Orange County Bulletin (April 22nd)

Author

Eric Nguyen
April 22, 2024

Welcome to The Orange County Bulletin (April 22nd)

Local News

Irvine offering free bus rides with new pilot program

Konstantin Evchenko typically relies on his E-scooter for grocery runs, limited by what he can carry in his backpack. However, today he's opting to leave it behind.

Just a brief stroll from his Irvine residence lies a stop for the newly introduced free bus service, Irvine Connect.

Transit Administrator Mike Davis emphasized the aim for maximum convenience, with buses running every 20 minutes and a plethora of nearby stops. "We decided, why don't we just make it free," Davis explained.

While other transportation agencies grapple with route cuts and financial constraints, Irvine embarked on this one-year, $4 million pilot program starting April 1. With 70 stops across town, destinations include the Spectrum Shopping Center, Hoag Hospital, and the Irvine Metrolink station.

Presently, many bus stops are inconspicuous, marked by modest yard signs. However, city officials assure that this will soon change. "Over the next 60 days, you should start to see permanent stops," Davis assured.

Despite the makeshift signage, Evchenko, an advocate for climate-conscious living, enthusiastically embraces the complimentary rides. "When I walk with my kid, it takes about 25, sometimes 30 minutes to get there. So, definitely faster," he observed.

During his grocery trip, several passengers were bound for the Spectrum.

"I don't have to take my car," expressed resident May Tsui. "I can look at the scenery. I really like it."

Even teenagers without licenses seized the opportunity for a bus ride.

With the newfound convenience, Evchenko was able to purchase more groceries than usual. "I can just stock up on everything I need to while also enjoying my coffee — while waiting for the bus," he shared.

After a brief, air-conditioned journey of six minutes, Evchenko resumed his walk home, hopeful that the pilot program gains traction and expands beyond its one-year tenure, potentially rendering his car unnecessary. "If we have more of those things of buses, the light rail, there wouldn't be a need," he reflected.

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in Orange County this week. This is a good mix between sports, entertainment, concerts, conferences, and more.

Sports

Los Angeles Angels vs Baltimore Orioles Angel Stadium Tuesday April 23rd | 6:38 PM | (more info)

Los Angeles Angels vs Minnesota Twins Angel Stadium Friday April 26th | 6:38 PM | (more info)

Los Angeles Angels vs Minnesota Twins Angel Stadium Sunday April 28th | 1:07 PM | (more info)

Los Angeles Angels vs Philadelpha Phillies Angel Stadium Wednesday May 1st | 1:07 PM | (more info)

Entertainment

Riley Green House of Blues Wednesday May 1st | 6:00 PM (more info)

Riley Green House of Blues Thursday May 2nd | 6:00 PM (more info)

Beach Life Festival Redondo Beach, CA Friday May 3rd | 12:00 AM (more info)

Joshua Bell And Larisa Martinez Segerstrom Concert Hall Sunday May 5th | 3:00 PM (more info)

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Eric Nguyen