The long-anticipated Purple Line light rail project is now 80% complete, according to transit officials, with rail car testing actively underway. The 16-mile transit line, which will connect New Carrollton to Bethesda with 21 stations, remains on schedule for its December 2027 opening.
Light Rail Vehicle Testing Underway
As of now, 10 out of the planned 28 rail cars have been delivered and are undergoing operational testing at a designated facility in Glenridge. The full fleet is expected to arrive by the end of 2025, according to Ray Biggs III, Senior Project Manager for the Purple Line. The rail cars operate on tracks and are powered by electricity supplied through an overhead catenary system, portions of which are currently being installed across the line.
“The testing marks a major milestone,” said Biggs. “Each successful run brings us closer to delivering reliable and efficient service to the region.”
Project Overview
The Purple Line is Maryland’s first light rail line to be built entirely outside of Baltimore and is designed to significantly enhance east-west connectivity in the Washington, D.C. suburbs. It will link key locations including:
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University of Maryland
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Silver Spring
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Takoma-Langley Transit Center
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Riverdale Park
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College Park
This light rail line will provide direct transfers to Metro’s Red, Green, and Orange lines, Amtrak, MARC, and local bus routes, creating a more integrated regional transit system.
Construction Focus in Silver Spring
Major construction efforts are currently concentrated in Downtown Silver Spring, particularly at the busy intersection of Wayne Avenue and Fenton Street. Through September 5, crews will be:
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Installing light rail tracks
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Reconstructing sidewalks
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Making safety enhancements to pedestrian crossings
Officials have urged motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution when traveling through construction zones and to expect delays and detours during peak hours.
Community and Economic Benefits
Once completed, the Purple Line is expected to reduce congestion, provide a sustainable commuting alternative, and spark economic development across Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. The project has also created thousands of construction and related jobs.
Local businesses along the route are being encouraged to prepare for the increase in foot traffic the line is expected to bring once operational. Transit planners anticipate over 69,000 daily riders by 2040.
Looking Ahead
With the bulk of the heavy construction nearly finished and train testing in full swing, the Purple Line is transitioning from a long-delayed infrastructure project to a reality on the horizon.
“The finish line is in sight,” said Biggs. “This rail line will change the way people move around the region, and we’re excited to be delivering that promise.”
More updates and service announcements are expected in the coming months as the project approaches full fleet delivery and further testing milestones.
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