Transit Rail's Transition

This history of developments in rail transit describes its gradual revival after a long decline in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. Seeds for the resurgence were contained in a 1961 housing law that included funds for mass transit demonstration projects. Three years later, Congress passed the Urban Mass Transportation Act, which provided capital grants. In 1970, the federal government made its first long-term commitment to transit funding. That same year, Amtrak was created. Shortly thereafter, the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) system started operations, becoming a showpiece for post-War use of transit to address suburban sprawl. It was also the first computer-driven heavy rail system for passenger use. Additional landmark events are noted, including more recent transportation funding bills with transit earmarks. In recent decades, there has been a boom in rail transit projects, following BART. A timeline marks some 25-30 key events from 1958 to 2008.