Counties Are Working to Improve 91 Freeway

Re “Familiar Clause Takes a Toll,” Dec. 22, Editorial:

I am happy to report that Riverside County, the Riverside County Transportation Commission and the Orange County Transportation Authority have worked out contract language that eliminates the non-compete agreements for the 91 Express Lanes.

Riverside County has supported OCTA’s effort to buy the toll road primarily because the purchase would eliminate the non-compete clause and allow crucial improvements to the Riverside Freeway. OCTA’s commitment includes an investment of more than $200 million.

Riverside County voters demonstrated their commitment by extending our Measure A transportation sales tax. The extension guarantees more than $490 million will be spent to improve the Riverside Freeway in Riverside County. This all hinges on OCTA buying the toll road and eliminating the non-compete clause.

I’d like to stress that officials in Orange and Riverside counties are working closer together than ever before to address transportation issues, such as new transit and rail service and the need for another corridor linking the two counties. I know our growing relationship with Orange County will achieve lasting transportation solutions that benefit residents in both counties.

John F. Tavaglione

Riverside County supervisor