Purple Line Construction Resuming This Spring With $1.76 Billion Loan

SILVER SPRING, MD — Construction on the Purple Line is set to resume this spring and be completed in fall 2026, said Purple Line Transit Partners, which is managing the project.

The project began in 2017 and was originally scheduled to be finished this March, but was delayed after disputes with previous construction partners, WTOP reported.

“We are excited to start a new chapter and deliver the Purple Line to Maryland,” said MDOT MTA Administrator Holly Arnold in a news release. “There will be a noticeable increase in construction activity later this spring and summer as this critical project moves forward."

The The U.S. Department of Transportation is providing a $1.76 billion loan to complete the project, which will run between New Carrollton and Bethesda. The line, which will run east to west, is planned to connect with five branches of the Metrorail, three MARC commuter rail lines, Amtrak and bus services, Purple Line Transit Partners said in a news release.

"Later this spring and summer, neighboring residents and business will witness a resumption of activity on major project elements, including stations, overpasses, tunnels and track installation," said Purple Line Transit Partners in the release.

Stakeholders hope that the Purple Line will cut back on the need for cars to commute.

“The Purple Line will provide faster, more direct, and more reliable transit service for the suburban Maryland and DC region’s residents and visitors while easing congestion on local roads,” said Deputy Transportation Secretary Polly Trottenberg in a news release. “By cutting an estimated 17,000 vehicle trips each day and operating using electric power, this project has tremendous environmental benefits as well.”