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SacRT's Evolutionary Journey

From its inception in 1973 through landmark expansions, SacRT has revolutionized Sacramento’s public transit, bridging communities with innovative networking solutions.
SacRT Evolutionary Journey

SacRT: Driving Sacramento's Transit Evolution

Beginnings

SacRT, starting in 1973, quickly expanded its fleet and facilities.

Light Rail Development

1987 marked the launch of SacRT's light rail, connecting key city corridors.

Governance

Guided by an 12-member Board and dedicated to a robust workforce and facilities.

Workforce

Operated by a dedicated team of 1,500, serving under strong governance.

Sacrt

Over 50 Years of Connecting the Region

Take a journey through SacRT's half-a-century history, starting from its early beginnings and culminating in its present role as a vital transportation system connecting the Sacramento region.

1973 2024

1973198719981999200320042005200620122015201920232024
Black and white image showing buses parked in a parking structure, with the view of the tops of several buses labeled with numbers, taken in 1973.

1973

In 1973, the Sacramento Regional Transit District was established to provide efficient and reliable public transportation for the Sacramento area. This marked the beginning of a new era in public transit, focused on improving accessibility and connectivity to meet the growing needs of the community.

Photo from 1987 showing the launch of the 18.3-mile light rail, with passengers walking along the tracks and a light rail train approaching.

1987

Launch of the 18.3-mile light rail, connecting northeastern and eastern corridors with downtown.

Photo from 1998 showing the first light rail extension, with a train arriving at Mather Field/Mills Station.

1998

First light rail extension, opening the Mather Field/Mills Station.

Photo from 1999 showing the grand opening of SacRT's South Line light rail extension to Meadowview, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

1999

In 1999, SacRT expanded its light rail service with the opening of the South Line, significantly enhancing connectivity to South Sacramento. This expansion marked a major milestone in the growth and development of the region's public transportation network.

Light rail train during its first phase opening, 2003.

2003

Blue Line's first phase opens to South Sacramento, a 6.3-mile extension with seven new stations.

Confetti falling at the Mather Field/Mills Station extension ribbon-cutting, 2004.

2004

Light rail extends from Mather Field/Mills Station to Sunrise Boulevard, adding three stations.

Construction kickoff for the Folsom light rail extension, 2005.

2005

Light rail was extended 7.4 miles east from the Sunrise Station to the city of Folsom, with four new stations.

Ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Sacramento Valley Station extension, 2006.

2006

Opens .7-mile extension to Sacramento Valley Station, enhancing connectivity with Amtrak.

Sacramento light rail with vibrant branding at a station, 2012.

2012

Introduced the Green Line to the River District.

People boarding the Blue Line at a station, 2015.

2015

Blue Line extends to Cosumnes River College, a 4.3 miles line featuring four new stations.

Sacramento bus traveling through a neighborhood, 2019.

2019

Citrus Heights, Folsom transit services annexed; Elk Grove service contract awarded.

A large group of Sacramento Regional Transit employees celebrating 50 years, 2023.

2023

SacRT celebrates 50 years of service in the region

Sacramento’s low-floor train arriving at a station in 2024.

2024

In 2024, SacRT proudly introduced its new low-floor trains, enhancing accessibility and comfort for all riders.

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