San Francisco BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit)

The San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit, commonly known as BART, began operations on September 11, 1972, ushering in a new era of rapid transit for the San Francisco Bay Area. BART was established to meet the region's growing transportation needs and reduce traffic congestion, providing a reliable and efficient means of transportation. The inaugural line, running from MacArthur Station to Fremont Station in Oakland, marked the beginning of an extensive network that has since expanded to more than 130 miles of track and 50 stations. BART stands as a testament to the Bay Area's commitment to sustainable and accessible public transportation, providing a vital link for millions of riders and contributing to the dynamic and interconnected nature of the region's urban landscape.

OperatorSan Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District
Operation start11 September 1972
Total Lines6 Metro Lines
Total Station50 Active Stations
Metro City/CountryCalifornia United States
Official Webhttps://bart.gov/

Metro linesStationsTerminal stations
Orange Line21Richmond Berryessa/​North San José
Yellow Line26Pittsburg/​Bay Point Millbrae
Green Line22Berryessa/​North San José Daly City
Red Line24Richmond Millbrae
Blue Line18Dublin/​Pleasanton Daly City
Oakland Airport Connector2Coliseum Oakland International Airport

  • Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) began operations on September 11, 1972 with the opening of the initial line connecting MacArthur Station to Fremont Station in Oakland.
  • BART serves the San Francisco Bay Area, connecting major cities such as San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, and beyond, extending to San Francisco International Airport and Antioch.
  • The iconic Transbay Tube, a submerged tunnel beneath the San Francisco Bay, enables trains to travel between San Francisco and Oakland, providing a vital link in the BART system.
  • BART operates five lines: the Antioch, Richmond, Warm Springs/South Fremont, Dublin/Pleasanton, and Pittsburgh/Bay Point lines, each serving different parts of the Bay Area.
  • BART uses a fleet of technologically advanced trains, which feature distinctive design elements and provide a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
  • BART provides a dedicated service to Oakland International Airport, allowing passengers to easily reach the airport from a variety of locations within the Bay Area.
  • BART has undertaken expansion projects over the years, expanding its reach to new areas and increasing its capacity to accommodate the area's growing population.
  • BART stations are strategically located to connect to other modes of transportation, including buses and ferries, creating a comprehensive and integrated transit network.
  • BART has influenced transit-oriented development around its stations, fostering the creation of vibrant communities and reducing reliance on the private automobile.
  • In recognition of seismic activity in the area, BART has initiated retrofitting projects to increase the system's resiliency and safety in the event of an earthquake.