BART: Bay Area Rapid Transit or Big Ass Rolling Toaster?
BART, a popular mode of transportation that carries around 430,000 passengers each day, is a source of confusion for many who first see its trains resembling big rolling toasters. While some call it Bay Area Rapid Transit, others have more hilarious name suggestions for the acronym BART.
The Bay Area Rapid Transit system is a rapid transit system that serves the San Francisco Bay Area in California. Built in 1972, it is an essential part of Bay Area life, connecting various cities and towns like San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkley. However, BART can often confuse new riders, especially when you consider the layout of the BART system. For example, it’s rare to find a station that is at street level, especially in San Francisco, where stations are usually located far below the ground.
Big Ass Rolling Toaster
Some call BART the “Big Ass Rolling Toaster,” and one can’t deny the nickname’s accuracy. BART trains are indeed large, boxy, and electrically powered, and the exterior design resembles a kitchen appliance that could cook a pizza for a small family. The BART trains’ appearance has inspired many jokes and memes over the years, with some suggesting that one could cook toast on the train’s heating elements.
But the hilarity doesn’t end there. Many riders have noted that BART often feels like a giant slot machine in terms of reliability. Some people have even joked that BART’s system of delays, service interruptions, and shut-downs is more unpredictable than most slot machines. And who can forget the awkward moments of eye-contact with fellow riders during long commutes, or the infamous BART dance moves that occur when the train inevitably shakes and swerves?
However, we must give credit where credit is due. There is something uniquely charming about BART. Despite its quirks, it connects us with our communities, helps us get to work, and provides plenty of opportunities for jokes and laughs. So whether you call it Bay Area Rapid Transit or Big Ass Rolling Toaster, we can all agree that BART is the toast of the town.