OCTA Names New Chair to Guide Greater LA Transit
Dana Point council member Jamey Federico takes over as OCTA board chair from Doug Chaffee
OCTA Names Federico Board Chair for 2026
Orange County's transit agency has new leadership guiding transportation decisions for millions of Southern California residents. Dana Point council member Jamey M. Federico will chair the Orange County Transportation Authority's 18-member board in 2026, officials announced January 26. Federico takes over from Doug Chaffee in a transition that affects transit services, highway projects, and mobility initiatives across the Greater Los Angeles metropolitan area.
Leadership Role in Regional Transportation
The OCTA Board Chair oversees policy decisions for public transportation services connecting communities throughout Orange County, according to the transit agency. The position guides planning for bus routes, rail projects, and highway improvements that serve the region's growing population. Federico's appointment continues the board's work on transit expansion and congestion reduction, officials said. The leadership change comes as Southern California agencies balance service demands with infrastructure needs.
Transition from Previous Chair
Federico succeeds Doug Chaffee, who led the board through the previous term, transit officials confirmed. The transition maintains continuity in the agency's approach to regional mobility and connectivity improvements, according to OCTA. Officials didn't specify what priorities Federico will emphasize during his tenure or how his leadership approach might differ from his predecessor's. The 18-member board includes elected officials from cities and county government throughout Orange County.
Implementation Timeline
Federico assumed the board chair role in early 2026 following the January 26 announcement, officials said. The agency didn't provide details about the length of the term or when the next leadership selection will occur. OCTA typically rotates board leadership among member jurisdictions, though specific succession plans weren't available.
Impact on Transit Operations
The leadership change won't affect day-to-day transit operations, but Federico will guide policy decisions on service levels, route planning, and infrastructure investments throughout his tenure. Riders can expect continuity in existing bus and rail services during the transition. Moovit provides real-time updates and trip planning for OCTA routes across Orange County.
