The plan to connect Montgomery County and Prince George’s County in Maryland via a Light Rail system called the Purple Line is coming ever closer to fruition.  Construction will likely begin in 2015 and take 3-5 years to complete.  The Light Rail would connect communities near the Capital Beltway, including stops at the Bethesda, Silver Spring and University of Maryland Metro stations.  Although the Purple Line has received some opposition from residents of Chevy Chase, the project has received enough support to continue as planned.  Some residents are concerned about how construction of the Purple Line might affect beloved hiking and biking trails such as the Capital Crescent Trail.  However, many argue that only by building the Light Rail system, will the Capital Crescent Trail be completed as originally planned, to connect Bethesda and Chevy Chase to Silver Spring.  Supporters of the Purple Line, such as the University of Maryland, believe the Light Rail system will provide a much needed service to faculty, staff and students who reside in both counties.  Supporters also hope the Purple Line will help relieve traffic congestion on the Capital Beltway.  Another argument in favor of the Purple Line is the anticipated boost it will provide to the local economy.  According to the Maryland Transit Administration 2010 Annual Report, “Transit Oriented Development near new Purple Line stations would also promote the revitalization of inner-suburban neighborhoods, enhance property values, and bring new housing and business opportunities to the region.”

For more information about the development of the Purple Line, please visit the Maryland Transit Administration website, http://www.purplelinemd.com/.