ECR Detour Feb. 2–March 6, weekdays 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Road closure in Burlingame - No service between Rosedale and Oak Grove. Expect delays. More info here.
Our Story
SamTrans began service on Thursday, July 1, 1976, when several local bus systems in San Mateo County were consolidated into one agency serving the Peninsula. The move created a clearer and more consistent public transit system with a focus on countywide mobility.
In its earliest years, SamTrans moved quickly to expand what transit could offer the region. By 1977, the agency launched service along El Camino Real stretching the length of the county, strengthening a corridor that remains central to SamTrans service today.
In its earliest years, SamTrans moved quickly to expand what transit could offer the region. By 1977, the agency launched service along El Camino Real stretching the length of the county, strengthening a corridor that remains central to SamTrans service today.
Around the same time, SamTrans introduced paratransit service, 14 years before it became a federal requirement under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
As communities and travel patterns changed, SamTrans continued to evolve. The agency modernized routes, expanded service, and invested in new ways to make transit more convenient and flexible. Most recently, SamTrans completed the Reimagine SamTrans project, a systemwide effort focused on improving reliability, access, and ease of use.
Over the past 50 years, SamTrans has provided approximately 750 million rides across San Mateo County.
SamTrans’ role has also grown beyond bus operations. The San Mateo County Transit District (SamTrans) now serves as the administrative home for key transportation partners, including shared services that support Caltrain and the San Mateo County Transportation Authority (TA). Together, the District provides what the community has relied on for five decades — a transit system built to connect people, neighborhoods, and opportunities.
As the District began 2026, it was operating 74 bus routes, two on-demand service areas and the county’s paratransit, serving more than 10-million riders annually.
“Working together to revolutionize mobility and create a more equitable and sustainable region.”
SamTrans delivers safe, reliable, and affordable transportation for the people and communities of San Mateo County. Guided by a 10-year strategic and capital plan, the agency is investing in better service, a stronger customer experience, cleaner technology, and a more connected regional transit network.
SamTrans is guided by values that reflect its commitment to the people and communities it serves. These principles shape how the agency delivers service, partners with the community, and plans for the future.
50 Years Strong: The People Behind SamTrans
Behind every mile traveled and every rider served are the people who make SamTrans run. For 50 years, dedicated employees have driven buses, maintained fleets, planned service, supported riders, and kept the system moving.
This anniversary is an opportunity to share their stories. Through interviews with past and present employees, we celebrate the individuals whose work, experience, and commitment have shaped SamTrans and continue to define its culture.
Driving Toward a Cleaner Future
Protecting the environment and improving air quality are central to SamTrans’ values. As the backbone of public transportation in San Mateo County, the agency is focused on reducing emissions while continuing to deliver reliable service.
SamTrans is working toward operating a fully zero-emission bus fleet by 2034, six years ahead of state requirements. This transition represents a major investment in cleaner technology and a healthier future for the communities the system serves.
As of January 2026, the fleet included 37 battery electric buses and 11 hydrogen fuel cell electric buses. Beginning in the spring, the agency expects to expand its hydrogen fleet at a pace of roughly two new buses per week, accelerating progress toward zero-emission operations.
Through innovation and long-term planning, SamTrans is helping drive a cleaner, more sustainable transportation system for San Mateo County.
Celebrating 50 Years of Connection, Service, and Community
SamTrans is a trusted part of everyday life in San Mateo County — helping students get to school, employees get to work, seniors stay independent, and families stay connected. SamTrans brings communities together by creating access to opportunities, supporting equity, and caring for the people it serves. Through decades of change, SamTrans has remained committed to listening, adapting, and serving with purpose.
Join Us for a Community Celebration as We Mark 50 Years of Partnership, Inspiration, and Connection
As we celebrate SamTrans’ 50th anniversary, we’re excited to bring our community together through a series of special events and activities. From our Community Celebration to the 50th Anniversary Jingle Contest and more. Together, we’re honoring our history, our people, and the connections that keep our community moving — then and now.
Event dates and details coming soon.
Special Edition
The 50th Anniversary Bus
Look for our specially wrapped bus featuring a stunning design that celebrates our history! A retro-inspired bus wrap that channels the style of the 1970s, celebrating when SamTrans first began serving San Mateo County.
50 Years of Milestones
Journey through five decades of innovation, growth, and community impact
2020s
- 2021 – Launches SamTrans Youth Unlimited pilot program for free rides for low-income students.
- 2023 – Ride Plus on-demand service launched in the East Palo Alto and Half Moon Bay areas.
- 2024 – Wins the American Public Transportation Award for best transit system and Reimagine SamTrans is fully implemented.
- 2025 – First hydrogen buses enter service
- 2026 – SamTrans surpasses 750-million rides
Our Team
Behind every bus and route are dedicated employees who make SamTrans run smoothly every single day
11 Years
Elbert Marshall
Elbert Marshall
Bus Operator
"I learned so much here - I wouldn't trade it for anything. Operating a bus isn't just about driving - it's about public service and keeping people safe."
25 Years
Andrew McCambridge
Andrew McCambridge
Maintenance Training Instructor
"I work with people that enjoy their job - that are motivated to give the best customer service they can. And I work with a really diverse group of people. I love it here."
18 Years
Qi Ni Chen
Qi Ni Chen
Bus Operator
"I enjoy driving - and I love seeing people everyday. I love learning more about my passengers and seeing them everyday. SamTrans was there for me during hard times - I love it here."
Join Our Team
Be part of the next chapter in SamTrans history. We're always looking for dedicated individuals to join our family.
Share Your SamTrans Story
Help us celebrate 50 years by submitting your favorite SamTrans memories and photos!