New York City ? The Dow Jones industrial average reached a milestone Thursday in Wall Street’s nearly seven-year recovery from corporate upheaval, economic recession and terrorism, briefly trading above its record high close of 11,722.98 set Jan. 14, 2000.

The index of 30 blue chip stocks surpassed its record, rising to a high of 11,728.46 in early-morning trading. Stocks closed only modestly higher amid a dearth of news that could motivate investors; still, it was the market’s fourth straight advance.

The Dow rose 29.21, or 0.25 percent, to 11,718.45. It has yet to reach its all-time trading high of 11,750.28, also set Jan. 14, 2000.

The last time the Dow stood at these levels, Wall Street was propelled by wide-eyed investors eager for a slice of the wealth being generated by the dot-com and housing booms.