communities by ensuring strategies are integrated with OCTA projects, studies and marketing materials; enhancing engagement with OCTA’s Diverse Community Leaders; providing training to employees; and communicating DEI efforts to the public, OCTA Board members and executive leaders.
Here are some of our accomplishments to date.
People
We're committed to communication, training and representation so that everyone – passengers, public, community partners and employees – is along for the ride.
Communication
To support transit operations, capital projects and planning studies, OCTA develops proactive diversity outreach and inclusion strategies using traditional and digital tactics to engage with diverse and underrepresented communities on OCTA initiatives and activities.
Training
Our standardized interview training helps ensure unbiased hiring practices. All employees have taken unconscious bias training and workplace harassment prevention. OCTA is adding to employee development by introducing microagression training for all coach operators.
Outreach
Many of our communications, from websites to fliers to customer support, are provided in multiple languages.
Task Forces
Two internal task forces address diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging and are working on enhancing and embedding these principles throughout the agency.
A Diverse Workforce Serving a Diverse County
More than 70% of our workforce is composed of diverse groups, and 44% of the executive team is comprised of women. Orange County is a vibrant mix of different groups and the OCTA workforce reflects that diversity. Working together, we forge a strong transportation system for all.
OCTA Workforce
- Latinx (34%)
- White (28%)
- Asian (20%)
- Black (14%)
- Multiracial (3%)
- Native American / Other (1%)
Orange County Population
- Latinx (34%)
- White (40%)
- Asian (21%)
- Black (2%)
- Multiracial (2%)
- Native American / Other (1%)
Programs
We develop, fund and manage programs that address the diverse travel needs of Orange County's residents and preserve the unique character of our communities.
Cleaner Fuel, Cleaner Air
Our zero-emission buses primarily travel through the county's disadvantaged communities, providing cleaner air to residents.
Ride Sharing Reduces Pollution
OC Vanpool and OC Rideshare remove vehicles from the road, leading to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
Better Transit for Orange County
OCTA has begun implementing changes as a result of the Making Better Connections Study. Through this study and thanks to the public’s input, OCTA is reimagining a transit system that offers better connections to people, places and communities.
Free Rides Benefit Students
Orange County’s students have taken millions of rides through the Community College Pass and Youth Ride Free programs, which provide bus passes to students at low or no cost, ensuring that transportation is never a barrier to education.
Accessible Transit for All
OC ACCESS provides rides to those unable to use the regular OC Bus system due to functional limitations caused by a disability.
Cleaner Environment, Healthier Community
The Environmental Mitigation Program offsets the environmental impacts of freeway projects and the Environmental Cleanup Program helps keep waterways and the ocean free from transportation-generated pollution.
Projects
To deliver benefits that positively affect Orange County, we plan, develop, fund and manage efforts that improve access to transportation.
Planning for the Future
OCTA is finalizing the Long-Range Transportation Plan, which provides strategies on how best to expand transportation options for residents, workers and visitors throughout Orange County in the decades to come.
Protecting Rail Service for All
The Rail Infrastructure Defense Against Climate Change Plan addresses climate change stressors in several disadvantaged communities and low-income census tracts.
Equitable Walking & Biking to Schools
Safe Routes to Schools aims to make it safer and easier for students at every school district across the county to walk and bike to school.
Healthy Transit Option for Congested Area
OC Streetcar will provide safe, reliable, high-frequency transit service in one of the most densely populated areas in the U.S.
Active Transportation for Healthy Communities
OC Active serves as a central resource for safety improvements and projects and provides grant funding to cities and the county to improve pedestrian and cycling facilities.
Policies
Developed in accordance with all federally mandated, equity-related requirements.
Our policies consider transportation impacts and effects on communities, ensure that major changes to bus service will not disproportionately impact low-income and minority neighborhood, give communities a voice in future transportation improvements and help keep the OCTA workplace free of harassment and discrimination.
OCTA operates all of its services, programs and activities without regard to race, color or national origin in accordance with Title VI federal regulations.
Partnerships
We collaborate with those who have similar goals to broaden understanding, diversify resources and build momentum.
Working with Others to Benefit All
We are affiliated with several local, regional and national organizations focused on advocating for a more diverse, inclusive and equitable transportation industry, including among others, the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials, Women's Transportation Seminar and Latino Health Access.
Inclusive Business Communications
We provide inclusive business opportunities in diverse communities to ensure their needs are being met and they are informed and able to communicate with OCTA during projects.
Promoting Regional Equity
Equity partnerships include the Southern California Association of Governments' Equity Task Force, LA Metro's Office of Race and Diversity and Caltrans.
Involving Diverse Leaders
We host quarterly meetings with a diverse community leaders group representing business, community, civic, faith, education and nonprofits to gain feedback and provide updates related to OCTA's projects and programs.
Moving forward
Our diversity, equity and inclusion efforts are ongoing. We champion all who live and work throughout Orange County.