Welcome to the Purple Line NOW Newsletter!

Dear Friends,

We’re kicking off this edition of Purple Line NOW News with a truly exciting announcement!

Mark your calendars: Our next Purple Line NOW Virtual Forum is happening on Tuesday, December 9, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. The event is titled “The Trains Are Rolling -- What Should We Know?!” and we believe it may be one of the most important forums we’ve ever hosted. Details are below, and your invitation and registration link will be arriving soon -- keep an eagle eye out!

As you scroll through this issue, don’t miss the thrilling video near the end -- those sleek new train cars are perched on the tracks and ready to roll!

You’ll also find a recap of highlights from the fall Community Advisory Team (CAT) meetings. If you missed them the first time around, this is a great chance to catch up. These presentations are packed with neighborhood-specific updates and are well worth a watch.

And there’s even more news to share:

• Dynamic testing is underway in College Park, with trains running nightly between Veterans Parkway and the College Park–UMD Station. Expect traffic impacts from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., with safety crews on site.
• Testing on the University of Maryland campus begins in January, with overnight runs from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. High-voltage lines are being energized. Please use caution near overhead wires.
• Jones Mill Road in Chevy Chase is temporarily closed through mid-November for utility relocations and underpass construction.
• Campus detours continue at UMD, including ADA-compliant pedestrian reroutes near Rossborough Lane.

We’re also thrilled to spotlight a special opportunity: Our Trailblazer Sponsorship. Thanks to a generous matching donor, the first $2,500 gift at the Trailblazer level will be doubled! Even better, our Trailblazer will open the December forum with a speaking slot and receive recognition across all our platforms. We’re deeply grateful for your consideration as we continue this work on a lean budget.

As always, your support powers every step of this journey, from forums and newsletters to problem-solving and advocacy. We’re thankful for each of you and the many ways you show up for this project.

So grab a warm drink, settle in, and enjoy this issue. The trains are rolling and together, we’re riding into a future of connection, sustainability, and community pride.

With gratitude,
The Purple Line NOW Team

Share This Newsletter

Please feel free to share this newsletter - no permission from us needed! You can always find a link to our newsletter on our Purple Line NOW website which makes it easy to share with your friends, neighbors, constituents, customers, and employees. 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT PLN?

The Trains Are Rolling -- What Should We Know?!
**Purple Line NOW Virtual Forum | Tuesday, December 9 at 7 pm - 8:30 pm**

After years of planning, advocating, and wondering if this day would ever come, we’re thrilled to announce: the trains are rolling! And that means it’s time for one of the most important Purple Line NOW forums we’ve ever hosted.

Join us virtually on Tuesday, December 9 at 7 pm – 8:30 pm for a deep dive into what’s next as the Purple Line enters full testing mode. This year’s forum, “The Trains Are Rolling -- What Should We Know?!” will cover everything from safety protocols to pedestrian and bike access, plans for trail openings, way-making to stations, and community readiness.

We’re delighted to welcome two key leaders to our panel:

• Ray Biggs II, Senior Project Director, Maryland Transit Administration
• Doran Bosso, Chief Executive Officer, Purple Line Transit Partners

They’ll be joined by representatives from both Prince George’s and Montgomery counties, offering a comprehensive look at what’s happening across the corridor.

The event is free and open to the public and press, but advance registration is required. Keep an eye on your inbox -- we’ll be sending out the official invitation in the coming days, complete with a link to reserve your virtual seat.

Have questions for our panelists? If you have specific questions about safety, testing, access, or anything else related to this phase of the project, please send them our way quickly to [email protected]. Early submissions help our panelists prepare thoughtful, detailed responses and ensure your concerns are addressed during the forum.

We know November and December is a busy time, but we hope you’ll carve out for this event with us. After all, this isn’t just another forum -- it’s a milestone! It’s surreal to think how far we’ve come since those early advocacy meetings, community gatherings, and “will-it-ever-happen?” moments. And now, here we are: the trains are rolling!

Let’s celebrate that progress together -- and get ready for what’s next!

Purple Line NOW Virtual Forum

Topic: The Trains Are Rolling -- What Should We Know?!
Date: Tuesday, December 9, 2025
Time: 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Location: Virtual (registration link coming soon!)

Trailblazer Spotlight: Important!

Thanks to a matching donor with a big heart (and impeccable timing), the first individual or business to step up at the $2,500 Trailblazer level will have their gift matched dollar for dollar. That means double the impact that will help us bring our December 9 forum to life! We are grateful to you, your organization, or your company for consideration of becoming a Trailblazer for our upcoming forum.

But wait, there’s more (and it’s good!):

Our Trailblazer will be invited to kick off our December Forum as our top donor, joining a vibrant mix of project leaders, county officials, and community champions for a lively conversation about the future of transit in our region.

Here’s what our Trailblazer will receive:

• A 2–3 minute speaking slot to open the event
• Logo or name featured on our event slide deck and registration page
• Recognition in our post-event newsletter and social media shoutouts

This is your chance to help us keep these forums free and accessible to the public and press -- just as they’ve always been. We’re proud of that tradition,  even as we navigate the realities of hosting meaningful events on a shoestring budget.

If you’ve been considering a bold step in support of transit advocacy, this is a powerful moment to act. Your gift will go directly toward making this forum possible and keeping it accessible to all.

Thank you for being the reason we can do this work.

Why Your Support Matters: With your help, Purple Line NOW can continue to advocate for this essential transit project that connects communities, reduces congestion, and promotes sustainable transportation. Your donation will directly support:

• Annual Community Forums: Engaging with key Purple Line and community leaders.
• Bi-weekly Newsletters: Keeping you informed with important updates and construction information.
• Community-wide Information Sharing: Through our quarterly board and monthly executive committee meetings.
• Connecting and Problem-Solving: Helping connect residents and workers with the right person on the project to solve problems or bring attention to an issue.

We appreciate the generous support of all of our donors at every level!

HAPPENING ALONG THE PURPLE LINE CORRIDOR

Fall Community Advisory Committee (CAT) Meetings Wrap Up

The fall CATs have wrapped up for 2025, but we encourage you to watch the presentations on their website! We've also included some highlights and achievements below!

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES & PROJECT FEATURES

Video: They Are Ready to Roll!

Twenty-six sleek Purple Line rail cars have officially landed in Maryland, lining up like eager students on the first day of school, awaiting their big test run with the final two rail cars joining the party by year’s end!

Cruising down Veterans Highway, hoping for a peek at a brand new Purple Line rail car and nearly had to catch our breath -- there they were, the whole squad, looking like they just stepped off a transit fashion runway! Wanna see the rail car runway show for yourself? Click the video link (courtesy of Executive Director, Christine Scott) and prepare to be dazzled!

Purple Line Progress: Fully Funded and Moving Forward!

If you haven’t had a chance to watch the presentation for your area, we highly recommend it! Each one is packed with updates specific to your neighborhood, and a great way to stay in the loop as we move closer to opening day.

Here’s what we’re celebrating this month:

• Project Funding and Construction Progress: As confirmed in both the Fall 2025 Progress Update and PGCEDC’s October 2025 report, the Purple Line is now fully funded and more than 80% complete, with track installation 100% complete in Prince George’s County and 75% complete in Montgomery County.
• Dynamic Testing and Station Construction: It was also reported that dynamic testing is underway, and crews are actively installing Overhead Catenary System (OCS) poles and completing station infrastructure.
• Long Branch Community Center and Barron Street Intersection: Also in the MDOT MTA October Newsletter, it was reported that the entrance to the Long Branch Community Center is now open, with a newly signalized intersection at Barron Street improving access.
• Spring Street Bridge Construction: Pile driving for the Spring Street Bridge in Silver Spring began in mid-October, marking a key infrastructure milestone. Details were provided by Source of the Spring.
• Food Forest in New Carrollton: Four parks in New Carrollton were revitalized through Purple Line grants, including the installation of a “food forest” at Veterans Park. Fresh produce is now available to the community. This initiative was covered by WTOP.
• Projected Opening Timeline: The Purple Line remains on track to complete construction by December 2026, with a full year of testing planned throughout 2027.

We know it’s been a long road, and we’re deeply grateful for your continued support, feedback, and patience!

STAY CONNECTED

Get Connected

Make sure you are signed up for timely alerts from Purple Line NOW via our Twitter and Facebook pages, and at our website Purple Line NOW.

Welcome to the Purple Line NOW Newsletter!

We’re so glad you’re here! This month’s edition is packed with exciting updates and a very special opportunity for one bold supporter to step into the spotlight. Thanks to a generous matching donor, the first Trailblazer-level sponsor at $2,500 will have their gift doubled and be honored as our top donor at the December Forum, complete with a speaking slot and recognition across our platforms. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to make a big impact, this is it!

We’re also celebrating major milestones on the Purple Line itself: full funding secured, dynamic testing underway, and construction progress surging ahead in both counties. From new infrastructure in Silver Spring to fresh produce in New Carrollton’s revitalized parks, the momentum is real -- and it’s local!

So grab a cup of something cozy and dive in. We’re grateful to have you with us on this journey toward a more connected future.

Share This Newsletter

Please feel free to share this newsletter - no permission from us needed! You can always find a link to our newsletter on our Purple Line NOW website which makes it easy to share with your friends, neighbors, constituents, customers, and employees. 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT PLN?

Trailblazer Level Opportunity!

We’re thrilled to share a special opportunity for one generous supporter! Thanks to a matching donor stepping up in a big way, the first donor (business or personal) to contribute at the $2,500 Trailblazer sponsor level will have their gift matched -- and their impact magnified!

Even better?! That donor will have the opportunity to kick off our event as our top donor at our upcoming December Forum, a dynamic gathering of project leaders, county officials, and community advocates focused on the future of transit in our region.

Here’s what our Trailblazer will receive:

• A featured speaking slot (2–3 minutes) to kick off the event
• Logo or name placement on the event slide deck and registration page
• Recognition in our post-event newsletter and social media

This is a chance to help us keep our forums free and open to the public and press -- just the way they have always been.

As a small organization with a big heart (and a very skinny budget), we rely on the generosity of supporters like you to make events like this possible and meaningful. Every dollar, every gift, every show of support counts.

If you’ve been thinking about making a bold move for transit advocacy, this is your moment. We are so grateful for your consideration!

Why Your Support Matters: With your help, Purple Line NOW can continue to advocate for this essential transit project that connects communities, reduces congestion, and promotes sustainable transportation. Your donation will directly support:

• Annual Community Forums: Engaging with key Purple Line and community leaders.
• Bi-weekly Newsletters: Keeping you informed with important updates and construction information.
• Community-wide Information Sharing: Through our quarterly board and monthly executive committee meetings.
• Connecting and Problem-Solving: Helping connect residents and workers with the right person on the project to solve problems or bring attention to an issue.

We appreciate the generous support of all of our donors at every level!

HAPPENING ALONG THE PURPLE LINE CORRIDOR

Fall Community Advisory Committee (CAT) Meetings Wrap Up

The fall CATs have wrapped up for 2025, but we encourage you to watch the presentations on their website! We've also included some highlights and achievements below!

In Case You Missed It!

News4 Transportation Reporter Adam Tuss took an exclusive ride on the Purple Line! 

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES & PROJECT FEATURES

Purple Line Progress: Fully Funded and Moving Forward!

October was a busy and energizing month for our Purple Line NOW Executive Committee -- we had the pleasure of attending many of the Community Advisory Team (CAT) meetings that were held along the corridor. These meetings are always a great way to connect with neighbors, hear what’s happening on the ground, and get a clearer picture of how the project is unfolding in each community.

If you haven’t had a chance to watch the presentation for your area, we highly recommend it! Each one is packed with updates specific to your neighborhood, and a great way to stay in the loop as we move closer to opening day.

Here’s what we’re celebrating this month:

• Project Funding and Construction Progress: As confirmed in both the Fall 2025 Progress Update and PGCEDC’s October 2025 report, the Purple Line is now fully funded and more than 80% complete, with track installation 100% complete in Prince George’s County and 75% complete in Montgomery County.
• Dynamic Testing and Station Construction: It was also reported that dynamic testing is underway, and crews are actively installing Overhead Catenary System (OCS) poles and completing station infrastructure.
• Long Branch Community Center and Barron Street Intersection: Also in the MDOT MTA October Newsletter, it was reported that the entrance to the Long Branch Community Center is now open, with a newly signalized intersection at Barron Street improving access.
• Spring Street Bridge Construction: Pile driving for the Spring Street Bridge in Silver Spring began in mid-October, marking a key infrastructure milestone. Details were provided by Source of the Spring.
• Food Forest in New Carrollton: Four parks in New Carrollton were revitalized through Purple Line grants, including the installation of a “food forest” at Veterans Park. Fresh produce is now available to the community. This initiative was covered by WTOP.
• Projected Opening Timeline: The Purple Line remains on track to complete construction by December 2026, with a full year of testing planned throughout 2027.

We know it’s been a long road, and we’re deeply grateful for your continued support, feedback, and patience!

Some Photos From Around the Corridor

Photo Courtesy of Ross Capon

Photo Courtesy of Webb Smedley

STAY CONNECTED

Get Connected

Make sure you are signed up for timely alerts from Purple Line NOW via our Twitter and Facebook pages, and at our website Purple Line NOW.

Hello, Purple Line NOW Friends!

Our latest Purple Line NOW newsletter just dropped below, and it’s packed with updates, insights, and a few surprises we think you’ll love. Whether you're tracking progress, curious about community impact, or just want to stay in the loop, our newsletter has something for everyone. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and let us catch you up on all things Purple Line!

We’re also hard at work planning our next virtual forum entitled "The Trains Are Rolling — What Should We Know?!" We will confirm the date soon, along with a reservation link so you can join us from wherever you are. We have decided to host the forum following the next round of Community Advisory Team meetings later this fall. Keep your eyes on the lookout!

As mentioned in our previous newsletter, we’re trying something new this time -- asking you to be part of the event as a sponsor for our upcoming forum! Whether it’s your name, your business, or your organization, we’ll give a warm shout-out during the event to recognize your support.

And hey, even if sponsoring isn’t your thing, our piggy bank’s looking a little light these days, so any contribution -- big or small -- would mean the world to Purple Line NOW. Details are below. Thanks for being in our corner!

Other ways you can help -- share our newsletter to your mailing lists or socials! We’re so glad you’re part of this journey. Happy reading!

In today's edition of Purple Line NOW News, here's what you'll find:

• What's Happening at PLN?
  • Help Us Keep the Conversation Going!
• Happening Along the Purple Line Corridor
  • Community Advisory Committee (CAT) Meetings to Resume
  • Purple Line Related Articles of Interest
  • Eastern Silver Spring Event You Might Be Interested In
• Construction Updates
  • Heads-up for Sligo Creek Parkway Travelers
  • Purple Line Progress Update: On Track!
  • Then and Now: A Decade of Determination!

Share This Newsletter

Please feel free to share this newsletter - no permission from us needed! You can always find a link to our newsletter on our Purple Line NOW website which makes it easy to share with your friends, neighbors, constituents, customers, and employees. 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT PLN?

Help Us Keep the Conversation Going!

We’re back with another lively, info-packed Purple Line NOW virtual forum and we’d love your help to make it happen!

As you may know, we’re a teeny-tiny team (one staff member and a whole lot of volunteer elbow grease!) We’re not backed by any company or foundation -- no gala dinners, no auctions, just community support and a whole lot of heart. What we *do* have is a passionate community, a commitment to transparency, and a bunch of love for this transit project that’s connecting neighborhoods and transforming lives.

Our forums are always free and open to all -- neighbors, press, transit nerds, and curious minds alike. But they are only possible thanks to generous folks like you. This time, we’re inviting our supporters to help sponsor the forum! It’s a fun and meaningful way to support our work and get a little recognition while you’re at it.

So if you’ve ever learned something new from our newsletter, found a solution through our outreach, or just believe in the power of public transit, we hope you will take a moment to consider a donation to Purple Line NOW! 

Here’s the scoop:

**$2,500 Trailblazer** Say a few words at the top of the event + top billing everywhere
**$1,000 Connector** Logo or name featured on slides, registration, and post-event shoutouts
**$500 Momentum Partner** Name on slides + newsletter and social media mentions
**$250 Neighbor Ally** Name on slides + newsletter thank-you
**$100 Community Builder** Group thank-you slide + newsletter mention
**$50 Forum Friend** Group thank-you slide + name in newsletter

Every single gift, large and small, helps us keep these forums free, informative, and welcoming. 

Why Your Support Matters: With your help, Purple Line NOW can continue to advocate for this essential transit project that connects communities, reduces congestion, and promotes sustainable transportation. Your donation will directly support:

• Annual Community Forums: Engaging with key Purple Line and community leaders.
• Bi-weekly Newsletters: Keeping you informed with important updates and construction information.
• Community-wide Information Sharing: Through our quarterly board and monthly executive committee meetings.
• Connecting and Problem-Solving: Helping connect residents and workers with the right person on the project to solve problems or bring attention to an issue.

We appreciate the generous support of all of our donors!

HAPPENING ALONG THE PURPLE LINE CORRIDOR

Community Advisory Committee (CAT) Meetings to Resume

Upcoming fall Community Advisory Team (CAT) meetings will begin Monday, September 29, offering community members a chance to hear directly from project leaders, ask questions, and see the latest progress:

Meetings will occur virtually between 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Specific dates for each CAT area are listed below.

Monday, September 29: Riverdale Park, New Carrollton, Glenridge
Tuesday, September 30: College Park
Tuesday, October 7: Long Branch
Wednesday, October 8: Bethesda / Chevy Chase
Thursday, October 9: University Boulevard
Tuesday, October 14: Lyttonsville / Woodside
Thursday, October 16: Silver Spring

Articles of Interest

The Purple Line: Why Aren’t We There Yet?
**By Louis Peck | Bethesda Magazine | September 18, 2025**

Despite nearly a decade of construction, the Purple Line light-rail project remains years behind schedule and billions over budget. This in-depth article traces the tangled history of delays, legal battles, and shifting partnerships that have plagued the 16.2-mile corridor from Bethesda to New Carrollton. With a projected opening now pushed to late 2027, the piece explores what went wrong and what is going well on this long-awaited transit line. [Read the full article]

MCDOT Plans Bike Lanes for Piney Branch Road
**By Elia Griffin | Bethesda Magazine | September 9, 2025**

Montgomery County’s Department of Transportation is moving forward with plans for separated bike lanes along Piney Branch Road, connecting key trails and improving pedestrian safety. With construction targeted for Fall 2026 and completion by Spring 2027, this project aims to complement the Purple Line rollout and enhance multimodal access in East Silver Spring and Long Branch. [Read the full article]

In Case You Missed It
**By Trains Are Us | YouTube | August 2025**

Several of you sent this YouTube video to us and we thought we'd share in case you missed it. 

Eastern Silver Spring Events You Might Be Interested In

As the Purple Line edges closer to reality, Montgomery Planning is ramping up efforts to shape the future of housing, public spaces, and connectivity along the eastern side of the corridor, especially near the future Manchester Place station.

The next upcoming event offers a chance for local voices to help guide how this vital infrastructure integrates into the community:

September 25: Open House Near Manchester Place Station, Highland View Elementary School, 9010 Providence Avenue, Drop in anytime between 7:00–9:00 p.m.

This open house is especially relevant to Purple Line NOW readers. Planning staff will present ideas and gather input on how the Manchester Place station can best serve the community through improved connections, housing opportunities, and local amenities. Register here (encouraged but not required)

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES & PROJECT FEATURES

Heads-up for Sligo Creek Parkway Travelers

Starting around September 22, 2025, Montgomery Parks will temporarily shut down the stretch of Sligo Creek Parkway between Piney Branch Road and Wayne Avenue for roughly two months. This closure supports ongoing work on the Maryland Transit Administration’s Purple Line light rail system.

Crews will be installing rail tracks and redesigning the intersection to accommodate the new transit line. At the same time, Montgomery Parks will tackle several infrastructure upgrades, including culvert replacements, improved signage, traffic calming measures, and guardrail fixes.

Getting around: Detour signs will guide both drivers and pedestrians safely around the construction zones. The Sligo Creek Trail will stay open, but visitors are encouraged to stay alert and follow posted detours. For the latest updates and full details, check out the official construction page.

Purple Line Progress Update: On Track!

The Purple Line continues to make impressive strides, with the project now more than 80% complete. As of this month, 65% of the track has been installed across the corridor, including a major milestone: 100% of the track is now in place in Prince George’s County! This achievement marks a significant step toward bringing reliable, east-west transit to our communities.

We’re thrilled to share a recent photo from Jerry Withers capturing visible progress at the Silver Spring Transit Center!

Then and Now: A Decade of Determination!

Nearly ten years ago, Purple Line NOW rallied elected officials and community leaders for a press conference inside the future tunnel at the Silver Spring library stop -- calling out costly delays and urging swift legal action after a judge halted the project. Just weeks later, the decision was overturned, reigniting momentum.

Today, tracks are finally being laid in that very spot. The recent photo, captured by Webb Smedley, stands as a powerful testament to persistence, partnership, and progress.

STAY CONNECTED

Get Connected

Make sure you are signed up for timely alerts from Purple Line NOW via our Twitter and Facebook pages, and at our website Purple Line NOW.

Hello, Purple Line NOW Friends!

Hello and welcome to this edition of Purple Line NOW News! Whether you’ve been with us for a while or catching up after a short pause, we are so glad you’re here. As the Purple Line continues to take shape across our communities, we’re bringing you the latest updates and insights from the heart of the corridor. So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let us walk you through what’s happening in and around the construction zone including progress, challenges, and moments that remind us why this project matters.

We’re also hard at work planning our next virtual forum entitled "The Trains Are Rolling — What Should We Know?!" We will confirm the date soon, along with a reservation link so you can join us from wherever you are. Keep your eyes on the lookout!

And for the first time ever, we’re inviting our readers to consider becoming an event sponsor for the forum. Whether it’s your name, your company, or your organization, sponsors will be recognized during the presentation as a valued part of making this event possible. More information is below -- we hope you’ll consider lending your support!

In today's edition of Purple Line NOW News, here's what you'll find:

• What's Happening at PLN?
  • Become An Event Sponsor!
• Happening Along the Purple Line Corridor
  • Community Advisory Committee (CAT) Meetings to Resume
  • Supporting Local Business Near Metro Lines
  • Eastern Silver Spring Events You Might Be Interested In
  • Mpact Innovators Coffee Chat
• Construction Updates
  • Expanded Dynamic Testing Update
  • Purple Line Construction Updates
  • In Case You Missed It
  • Safety First!

Share This Newsletter

Please feel free to share this newsletter - no permission from us needed! You can always find a link to our newsletter on our Purple Line NOW website which makes it easy to share with your friends, neighbors, constituents, customers, and employees. 

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT PLN?

Become an Event Sponsor!

As we mentioned in our last newsletter, we are thrilled to share a brand-new way to champion the mission of Purple Line NOW: become a sponsor of our upcoming virtual forum!

This exciting event brings together key voices including project leaders and local officials for a lively and forward-thinking conversation about the Purple Line’s future. As a small but mighty organization, we count on the kindness and commitment of supporters like you to help us make these forums not just possible, but informational and helpful.

Our forums are always free and open to everyone -- community members, press, and curious minds alike.

We’ve created a range of sponsorship levels to make it easy for anyone to contribute, no matter the size of the gift. Every donation helps us build a welcoming space for learning, sharing, and progress. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or are just discovering Purple Line NOW, we’d love to have you on board.

All sponsors will be recognized during the live event, featured on our website, and included in any materials we share. And for our leading sponsor, we’re offering a special moment to kick off the forum with a few words of encouragement and community spirit.

Suggested Sponsorship Levels

We are deeply grateful for your consideration and support. All sponsorships of any size are appreciated and welcomed.

Why Your Support Matters: With your help, Purple Line NOW can continue to advocate for this essential transit project that connects communities, reduces congestion, and promotes sustainable transportation. Your donation will directly support:

• Annual Community Forums: Engaging with key Purple Line and community leaders.
• Bi-weekly Newsletters: Keeping you informed with important updates and construction information.
• Community-wide Information Sharing: Through our quarterly board and monthly executive committee meetings.
• Connecting and Problem-Solving: Helping connect residents and workers with the right person on the project to solve problems or bring attention to an issue.

We appreciate the generous support of all of our donors!

HAPPENING ALONG THE PURPLE LINE CORRIDOR

Community Advisory Committee (CAT) Meetings to Resume

Upcoming fall Community Advisory Team (CAT) meetings will begin Monday, September 29, offering community members a chance to hear directly from project leaders, ask questions, and see the latest progress. You can find more information here.

Community Event Spotlight: Supporting Local Business Near Metro Lines

We want to share an upcoming event hosted by the Action Committee for Transit (ACT) that may be of interest to our readers:

ACT September Meeting

Topic: Supporting Local Business Near Metro Lines
Speaker: David Schneider, Silver Spring resident, local activist, and co-creator of the MetroMatch platform
Date & Time: Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 7:30 PM
Location: Silver Spring Civic Building, 1 Veterans Plaza, Silver Spring, MD

Join David Schneider as he shares insights from his visits to every business on Bonifant Street and introduces MetroMatch -- a platform he developed with fellow transit advocate Valerie Berton to help connect Metro riders with nearby local businesses.

Eastern Silver Spring Events You Might Be Interested In

As the Purple Line edges closer to reality, Montgomery Planning is ramping up efforts to shape the future of housing, public spaces, and connectivity along the eastern side of the corridor, especially near the future Manchester Place station.

Two upcoming events offer a chance for local voices to help guide how this vital infrastructure integrates into the community:

September 4: Faith-Based Community Conversation, Long Branch Community Center, 8700 Piney Branch Road, 6:00 p.m.

Faith-based organizations are invited to share perspectives on housing, equity, sustainability, and neighborhood growth. This is a unique opportunity to ensure spiritual and cultural anchors are part of the planning vision. Register here (encouraged but not required)

September 25: Open House Near Manchester Place Station, Highland View Elementary School, 9010 Providence Avenue, Drop in anytime between 7:00–9:00 p.m.

This open house is especially relevant to Purple Line NOW readers. Planning staff will present ideas and gather input on how the Manchester Place station can best serve the community through improved connections, housing opportunities, and local amenities. Register here (encouraged but not required)

Mpact Innovators Coffee Chat: Public Engagement – Sept 12

The next Mpact Innovators Coffee Chat on Friday, September 12, from 10–11am Central, offers a dive into the topic of Public Engagement. These informal chats are a chance to connect with peers across the transit, land use, and development world -- no presentations, just real conversation. Bring your coffee (or favorite beverage), turn on your camera, and join the dialogue. All experience levels welcome!

Hosted by: Christina Gotuaco Philip, Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority. Click here to register.

Brought to you by the Mpact Innovators (formerly Rail~Volution) a national network supporting emerging leaders in mobility and development.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES & PROJECT FEATURES

Expanded Dynamic Testing Update

The Purple Line light rail project is currently over 80% (!!) complete, marking a significant milestone as the project moves into the testing phase. This 16-mile line will connect Bethesda in Montgomery County to New Carrollton in Prince George's County and is scheduled to open in December 2027. The focus has shifted from construction to dynamic testing to ensure the safe and efficient operation of light rail vehicles before public service begins. 

In their recent newsletter, the MTA team put together a Q&A regarding what is happening along the alignment in terms of testing that we thought you might be interested in:

Dynamic testing of Purple Line Light Rail Vehicles (LRVs) is expanding to a new section of track soon. Purple Line Transit Operators (PLTO), the group that will operate and maintain the Light Rail System, gave an update on the testing process, which will soon take place from our Glenridge Operations and Maintenance Facility (OMF) to New Carrollton at the eastern end of the alignment.

Question: Other than the LRVs, what components of the system are being tested in the next phase of dynamic testing?

Answer: During the expanded dynamic testing phase, the project team is evaluating more than just the trains. Six key components of the track system are being tested, including different types of track used on streets, bridges and tunnels; the switches that allow trains to move smoothly between tracks; the alignment of the track; the electrical systems that keep trains running safely; and the communications systems that connect operators to the control center. These tests make sure the entire system is safe, reliable, and ready for passengers when service begins.

Q: How is the next phase of testing different from the first phase on the test track?

A: The initial testing phase focused on qualification of the LRVs, including acceleration and braking, while expanded dynamic testing will evaluate the integration between the LRVs and other key systems. During expanded dynamic testing, LRVs will operate on the two-mile eastern end of the alignment. Testing is planned from the Operations and Maintenance Facility (OMF) on Veterans Parkway, across Annapolis Road, continuing along Veterans Parkway, and onto Ellin Road towards New Carrollton. The Maintenance of Traffic will be overseen by MTS, with traffic held at each point where the LRV crosses the roadway to allow for uninterrupted, safe testing. The operators are trained to be alert for anyone or anything that may impede the operation of the LRV and to be ready to act accordingly.

Q: How are you keeping safety in mind as testing expands?

A: Safety is always the top priority. Project staff are trained on rail safety using extensive classroom and field training. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) provide clear, consistent guidelines that support safe and reliable operations. PLTO’s Director of Rail Operations ensures trains move according to proper procedures.

Q: How can the public do their part to keep themselves and others safe?

A: Drivers should always avoid distractions and focus on driving safely around a work zone. Vehicles should drive across tracks at designated crossings and follow all traffic signals and flaggers. Pedestrians and bicyclists should always use crosswalks and obey signage when crossing roads and tracks. Everyone should always stay alert, keep their phone away, headphones off and eyes up.

Purple Line Construction Updates

The Maryland Purple Line continues to shape the future of transit across Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties, bringing new connections and revitalized infrastructure to communities along its 16-mile route. As construction continues, residents and commuters are seeing both exciting milestones and temporary disruptions. Here’s a quick roundup to help keep you in the loop:

• Fenton Street & Wayne Avenue Intersection (Silver Spring): After a summer-long closure for track installation and stormwater upgrades, this key intersection is expected to reopen shortly after September 8. The delay from August was due to unexpected utility conflicts.
• Spring Street Bridge Reconstruction (Silver Spring): Work continues on relocating overhead utilities in coordination with CSX, MARC, and Metro. The bridge is slated to reopen by the end of 2025.
• Bethesda Headhouse Excavation: Crews are actively excavating the shaft that will connect the Purple Line to Metro’s Red Line. Work may occur 24/7 through August and September, with noise mitigation measures in place during nighttime hours.
• University of Maryland Campus Closures:
  • Rossborough Lane: Closed west of Baltimore Avenue and east to Diamondback Drive. ADA-compliant pedestrian detours are in place.
  • Campus Drive & University Boulevard: Periodic lane closures through October between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Flaggers will maintain traffic flow.
  • River Road & Haig Drive: New traffic signals activated in late August to improve safety near the Division of IT building.

As the Purple Line edges closer to its anticipated launch in winter 2027, these updates reflect the complex choreography of building a modern transit system in densely populated areas. Whether you're navigating detours or watching the transformation unfold, the journey toward a more connected Maryland is well underway.

In Case You Missed It

What is happening with the Spring Street Bridge and Bethesda Purple Line station? A Q&A with the Purple Line’s Senior Project Director Ray Biggs II.

Safety First!

MDOT highlights the Purple Line’s Ride Safe campaign, reminding everyone to “Be particular. Ride perpendicular!” when crossing tracks to avoid accidents.

We want to remind everyone to slow down when driving through construction zones. The road may be bumpy so heed all speed limits and keep an eagle eye out for those hard-working construction workers!

As trains begin testing on tracks and traffic continues to be detoured due to ongoing construction, it is important to be more aware than ever when on foot or bike! 

When crossing Purple Line tracks:

• Use crosswalks.
• Cross at a right angle, perpendicular to the tracks.
• Do not ride parallel in the trackway – tires will get caught.
• Use extra caution when wet or frozen – rail can be slippery.

We'll have more safety tips in future newsletters, but please be careful and exercise caution as you navigate these new surroundings!

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