We are citizen activists, developers, business leaders, planners, local elected officials, transit operators, government officials and more. We come together each year, from more than 300 communities, towns and regions of all sizes and shapes, to share ideas and breakthroughs, frustrations and inspiration.

This year's conference brings us close to the policy and decision makers who will shape the dialogue in the coming election year. It allows us to delve into the big questions: "What is the next American dream?" and "Whose responsibility is livability?" It lets us explore the latest on authorization, as well as the successful local and regional efforts to create livable communities in and around the nation's capital.

Non-partisan. Not ideological. The more than 75 workshops, networking events, charrettes and toolbox sessions bring together some of the best minds on livability in the country and the world. They present concrete examples and dialogue to illustrate the rediscovery of community that is sweeping the country.

Whether an established expert or a new professional, attend Rail~Volution if you want to:

Rail~Volution started in 1989 as a series of outreach and advocacy events geared towards developing real advocates for the Portland metropolitan region's MAX Light Rail System. At the conference in 1994, Congressman Earl Blumenauer (District 3, Oregon) announced that in 1995, Rail~Volution would become a national conference. From this point, Rail~Volution acted as a loose federation of sponsoring Partners and Affiliates, united by common interests and dedication. In the year 2000, the National Steering Committee realized the need for a more formal organization, and a strategic planner was brought in to assist this process. The National Steering Committee decided Rail~Volution should develop into a 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization.