Riverside County, established in 1893, has a rich history and has seen rapid growth. Riverside residents understand the central role that driving plays in their lives, given how many often commute for work and pleasure to nearby regions of California, such as Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange County, and San Diego.

Recent decades have witnessed significant population growth, making Riverside County the fourth largest in California and the 10th largest in the U.S. The region’s driving culture is marked by challenges, including deteriorated roads, congestion, and safety concerns. The average Riverside-San Bernardino driver incurs $2,675 in additional vehicle operating costs annually due to rough roads, congestion- related time and fuel losses, and the financial impact of traffic crashes.

Traffic congestion is a notable issue, costing the average driver $1,365 annually in lost time and wasted fuel. Riverside-San Bernardino drivers spend approximately 60 hours each year stuck in congestion, affecting both commuting and commerce. The collective cost of deficient roads in California amounts to $61 billion annually.

With a recent count indicating over 2.1 million registered drivers in Riverside, including 1.5 million automobiles and 400,000 trucks, the region’s driving culture reflects both its historical significance and the modern challenges associated with population growth and transportation infrastructure. It goes without saying that the loss of reliable transportation can very seriously affect a Orange County residents quality of life.