$29.5 million project provides parking for Metrolink riders and visitors to Old Towne Orange
ORANGE – Officials from the Orange County Transportation Authority, the city of Orange and the community came together today to mark the completion of a new multi-level parking structure at the Orange Transportation Center.
The structure, at 130 N. Lemon Street, opens today and provides much-needed parking both for the growing number of transit users and for people coming to Old Towne Orange to enjoy the many shopping and dining destinations.
“This structure reflects the historic look and feel of the surrounding area while providing modern amenities that will serve rail passengers and the community for generations to come,” said OCTA Chairman Tim Shaw.
The five-level Old Towne West Metrolink Parking Structure, will provide 608 spaces, replacing a surface lot that had 172 parking stalls. Of those parking spaces, 500 will be dedicated for those who ride the train, while 108 will be designated for general use by those who visit Old Towne.
The city of Orange led the design on the parking structure to ensure that it honored the history and unique character of Old Towne Orange.
“As the Orange mayor and an OCTA board member, I’m thrilled to see the completion of this important project, both for rail commuters and to the people visiting the downtown of our great city,” said Mayor Mark A. Murphy. “We all have reason to be proud.”
Two of the five levels are underground, while three levels rise above ground so that the structure blends in with other buildings in the area. The structure and surrounding plaza include brick work and other design elements intended to reflect and complement nearby historic structures.
At the same time, modern elements are incorporated into the design, including solar panels on the roof to cut down on lighting costs. Six parking stalls include electric car-charging ports. The structure also has 24 bicycle lockers to encourage active transportation such a cycling and walking.
Construction management firm Hill International and Bomel Construction led construction of the parking structure.
The $29.5 million project was funded by Measure M, the county’s half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements also known as OC Go, by the city of Orange, and by a mix of state and federal funds.
