A Warm Welcome to Our October Newsletter

We are so glad you’re here with us for another edition of the Purple Line NOW Newsletter. There is a lot happening along the corridor this month and we’ve gathered updates we hope will keep you informed and encouraged as the project continues to move forward.

In this issue, you’ll find news about the proposed sidewalk legislation that could make it easier and faster for Montgomery County to build the safe walking connections so many neighborhoods have been waiting for. We also share details about the Beyond the Rails grants, which continue to grow in reach and impact, and for which Purple Line NOW will be applying this fall.

You’ll read about real progress on the Spring Street Bridge in Silver Spring, a look back at the lawsuit that once slowed the Purple Line’s timeline, and the latest schedule updates shared during recent county briefings. We also have fresh highlights from the Community Advisory Team meetings including a link in case you missed yours.

And of course, we are excited to preview our upcoming Purple Line NOW Forum, planned for the first week of December. These gatherings are free, open to all, and always richer because you join us.

Thank you for being part of this community. Your interest, your support, and your steady engagement make all the difference. We hope you enjoy the updates below and stay with us as we continue this journey together.

Warmly,
Purple Line NOW

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING!

Keeping This Work Going

As we wrap up another busy season of updates, forums, and community conversations, we want to take a moment to thank you. Truly. This newsletter reaches thousands of readers because you continue to show up, stay engaged, and care about the future of the Purple Line.

If you are able, we hope you will consider supporting Purple Line NOW as we continue this work. We are running a bit lean this year and your contribution helps us keep the newsletter free, the forums open to everyone, and the steady flow of reliable information moving. Every gift, large or small, makes a real difference.

Whether you can give or simply cheer us on, please know how grateful we are for you. This community is the heart of Purple Line NOW and we are honored to do this work alongside you.

If you can pitch in, you can donate here: https://www.purplelinenow.com/donate or by clicking the donate button below.

 

 

Purple Line NOW Forum Coming in Early December

We are excited to share that planning for our next Purple Line NOW Forum is well underway and we are closing in on a date in the first week of December. We expect to finalize the exact day and send out a formal invitation very soon, but we wanted to give you a preview of what this session will cover so you can start thinking about joining us.

This upcoming forum will focus on Operations, a topic many of you have been eager to hear more about as construction winds down and testing continues to expand. With trains running more frequently along the alignment and station work nearing completion, we know folks have lots of questions about what riding the Purple Line will actually be like once the doors open.

We are shaping the conversation around the kinds of questions we hear most often from the community. These include how transfers will work between Metro, MARC, Amtrak, and Ride On, what riders can expect in terms of service frequency, and how fares will be structured. We will also explore safety, accessibility, and wayfinding, including what the system will look and feel like for people who are new to light rail or who rely on clear signage and predictable station layouts.

Another important topic will be how bikes and e‑scooters will be accommodated on trains and at stations, as well as updates on the Capital Crescent Trail and other pedestrian and bicycle connections that will help make the Purple Line a seamless part of the region’s transportation network. And because we are entering the most complex phase of the project, we will spend time on what testing looks like, what milestones are coming up, and how the project team prepares for opening day.

As always, our forums are free of charge and open to the public and the media, though preregistration will be required so we can plan for attendance. These gatherings are one of the ways we bring the community together to hear directly from the people doing the work, and they are always richer because you join us.

We will share the official date and registration link in the next week or so. We hope you will plan to be with us in December for what promises to be an informative and engaging conversation.

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

 

Community Advisory Teams Wrap Up

The Purple Line team and MTA hosted seven virtual Community Advisory Team meetings this month, offering neighborhood‑specific updates on construction progress, station finishing, and the expansion of light‑rail vehicle testing. Officials reiterated that construction is more than 92 percent complete and testing will continue to expand across the full 16‑mile alignment. The Capital Crescent Trail, which will connect directly with the Purple Line in Bethesda, is now 74 percent complete. One segment, from Elm Street to Connecticut Avenue, is expected to open by spring 2027.

These sessions are one of the best ways to stay informed about what’s happening in your part of the corridor. Fear not if you missed yours as all presentations are posted on their website shortly after the meetings are held. 

Spring Street Bridge Construction Nears Finish Line

There is finally encouraging movement on the long‑running Spring Street Bridge project in downtown Silver Spring. According to recent reporting from Source of the Spring, the bridge is now in its final phase of construction, with crews completing structural work, roadway tie‑ins, and the last pieces needed before reopening this important east‑west connection.

In addition to the visible progress on the ground, the project has entered the behind‑the‑scenes stage that often takes time but signals real momentum. The bridge is now in its final check‑off process with the state, after which it will be transferred to Montgomery County for safety approvals. No reopening date has been given yet, but this step is a strong indicator that the end is truly in sight.

The closure has been a challenge for many neighbors, especially as timelines shifted and construction stretched far longer than anyone hoped. Once reopened, the bridge will restore a key link for drivers, walkers, and cyclists and help ease circulation issues that have cropped up during the closure.

We will continue to keep an eye on this one and share updates as soon as a reopening date becomes available.

Beyond the Rails Grants Application Cycle is Open

Purple Line Transit Partners (PLTP) has opened the fall application cycle for its Beyond the Rails Grant Program and this year’s round comes with expanded award levels and a continued commitment to strengthening neighborhoods all along the Purple Line corridor. Since the program began in 2023, PLTP has awarded more than $130,000 to community groups working on everything from youth programs to environmental projects to food and rent assistance. These grants have become a meaningful source of support for organizations that make our communities more connected, welcoming, and resilient.

This fall, grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, with applications due November 30. PLTP now awards sixteen grants each year, eight in the summer and eight in the winter, and aims to distribute them evenly between Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. Eligible applicants must be community groups or organizations and the proposed project should benefit a neighborhood adjacent to the Purple Line corridor.

Purple Line NOW will be applying this cycle as we continue to seek stable funding for our newsletters and our annual public forums. While we are navigating a fundraising shortfall, our work remains strong and well aligned with the goals of this program. We want to make sure other organizations have the chance to benefit, too, so we are helping to spread the word. You can find full details, eligibility guidelines, and the application portal here: https://www.purplelinemd.com/beyond-the-rails-grant-program/

County Bill 51‑26 Would Speed Up Sidewalk Construction Across Montgomery County

Montgomery County is taking a fresh look at how we build sidewalks, and for many of us who follow pedestrian safety and Purple Line connectivity, the proposed changes feel long overdue. A new bill introduced by Councilmember Evan Glass, with support from all eleven councilmembers, aims to make it easier for the county to move forward on basic sidewalk projects, especially in places where the need is clear and the impacts on private property are minimal.

Right now, getting a sidewalk built can be surprisingly complicated. In many cases, the county must hold a formal public hearing unless a majority of nearby property owners sign a petition to waive it. That majority threshold has often stalled projects, even when the sidewalk sits entirely within existing public right‑of‑way. As Glass put it, the current setup allows half a neighborhood to block a safety improvement that the other half may very much need.

The new bill would lower that petition requirement to 25 percent. It would also allow the county to skip a hearing altogether if the project does not require using private property, does not impair access, and does not trigger any special assessments. In other words, if the sidewalk can be built within the public space that already exists, the county could move ahead more quickly.

The push comes at a time when pedestrian crashes are rising. Montgomery County has already seen more pedestrian fatalities this year than last, and advocates have been vocal about the need for safer walking routes. Sidewalk supporters note that it should not be a question on most streets whether people have a safe, comfortable place to walk. Yet as we have seen in several neighborhoods, sidewalk proposals can stir up strong feelings. Concerns about trees, changes to the look of a street, or fears of increased foot traffic often surface, and sometimes neighbors find themselves on opposite sides of the issue.

Even so, the county’s Vision Zero team continues to emphasize that sidewalks save lives. They create predictable space for people walking, reduce conflicts with vehicles, and encourage more short trips by foot or bike. For communities around Purple Line stations, these improvements are especially important. A connected sidewalk network is part of how we make transit accessible for everyone.

The Planning Board staff reviewed the bill and recommended sending a letter of support to the Council. They noted that the legislation aligns with Thrive Montgomery 2050, advances Vision Zero goals, and directly supports the 2023 Pedestrian Master Plan. That plan calls for rethinking public engagement so that residents can share their perspectives without unintentionally delaying projects that improve safety and connectivity.

The Council will hold a public hearing on November 10. We will keep you posted as the bill moves forward, but for now, it is encouraging to see broad support for a more streamlined, safety‑focused approach to building the sidewalks our communities need.

Further reading: https://www.thebanner.com/montgomery-county/montgomery-county-sidewalk-construction-plans-7X5KHK32T5DM7OJECJ25O7S2QU/?bis

Purple Line Opening Date Remains Dynamic

Maryland Matters recently shared an update on the Purple Line’s timeline through a story originally reported by Kate Ryan of WTOP News and it offers a helpful snapshot of where things stand as the project moves toward operations.

During a briefing before the Montgomery County Council’s Transportation and Environment Committee, the Maryland Transit Administration explained that the Purple Line’s opening date remains “dynamic.” Instead of setting a firm calendar date, the agency is tying the timeline to construction progress and the many testing milestones that must be completed before passenger service can begin. These include finishing station work, integrating the rail and power systems, and running trains through the full alignment to ensure everything performs safely and reliably.

Ryan’s reporting notes that the project team continues to make steady progress, even as the final phases of construction and testing can reveal issues that take time to resolve. Weather, contractor coordination, and the complexity of systems integration all play a role in how quickly the project can move through this stage. MTA reiterated that they will announce a firm opening date only when they are confident the schedule can be met.

For those who have followed the Purple Line through many twists and turns, this cautious approach reflects lessons learned and a commitment to opening the line smoothly and safely. We will continue to keep you updated as more information becomes available and as the project moves closer to welcoming riders.

You can read the full article here: Maryland Matters, via reporting by Kate Ryan of WTOP News

A Look Back at the Lawsuit That Delayed the Purple Line

In a recent piece for The Argument, journalist Jerusalem Demsas revisits the lawsuit that once paused Purple Line construction and added time and cost to the project. For many who followed the Purple Line through those years, it is a reminder of a difficult chapter that the region has since worked hard to move past.

The case centered on whether Metro’s ridership decline should trigger a new environmental review under NEPA. Although the courts ultimately allowed the project to move forward, the pause created real delays and forced the construction team to restart work that had already been underway.

What stands out in Demsas’s retelling is the steady support from environmental organizations in our region. These groups, many of whom are long‑time partners in our coalition, recognized the importance of the Purple Line and stood firm throughout the process. Their support helped keep momentum alive until the legal issues were resolved.

The article also notes how the pause affected the project’s timeline, from station work to track installation. Even so, the Purple Line has made significant progress since then, and the project is now moving steadily toward opening day.

If you would like to read Demsas’s full piece, you can find it here: https://www.theargumentmag.com/p/you-dont-need-to-hate-people-to-save

As we look ahead, it is helpful to remember how far the project has come and how many partners have helped keep it on track.

Photos from Around the Corridor

 

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

 

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

 

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

 

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

STAY CONNECTED

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. 

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 This Edition of Purple Line NOW News

Hello friends and welcome back!  As we slide into early fall and the mornings start feeling just a little crisper, the Purple Line corridor is buzzing with activity. In this issue, you’ll find updates on the Spring Street Bridge, a reader‑reported update from the Capital Crescent Trail near Talbot Street, some news out of College Park as testing ramps up, a reminder about the upcoming CAT meetings, a quick highlight from a terrific smart‑growth conference several of our board members attended, and a gentle note about our ongoing fundraising needs. We also remember our long time board member, John Robinson.

Grab something warm to sip and settle in. Lots to catch up!

Warmly,
Purple Line NOW

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING!

A Heartfelt Request for Support Through a Thin Stretch

As we mentioned in our last edition of the Purple Line NOW News, this time of year is always lean for us, and without corporate sponsors or grant funding to rely on, every bit of support from our community matters.

Many of you have stepped up over the past few weeks and we are truly grateful. Your generosity helps keep our newsletters coming, our website running, and our outreach tools humming along. You make it possible for us to stay present and consistent during a time when reliable Purple Line information is more important than ever.

Even so, we’re still short of what we need to comfortably cover the basics until our fall and winter fundraising season begins. If you’re able to help us bridge this stretch, your donation will go directly toward keeping our work steady and uninterrupted. Whether it’s a small gift or something larger, it genuinely makes a difference.

And if you’ve already given, thank you! Your support keeps us moving forward.

If you can pitch in, you can donate here: https://www.purplelinenow.com/donate or by clicking the donate button below.

Thank you, truly, for helping us stay afloat during this thin stretch and for standing with us as we continue this work for the corridor and the communities we all care about.

With Gratitude to Our Generous Donors

We are deeply grateful for the support of everyone who helps keep Purple Line NOW strong. Your contributions make our work possible, and we appreciate you more than we can say.

Presenting Donors

The Sanders‑Malloy Family

Featured Donors

Maryland Department of Transportation
Tina, Don, and Jessie Slater

Supporters

Elizabeth Barbehenn
Nancy and Rob Soreng

Engineers

Isiah Leggett
Ben Ross

Conductors

Anne Ambler & John Fay
Posey Eitzen
Jodie Kulpa‑Eddy
John Robinson
Christine Scott and JohnR Llewellyn

Commuters

Gus Bauman
Ralph Bennett
Mike DeLong
Elaine Emling & Michael Jenner
Peter Gray
Drs. Troy Jacobs & Kawsar Talaat
Gerrit Knaap
Francine Meyer
Kathy Porter
Tom Quinn
Webb Smedley
Leslie Taylor
John Undeland

Passengers

Alan Banov
Louise & Ross Capon
John Carroll
Margaret Chasson
Patrick Dougherty
William & Kay Gilcher
Michael Larkin
Jay Miller
Judith Morenoff
James Riley
Michael Volk
William Young

Fall CAT Meetings: Coming Soon!

It’s that time again. The Fall 2026 Community Advisory Team (CAT) meetings are right around the corner and these sessions are one of the best ways to stay informed about what’s happening in your part of the corridor.

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

Here’s the schedule for this round of meetings:

• University Boulevard CAT Tuesday, October 13, 6:00 p.m.
• Silver Spring CAT Thursday, October 15, 6:00 p.m.
• Bethesda/Chevy Chase CAT Monday, October 19, 6:00 p.m.
• College Park CAT Wednesday, October 21, 6:00 p.m.
• Riverdale Park CAT Monday, October 26, 6:00 p.m.
• Long Branch CAT Tuesday, October 27, 6:00 p.m.
• New Carrollton CAT Wednesday, October 28, 6:00 p.m.

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

All meetings are virtual and open to the public. If you haven’t attended one before, they’re friendly, informative, and a great way to hear directly from the project team. You can find links and details at purplelinemd.com.

Spring Street Bridge: Still a Work Zone

If you’ve been anywhere near the Spring Street Bridge in Silver Spring lately, you already know the drill. Construction crews are still hard at work on structural elements, utilities, and roadway reconstruction. The bridge has been one of the more stubborn pieces of the puzzle, and after reaching out to county officials, we can report that crews are continuing their work, with paving yet to do. There’s no firm reopening date just yet, but we’ll keep watching this one closely and share updates as soon as they come our way.

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

More on Purple Line construction updates: https://purplelinemd.com/construction

Capital Crescent Trail Near Talbot Steet Remains Under Construction

The trail segment from the Talbot Street bridge toward the Silver Spring Metro connection with the Metropolitan Branch Trail is still very much a construction zone. We hope to hear more about the progress of the trail (and all its segments!) at the upcoming CAT meetings (see above.)

Trail reconstruction in this area is tied to station work, utility relocation, and all the complicated choreography happening because of it.

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

If you’re passing through, give yourself a little extra time. And if you spot anything new, feel free to send us a note. We love hearing from you.

Affordable Connected Communities Conference

Several members of our Purple Line NOW Board of Directors recently attended the Affordable Connected Communities conference hosted by the University of Maryland’s National Center for Smart Growth. It was a terrific gathering of planners, advocates, researchers, and community leaders who are all thinking deeply about how to build places that are equitable, connected, and sustainable.

If you’d like to explore the conference materials, presentations, or follow‑up resources, you can visit their website here: https://www.umdsmartgrowth.org/affordable-connected-communities-2026/

Lots of good ideas and inspiration came out of this one.

Remembering John Robinson

We also want to take a moment to acknowledge the passing of John Mark Robinson, who served on the Purple Line NOW Board for many years and continued to support our work as a donor. John passed away in April, and although we learned of his death only recently, we didn’t want this edition to go by without recognizing his contributions.

John spent much of his life in public service, working in both federal and local government, and brought that same steady commitment to his time with Purple Line NOW. He was married to his wife Patricia for more than four decades and was a devoted father and grandfather. Those who knew him remember a thoughtful, community‑minded person who believed in the value of projects that strengthen and connect neighborhoods.

We are grateful for the part he played in our organization and extend our sincere condolences to his family.

STAY CONNECTED

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. 

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 Friends,

We missed you during our short August break, but we’re back, energized, and excited for all that fall has in store! As we ease out of summer and step into the gentler rhythms of the season, we’re delighted to bring you another issue of the Purple Line NOW News. There’s a lot happening along the corridor right now, and this edition is full of updates, community news, and a few events flagged for your interest.

Before we dive in, we also want to mention that Purple Line NOW is in one of our thinner stretches of the year. Our annual fundraising season begins later this fall, but until then, we’re relying on the generosity of friends like you to help us bridge the gap. If you’re able to lend a hand, even modestly, it truly keeps us going.

Below, you’ll find the full lineup for the Fall 2026 Community Advisory Team meetings, all happening virtually and all designed to keep you informed about construction progress, testing, outreach, and what’s ahead as we move closer to opening day. We’ve also got a look at the Spring Street Bridge work, where things are shaping up for an opening that will make a big difference for walkers, cyclists, and future Purple Line riders.

You’ll read about where live wire and LRV testing is happening right now, plus a combined update on leadership changes at MDOT MTA, including a note on Holly Arnold’s farewell message and a highlight of Tony Bridges’ introduction message, as well.

We’re also flagging an important community event at the University of Maryland focused on affordable and connected communities. If you care about safer walking, biking, rolling, and better access to transit stops, this one is for you.

And finally, we share warm wishes for Councilmember Will Jawando as he recovers from a recent health scare. His office has released a message to the community and we wanted to make sure you saw it and could join us in sending support.

Purple Line NOW is also hard at work planning our next public forum -- this one focused on Operations -- which we expect to host sometime this fall. Stay tuned for details.

So grab a cup of something cozy, settle in, and enjoy this issue. As always, we’re grateful you’re here and grateful for your continued interest in the Purple Line and the communities it connects.

Warmly,
Purple Line NOW

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING!

A Heartfelt Request for Support Through a Thin Stretch

As many of you know, Purple Line NOW operates on a very lean budget. We do not receive corporate underwriting, government grants, or annual dues. What keeps this work going is you -- neighbors, supporters, and friends who believe in transparency, community engagement, and having a reliable place to turn for Purple Line news.

Later this year, we will head into our fall and winter fundraising season, but right now we are in one of our thinnest stretches of the year. At our late August Executive Committee meeting, our treasurer shared that our balance had dipped below $1,000. That is a tough number when regular expenses like website management, staff time, and outreach tools come due. We always make every dollar count, but this is one of those moments when we truly feel the pinch.

If you are able to help bridge this short period before our annual campaign begins, we would be deeply grateful. Even modest gifts make a real difference in keeping our newsletters consistent, our public forums free, and our advocacy strong. And if now is not the right time for you, please know that we appreciate you just as much. Your engagement and support in all its forms matter.

We are always humbled by the generosity of our donors, listed below, and we never take it for granted. You keep this work moving forward, and we are so thankful.

If you feel inspired to give, you can do so here: https://www.purplelinenow.com/donate or by clicking the donate button below.

Thank you, truly, for helping us stay afloat during this thin stretch and for standing with us as we continue this work for the corridor and the communities we all care about.

With Gratitude to Our Generous Donors

We are deeply grateful for the support of everyone who helps keep Purple Line NOW strong. Your contributions make our work possible, and we appreciate you more than we can say.

Presenting Donors

The Sanders‑Malloy Family

Featured Donors

Maryland Department of Transportation
Tina, Don, and Jessie Slater

Supporters

Elizabeth Barbehenn
Nancy and Rob Soreng

Engineers

Isiah Leggett
Ben Ross

Conductors

Anne Ambler & John Fay
Posey Eitzen
Jodie Kulpa‑Eddy
John Robinson
Christine Scott and JohnR Llewellyn

Commuters

Gus Bauman
Ralph Bennett
Mike DeLong
Elaine Emling & Michael Jenner
Peter Gray
Drs. Troy Jacobs & Kawsar Talaat
Gerrit Knaap
Francine Meyer
Kathy Porter
Tom Quinn
Webb Smedley
John Undeland

Passengers

Louise & Ross Capon
John Carroll
Margaret Chasson
Patrick Dougherty
William & Kay Gilcher
Michael Larkin
Jay Miller
Judith Morenoff
James Riley
Michael Volk
William Young

Fall 2026 CAT Meetings Are Just Around the Corner!

As summer winds down and fall starts peeking around the corner, it’s time for the second series of Purple Line Community Advisory Team (CAT) Meetings for 2026. These meetings happen twice a year and are one of the very best ways for neighbors to hear directly from the Purple Line team -- what’s happening now, what’s coming next, and how all the pieces fit together as we inch closer to opening day.

Each CAT focuses on a specific segment of the corridor and the conversations are always lively, informative, and full of great questions. If you’ve ever wondered about construction updates, upcoming work, testing and safety, outreach efforts, or just want to get a sense of how things are progressing in your neck of the woods, this is your moment.

All fall 2026 CAT Meetings will be held virtually from 6:00–7:30 p.m. The links will be posted on the Purple Line events page, so keep an eye out. The Outreach team will also send their usual reminders along with an invitation to pre-submit your questions. (A lifesaver for those of us who think of our best questions at 2 am!)

As always, please feel free to share these dates with your friends, neighbors, colleagues, community groups -- anyone who might be curious about the Purple Line or has questions they’d like answered. The more voices in the room, the better.

Fall 2026 CAT Meeting Schedule

Tuesday, October 13: Lyttonsville / Woodside (MC)
Thursday, October 15: College Park (PG)
Tuesday, October 20: University Boulevard (PG)
Wednesday, October 21: Long Branch (MC)
Thursday, October 22: Silver Spring (MC)
Tuesday, October 27: Riverdale Park / New Carrollton / Glenridge (PG)
Wednesday, October 28: Bethesda / Chevy Chase (MC)

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

Spring Street Bridge: A Peek at What's Ahead

If you’ve driven, walked, or biked anywhere near Spring Street lately, you’ve probably noticed the steady progress on the bridge work. The county and project team have been signaling that the Spring Street Bridge is on track for opening soon, and while they haven’t pinned down a public date yet, the finishing touches are clearly underway.

The bridge is a key connector for downtown Silver Spring -- not just for cars, but for pedestrians and cyclists who will rely on it to reach the future Silver Spring Library and Dale Drive stations. Once it opens, we’ll finally get a sense of how the redesigned intersection and sidewalks will function with Purple Line trains running nearby.

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

We’ll keep an eye out for the official opening announcement, but it’s safe to say this one is nearly ready for its close up.

More on Purple Line construction updates: https://purplelinemd.com/construction

Live Wire and LRV Testing Happening Right Now!

Testing continues to be one of the most exciting parts of the Purple Line story -- because it’s the part that looks and feels like a real transit line coming to life.

As of this week, live wire testing and LRV movements are active between the Lyttonsville Operations & Maintenance Facility and Bethesda Station and expanding outward from there. You may see trains gliding through the corridor at odd hours, especially overnight, as crews test braking, acceleration, communications, and power systems.

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

Testing has also been reported in portions of Silver Spring, particularly near the future Manchester Place and Silver Spring Library stations. If you’re out and about and spot a train, feel free to send us a photo -- safely, of course -- we love seeing these glimpses of the future. Send photos here: [email protected].

Leadership Transitions at MDOT MTA

The Maryland Transit Administration is entering a new chapter, and we wanted to take a moment to highlight both the thoughtful goodbye message from outgoing Administrator Holly Arnold and the warm welcome message from incoming Administrator Tony Bridges.

Holly shared a reflective and heartfelt note as she stepped down from her role on September 1. She looked back on the challenges of the past five years -- from pandemic recovery to major systemwide improvements -- and expressed deep gratitude for MTA employees and riders. Her message underscored the progress made across every mode of transit and her optimism for the agency’s future.

Hello Transit Rider,

After much reflection, I have made the decision to leave the MTA. My last day will be September 1, 2026. This decision has not been made lightly. Serving as Administrator has been one of the greatest honors of my professional career, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have worked in public service for the people of Maryland.

When I stepped into this role in June 2021, we were navigating unprecedented challenges resulting from decades of underinvestment and a global pandemic. Together, we faced those challenges head-on and worked tirelessly to strengthen the agency, improve service for our riders, and build a strong foundation for future growth. Every one of our accomplishments over the past five years was made possible by the dedication, professionalism, and commitment to serving the residents of Maryland by MTA employees.

As I reflect on my time here, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together:

• We dramatically increased service reliability, with core service missed trips continuing to trend down, and achieved over 93% on-time performance consistently for Mobility.
• We focused on customer service with the creation of our Customer Experience Office and hiring of our Rider Experience Director.
• We launched real-time information across every mode, including Mobility, and improved the information available to our riders.
• We advertised and brought on a new design-build contractor for the Purple Line and advanced the project to over 90% complete.
• We relaunched the Baltimore Red Line and advanced design on this critical east-west connection.
• We secured over $300 million in grant funding from the Federal Transit Administration to support every mode across the agency.
• We partnered with Amtrak to secure over $6 billion in grant funding from the Federal Railroad Administration to advance the B&P Tunnel Replacement Program and the Susquehanna River Bridge project.
• We updated our fare tariff for the first time in decades, expanding access to students and low-income riders.
• We launched our new signal system from Metro and put our first nine new railcars into service.
• We began annual service planning for our commuter modes to better align service with rider needs.
• We focused on the needs of our employees and established the Office of Organizational Development and the Office of People and Culture.
• We uplifted our communities by showing up for them
• We focused on the future through the development and publication of the Central Maryland Regional Transportation Plan, the BMORE Bus plan, and the MARC Growth and Transformation Plan.
• We increased ridership to over 70 million in 2025, representing a robust recovery from pandemic-era declines.

Most importantly, I am proud of the culture we have continued to build together on behalf of our riders – one centered on our core values: safety, fairness, respect, customer focused, and continuously improving. Every day, I have been inspired by the passion and resilience of MTA employees, whose work matters and makes a difference in the lives of all Marylanders.

The future of MTA is bright. I am excited to see the MTA move forward and achieve even greater success. As I look ahead, I know the agency is in good hands with the appointment by Governor Moore of Tony Bridges as the next MTA Administrator. I look forward to working with Tony during this transition to MTA's next chapter.

Thank you for your support, your partnership and, above all, for riding public transit. It has truly been a privilege to serve you.

Holly Arnold

Incoming Administrator, Tony Bridges also shared a message with riders as he begins his tenure, emphasizing his commitment to building a transit system that works for Marylanders -- safer, more reliable service, clearer communication, and a customer experience worthy of a world class system. He noted that this work takes time, but improving the rider experience is at the heart of everything the agency does.

A Message to Our Riders,

As the new administrator of the Maryland Transit Administration, I want to introduce myself and share my commitment to you.

I am truly excited and humbled to be back with the Maryland Transit Administration and to once again be part of a team that performs this work every day with distinction, professionalism and pride.

Every day, hundreds or thousands of Marylanders rely on MTA to get to work, school, appointments, and everything in between.  That trust is something I take seriously, and I'm committed to earning it every day.  

My priority is simple: building a transit system that works for you.

That means safer, more reliable service.

Clearer communication when things don’t go as planned.

And a customer experience that reflects the world-class system Maryland deserves. This won’t happen overnight, but I want you to know that improving your experience is at the center of everything we do. I encourage you to share your feedback — your voice will help shape the changes we make. 

Thank you for riding with us, and for your patience as we work to serve you better.

Tony Bridges,
Administrator

Complete Streets: A Critical Conversation -- ACT Meeting Held on September 8

Last night, our friends at the Action Committee for Transit hosted an important conversation that ties directly into the Purple Line’s future: “Have Complete Streets Reached a Dead End?” The event featured Dustin Robertson, Senior Program Manager for Thriving Communities at Smart Growth America.

If you weren’t able to attend, ACT shared that they hope to upload the recording to their YouTube channel. As soon as it’s posted, we’ll pass the link along so everyone can watch the discussion.

The conversation focused on something Montgomery County continues to struggle with: far too many crashes that injure or kill people who are walking, biking, or rolling. Dustin’s work centers on Complete Streets and the intersections of mobility, health, and equity -- exactly the kind of thinking we need as the Purple Line approaches opening. Sidewalks, bikeways, safe crossings -- these aren’t extras. They’re essential pieces of making transit accessible to everyone.

Learn more about ACT: https://www.actfortransit.org/

Affordable Connected Communities 2026: A Timely Conversation at UMD

Even though this event will take place the day after this newsletter arrives in your inbox, we didn’t want you to miss it. The University of Maryland’s National Center for Smart Growth is hosting Affordable Connected Communities 2026, a gathering focused on one of the most important questions facing our region right now: how do we build communities that are both affordable and well connected to the places people need to go?

The conversation will bring together planners, researchers, advocates, and community leaders to talk about housing, transportation, equity, and the kinds of investments that help neighborhoods thrive. These are issues that sit right at the heart of the Purple Line’s mission -- connecting people to opportunity, reducing barriers, and strengthening the fabric of the communities along the corridor.

If you’re able to attend, it promises to be a thoughtful and energizing discussion. And if you can’t make it, keep an eye out for recordings or summaries afterward. Events like this often spark ideas that ripple outward into local policy and community conversations.

Learn more or register here: https://www.umdsmartgrowth.org/affordable-connected-communities-2026/

Warm Wishes for Councilmember Will Jawando

Many of you may have already seen the news from the Office of Councilmember Will Jawando, but we wanted to take a moment to share it here and send our heartfelt support.

Over the weekend, Councilmember Jawando experienced a heart attack during his regular Saturday pickup basketball game. Thanks to the quick actions of friends on the court and the exceptional care at The George Washington University Hospital, doctors were able to place a stent right away, and his medical team is confident in his full recovery. He is resting comfortably and is expected to return home later this week to recover with his wife, Michele, and their children.

His office released the following statement:

“On the morning of Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, Councilmember and Democratic nominee for Montgomery County Executive Will Jawando experienced a heart attack during his regular weekend pickup basketball game. He was immediately taken to The George Washington University Hospital, where doctors successfully placed a stent. His doctors are confident in his full recovery given his strong overall health.

“The Councilmember is resting comfortably and is expected to be discharged later this week to recover at home with his wife, Michele, and their children. Following his doctor's guidance, Councilmember Jawando will adjust office activities in the coming weeks, while his office remains open, available, and ready to help meet the community’s needs.

“Councilmember Jawando and his family are grateful to God for the friends who acted quickly and to the exceptional doctors, nurses, and staff at The George Washington University Hospital. They are deeply thankful for the outpouring of support and prayers from neighbors, colleagues, and supporters from across the county and state.”

Please direct any inquiries to Councilmember Jawando's Chief of Staff, David Kunes, at [email protected] or at 240-350-5104. We’re sending warm wishes for a smooth, steady recovery and look forward to seeing him back on his feet soon.

STAY CONNECTED

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. 

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 friends --

Welcome!

We hope you’re staying cool, hydrated, and maybe even sneaking into a shady spot now and then. The Purple Line corridor has been buzzing these past few weeks -- and not just from cicadas! We’re talking about real, honest‑to‑goodness trains on the move. Live wire testing has now expanded through Silver Spring and Bethesda with trains gliding along portions of the dedicated alignment. It’s one of those moments when you can feel the project shifting from “construction zone” to “future transit line,” and we’re delighted to bring you the latest.

In statewide transit news, we’re also saying a heartfelt goodbye to MTA Administrator Holly Arnold who announced her departure at the end of July, and welcoming her successor, Tony Bridges, who officially steps in on September 1. And our friends at Action Committee for Transit are hiring -- a great opportunity for someone who wants to get involved in the transit advocacy world.

We’ve also got a gentle mid‑summer fundraising update. At our mid‑year board meeting, we were down to about $1,700 in the bank, which is typical for this slow season, but still a reminder of how much your support keeps us going. Summer may be slow for fundraising, but the Purple Line certainly isn’t slowing down.

Thank you, as always, for reading and for being part of this community. The Purple Line is moving forward -- quietly, steadily, and now visibly, with trains on the tracks. We’re thrilled to share the journey with you. If you have questions, ideas, or want to get involved, we’re always here.

Grab a cool drink, settle in, and let’s catch up on what’s new.

Warmly,
Purple Line NOW

 

WHAT'S HAPPENING!

A Gentle Mid‑Summer Fundraising Appeal

At our quarterly board meeting just last week, our treasurer reported Purple Line NOW had about $1,700 in the bank -- not unusual for July, but certainly lean. Summer is always our slowest fundraising season and we rely on supporters like you to keep our newsletters, forums, and public engagement going.

If you’ve already given this year, thank you! If you haven’t yet, we hope you’ll consider a contribution when it fits your circumstances. Even small gifts help us bridge the quiet months until our late fall campaign heats up.

To donate, just click here or click on the purple DONATE NOW button below. Every contribution truly makes a difference. 

With Gratitude to Our Generous Donors

We are deeply grateful for the support of everyone who helps keep Purple Line NOW strong. Your contributions make our work possible, and we appreciate you more than we can say.

Presenting Donors

The Sanders‑Malloy Family

Featured Donors

Maryland Department of Transportation
Tina, Don, and Jessie Slater

Supporters

Elizabeth Barbehenn

Engineers

Isiah Leggett
Ben Ross
Nancy and Rob Soreng

Conductors

Posey Eitzen
Jodie Kulpa‑Eddy
John Robinson
Christine Scott and JohnR Llewellyn

Commuters

Anne Ambler & John Fay
Gus Bauman
Ralph Bennett
Mike DeLong
Peter Gray
Elaine Emling & Michael Jenner
Drs. Troy Jacobs & Kawsar Talaat
Gerrit Knaap
Francine Meyer
Kathy Porter
Tom Quinn
Webb Smedley
John Undeland

Passengers

Louise & Ross Capon
John Carroll
Margaret Chasson
Patrick Dougherty
William & Kay Gilcher
Michael Larkin
Jay Miller
Judith Morenoff
James Riley
Michael Volk
William Young

Maryland Purple Line Live Wire Testing Reaches Silver Spring

Live wire testing officially reached Silver Spring on August 3, marking another major milestone for the Purple Line. LRVs are now operating between Lyttonsville and Bethesda during both overnight and daytime hours, giving residents their first sustained glimpse of energized trains moving through the corridor. If you’ve spotted a train gliding by and wondered whether you imagined it -- you didn’t!

This phase tests braking, acceleration, electrical systems, and communications -- all essential steps before trial running begins in 2027. It’s one of the clearest signs yet that the Purple Line is transitioning from construction to operations.

Read more: Source of the Spring Staff | Aug 3, 2026 | Silver Spring, MD

Photo Courtesy of MDOT MTA

Testing Active on Both Ends of the Alignment

Testing is now underway on both the eastern and western ends of the Purple Line alignment. LRVs are running overnight between New Carrollton and Adelphi Road on the east, while daytime testing continues between Lyttonsville and Bethesda on the west.

This dual‑end testing shows the project moving steadily toward full system integration and gives residents a preview of what regular service will look like once trial running begins. It’s a bit like watching a dress rehearsal -- except the actors weigh 100,000 pounds and run on electricity.

Read more: Popville | Aug 5, 2026 | Petworth, MD

Photo Courtesy of C. Scott

A Fond Farewell to Holly Arnold and a Warm Welcome to Tony Bridges

On July 28, MTA Administrator Holly Arnold announced she will step down effective September 1, 2026 after more than 13 years with the agency. Her leadership helped modernize Maryland’s transit systems and shepherd the Purple Line through challenging years. We extend a hearty thank you to Holly and wish her all the best in her next chapter.

Governor Wes Moore has appointed Tony Bridges -- former Baltimore City Delegate and longtime transportation leader -- as the next MTA Administrator. Bridges brings deep experience, legislative insight, and a clear commitment to Maryland’s future. We look forward to working with him as the Purple Line enters its final phases.

Read more: Maryland Matters | July 29, 2026

Action Committee for Transit Is Hiring -- Program Coordinator Position

Our friends at Action Committee for Transit (ACT) have posted a new opening for a Program Coordinator. This role supports ACT’s advocacy, outreach, and community engagement efforts -- perfect for someone who cares deeply about equitable, sustainable transportation in Montgomery County. If you know someone who lights up at the words “transit equity,” send them this link: Action Committee for Transit - Program Coordinator Opening.

MCDOT Seeks Public Input on Sidewalk Proposal with Key Safety Considerations for Families, Seniors, and Winter Access

MCDOT is seeking public input on sidewalk connectivity proposals around the Purple Line’s Manchester Place Station in Silver Spring. These improvements will shape long‑term access to the station and surrounding neighborhoods and this is one of those moments when community voices really matter.

Why Sidewalk Width Matters

Five‑foot sidewalks are increasingly essential. With kids and teens on scooters (motorized or not), younger children on bikes and trikes, parents pushing strollers, and residents using wheeled walkers or wheelchairs, narrow sidewalks quickly become congested or unsafe. Wider sidewalks:

• Reduce conflicts • Improve visibility • Keep children off the street • Support safe mobility for people with disabilities

Even if you’re not a resident of the immediate area, we encourage anyone submitting comments to include the importance of five‑foot widths. It’s a small design choice with a big impact.

A Community Driven Idea: Student Service Hours for Winter Shoveling

Snow and slush often pile up on narrow sidewalks, making them impassable for seniors, parents, and people with mobility devices. One creative solution: encourage local regional service centers or Montgomery County’s MTA office to sponsor a program allowing Montgomery County students to earn service‑learning hours by helping clear sidewalks near Purple Line stations.

This could improve winter access, build community engagement, provide meaningful service opportunities while reducing the burdens on adjacent property owners. It’s a win‑win -- and worth raising during public comment periods.

How to Submit Comments

MCDOT’s public comment portal is open now. If you live, work, or travel through the Silver Spring area, we strongly encourage you to participate. These decisions will shape daily life for thousands of Purple Line riders.

STAY CONNECTED

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. 

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.