Hello, Purple Line NOW Friends!

We’re so glad you’re here! In this edition of Purple Line NOW News we’ve got plenty to share, from exciting updates on construction progress to a sneak peek at what’s coming down the tracks.

We’re also hard at work planning our next virtual forum entitled "The Trains Are Rolling — What Should We Know?!" We’re aiming for mid-September and will confirm the date soon, along with a reservation link so you can join us from wherever you are. The speaker’s panel is shaping up to be an engaging and informative one and you won’t want to miss it!

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!

So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s dive into the latest on the Purple Line. We are one step closer to connecting our communities in new and meaningful ways.

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 Kindness: Appreciating Purple Line Crews, One Gesture at a Time
  • MHP Launches Relief Efforts for Families Displaced by Long Branch Flood
  • Help Us Highlight Businesses Along the Purple Line Corridor
• Construction Updates
  • Construction Closures and Detours
  • Safety First!

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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!

We’re excited to announce a new opportunity to support Purple Line NOW’s mission: event sponsorship for our upcoming virtual forum!

The forum will bring together project leaders, county officials, and community advocates for a dynamic, forward-looking discussion. As a small organization with a big heart, we rely on the generosity of supporters like you to make events like this possible -- and meaningful. Our forums are always free and open to the public and press.

Below are suggested sponsorship levels designed to be accessible to donations of all sizes. Every contribution helps us create a welcoming, informative space for dialogue and progress. Whether you're a longtime supporter or joining us for the first time, there's a place for you in this effort.

All sponsors will receive recognition during our live event, on our website, and in any literature we disperse. For our top sponsor, we’re offering a brief speaking opportunity to kick off the event with a message of community support.

Suggested Sponsorship Levels

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

(Click on the purple box below to sponsor the event!)

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 matched 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 Kindness: Appreciating Purple Line Crews, One Gesture at a Time

As Purple Line construction continues across our region, we’ve been inspired by the thoughtful ways neighbors are showing appreciation for the hardworking crews bringing this transformative project to life.

Even though the crews are well prepared for any type of weather, we recently heard that a group of neighbors in the Woodside community, who spotted workers at the end of their block on a sweltering day, offered additional frozen treats to help them beat the heat. Residents in another community offered purple cookies and a smile on Valentine’s Day. Others give a cheerful thumbs-up or wave as they pass by on their morning walks. These gestures may seem small, but they carry big meaning for crews working long hours in challenging conditions.

A great way to show your appreciation and gratitude for these tireless workers is to send a note of thanks to the Purple Line team (and copy us so we can share it here! You can share the love on social media, too, and tag us so we can re-post!

Important Safety Reminder: At no time should residents or walkers enter any construction zones -- active or inactive -- or cross behind fencing. These areas are restricted for safety reasons, and even well-meaning visits can pose risks to both workers and neighbors.

Let’s keep the spirit of community strong by continuing to show appreciation in ways that are heartfelt and safe. Every wave and kindness helps build not just a transit line—but a stronger connection between neighbors and the teams making it happen.

MHP Launches Relief Efforts for Families Displaced by Long Branch Flood

On Friday evening, July 25, an unexpected water main break at Wayne Manchester Towers Apartments in Long Branch caused severe flooding across two floors of the building. The incident, triggered by an unmarked utility line encountered during Purple Line construction, displaced 50 individuals from 20 households. Four units have been condemned, and several others require extensive repairs. Many families lost personal belongings and are now seeking new housing.

At the request of Montgomery County officials and with support from the Purple Line team, Montgomery Housing Partnership (MHP) is mobilizing emergency funds to assist those affected. While the building is not an MHP property, the organization is deeply committed to supporting Long Branch residents and preserving the neighborhood’s strength and character as the community prepares for the Purple Line’s arrival in 2027.

If you would like to help, please visit: https://mhpartners.org/2025-wayne-manchester-flood/

Help us Highlight Businesses Along the Purple Line Corridor

Many businesses along the corridor are doing their best as we plow through the heavy construction phase of the project, but often could use a little boost by way of a friendly reminder to all of us, residents and workers alike, that they are still open for business and hope you'll remember them as you plan where you'll eat and shop. If you know of a business or area that might need a little boost, send the information our way and we'll be sure to include them in future editions of the Purple Line NOW Newsletter when we can.

CONSTRUCTION UPDATES & PROJECT FEATURES

Purple Line Construction Updates:

As summer winds down, we want to extend our appreciation to all of you -- neighbors, commuters, and crews -- for your continued patience and support as Purple Line construction progresses. At the beginning of August, the Purple Line passed the 80% complete milestone (with over 50% of track installed!), a major step forward toward opening day!

Below is a brief summary of key updates and detours from the past two months to help you stay informed and prepared. A comprehensive list of closures and detours can be found on the Purple Line website.

Recent Detours & Closures

Silver Spring

• Spring Street Bridge remains fully closed for replacement and deep stormwater system installation. Detours via 16th St, Georgia Ave, and Colesville Rd; portions of First and Second Avenues also closed.
• Ramsey Ave & Bonifant St closed from August 4 to October 6 for track and utility work. Transit Center access via Ripley Street.
• Wayne Ave & Fenton St closure extended through September 5 for track installation and sidewalk upgrades.

Long Branch

• Arliss Street between Piney Branch Rd and Garland Ave remains closed for utility work and station construction. Temporary driveway access provided to Flower Branch Apartments.

College Park / UMD

• Campus Drive saw overnight restriping and daytime lane closures near Regents Drive and Martin Hall from August 11–16.
• Baltimore Avenue northbound lane and sidewalk closed near Hotel Drive on August 13–14, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Thank you for staying engaged and informed. 

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!

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.