More parking available for Metrolink riders in Orange County

Metrolink riders in Orange County, Calif., now have more options for parking their cars as the result of a new, 176-space lot at the Laguna/Mission Viejo Station.

Built on Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA)-owned property, the lot opened yesterday, bringing the total number of parking spaces at the station to 460, OCTA officials said in a press release.

The $4.3 million project was funded by Measure M, the county's half-cent sales tax for transportation improvements and state funds through Prop 1B.

"As our population continues to grow, it increases the importance for Metrolink to provide a true alternative to sitting on the freeway," said OCTA Director Frank Ury. "This kind of improvement helps commuters more easily access a train and makes Metrolink a more attractive choice."