Multi-annual Program “By Railway to the 21st Century” as Key Factor in the Development of Rail Transport in Poland

In the paper the present conditions of rail transport RT in Poland and determinants of RT development, including high-speed rail HSR, have been discussed. The Multi-annual Program (MAP) “By railway to the 21st century” as a multifunctional system of scientific, technical and educational support for the development of RT and integrated regional transportation systems, has been presented. The importance of MAP for Poland and RT sector has been discussed. The Rail Transport Consortium (RTC) established for the implementation of MAP, its objectives and effects of MAP realization in 2020 ÷ 2030+ were described. The international and national aspects of RT development (including HSR) and implementation of the MAP, have been analyzed.