Fifty years ago, on September 20, 1975, the North County Transit Development Board was established by California Senate Bill No. 802 to plan, construct, and operate public transit in North San Diego County. The new transit agency’s jurisdiction would include Oceanside, Carlsbad, San Marcos, Vista, Escondido, Fallbrook, Pauma, Valley Center, San Dieguito, and Ramona. The Board would serve as the operator of bus service within the North County area, absorbing the municipal bus systems of Escondido and Oceanside.

Since then, the North County Transit Development Board evolved into the North County Transit District, adopting the acronym NCTD, and is now operating as North County Transit – San Diego Railroad. NCTD expanded its service and established the COASTER commuter rail in 1995, SPRINTER hybrid rail in 2008, FLEX deviated fixed route service, LIFT paratransit service, and NCTD+ on-demand. Together, these services intertwine to provide a robust transit network for North County communities and into downtown San Diego.

Over the course of 50 years, NCTD has achieved major noteworthy milestones. The agency remains focused on the future, continuing to modernize its services, enhance the rider experience, and expand access across North County San Diego.

NCTD Milestones

NCTD is proud to continue its legacy of continuous improvement. Earlier this year, NCTD placed new COASTER cab and coach cars into service, improving the rider experience and enhancing safety of its commuter rail service. This year, NCTD will redesign its SPRINTER vehicles, the first of which will be launched as part of the 50th Anniversary. NCTD also unveiled a new logo this year, renewing the agency’s presence in the community.