Purple Line = Light Rail

Decades of studies, debate and meetings have finally resulted in a major decision for the fabled purple line. Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley has officially announced that the purple line will be a light rail system connecting New Carrollton and Bethesda metro stations through Silver Spring. This is an important step toward uniting two portions of suburban Washington that are currently disconnected by the red line.

For years, there were discussion about whether a bus or a light rail system were appropriate for the purple line. Citizens have argued about the path of the purple line, with many upset at the idea of having it run along the Capital Crescent Trail and a major country club property. In the end, the Governor took the advice of Prince George’s and Montgomery County leaders who supported the path of the old Georgetown Branch railroad right of way through Bethesda and Chevy Chase, which will still touch the Trail and country club.

The next step for the purple line is a funding request submitted to the Federal Transportation Administration. The light rail system is competing for funding in the New Starts transit program that sets aside money for public transportation programs in the states. Several other states have requested funding from the program. There will also likely be lawsuits filed to amend the purple line’s plan for less environmental, roadway and private property impact.

Expect many years to pass before construction begins on the new purple line, but this is still a big step in its eventual development. You can learn more about the purple line on the Maryland Transit Administration’s website.

Photo Credit: Flickr CC User LeeLeFever