ABOUT THE PLAN | The Purple Line is a proposed transit link -- either light rail or bus rapid transit -- between Bethesda, Silver Spring and New Carrollton. It would provide connections to Metrorail's Red, Green and Orange lines. See map.
Purple Line opponents show the scale of trains on the Capital Crescent Trail in Chevy Chase. (By Mark Gail -- The Washington Post)
Arguments
IN FAVOR |
Proponents say the line is needed to link Maryland's ends of the Red, Green and Orange lines with Amtrak and MARC stations. They argue that the line would provide better east-west service, particularly for lower-income workers.
"Smart mass transit offers the only prospect to enhance our communities and reduce our impact on our globe."
-- Jonathan Elkind, Founder of Silver Spring Advocates
"Smart mass transit offers the only prospect to enhance our communities and reduce our impact on our globe."
-- Jonathan Elkind, Founder of Silver Spring Advocates
AGAINST |
Opponents say the cost -- put as high as $1.75 billion -- is too high for limited benefit. They argue the line would destroy the Capital Crescent Trail and disrupt neighborhoods in Chevy Chase, East Bethesda and Silver Spring.
"The Purple Line isn't going to solve any transit problem."
-- Mark Gabriele, President of the Seven Oaks Evanswood Citizens' Association
"The Purple Line isn't going to solve any transit problem."
-- Mark Gabriele, President of the Seven Oaks Evanswood Citizens' Association
Latest Headlines
