The American Public Transit Association (APTA) was created in 1974 with the merging of two major American transit-related organizations, the American Transit Association (ATA) and the Institute for Rapid Transit (IRT). Both organizations trace their histories back decades before this date. The ATA, which originated in 1932, specialized in issues dealing with motor busses and trolley coaches and other motorized transit vehicles. The IRT, organized in 1961, specialized in electric railways and other rapid-transit sources. In January 2000 the name of the organization was changed to the American Public Transportation Association. Today APTA is a leading participant in research and legislation regarding the American transportation industry and issues relating to it.
From the description of American Public Transportation Association records, 1950-1980. (George Mason University). WorldCat record id: 320858806
From the guide to the American Public Transportation Association records, 1950-1980, (George Mason University. Special Collections and Archives.)
