A variable speed walkway system capable of receiving passengers, accelerating them to above walking speed conveying them over a selected distance at a constant speed, and decelerating them for comfortable exiting is provided. In the preferred form, the system comprises a plurality of rollers driven by a prime mover through individual polyurethane belts to obtain acceleration and deceleration. In a second preferred form, the system comprises a variable speed drive employing one or more belts each of which drives a plurality of rollers. All rollers driven by a single belt accelerate or decelerate in unison. Acceleration and deceleration in this second embodiment is preferably computer controlled. A handrail which accelerates and decelerates with the walkway is provided for both embodiments.