SF Bay BART Fortifies Regional Network at 30

Colma BART Station celebrates 30 years since opening in 1996 as first stop in San Mateo County

2026-02-26, Moovit News Team

Colma BART Station Marks 30 Years of Service

Riders passing through Colma BART Station are traveling through three decades of Bay Area transit history. The station celebrated its 30th anniversary on February 25, marking continuous service since opening February 24, 1996. The milestone represents BART's first step into San Mateo County, a move that eventually connected the system to San Francisco International Airport.
BART train at Colma Station platform with station signage visible

Historic Extension Into San Mateo County

The Colma station's 1996 opening marked a pivotal expansion for BART beyond its original service area. Transit officials said the station represented the beginning of the system's extension into San Mateo County, a project that transformed regional connectivity. The expansion allowed BART to eventually reach San Francisco International Airport, creating a direct rail link that didn't exist before. Specific ridership figures for the station's three decades of operation weren't available, though officials noted the station has served as a key connection point for communities throughout the region.

Three Decades of Regional Connectivity

The station has provided service connecting riders throughout the San Francisco-San Jose metro area for 30 years. Officials said the station's role in the BART network has remained consistent since opening, offering access to destinations across the Bay Area. The anniversary was marked on social media by the transit agency, though details about specific celebration events or commemorative activities weren't provided. Transit officials emphasized the station's importance in reducing reliance on personal vehicles for regional travel.
Colma BART Station exterior showing entrance and station architecture

Milestone Celebrated This Week

The 30th anniversary celebration took place February 25, 2026, one day after the actual opening date of February 24, 1996. Officials didn't specify whether the timing difference was due to the day of the week or other scheduling considerations. The transit agency shared information about the milestone through social media channels, though whether additional commemorative activities are planned wasn't clear from available information.

Continued Service for Bay Area Riders

Riders can continue using Colma Station as a key connection point in the BART system for trips throughout the region. The station remains an important link in the network that extends from the East Bay through San Francisco and into San Mateo County. Moovit provides real-time arrival information and service updates for Colma BART Station and all Bay Area transit routes.