Purple Line Rail

This new 16-mile light rail line through Bethesda, Maryland will connect Prince George's and Montgomery counties and offer a direct link to existing public transportation services in greater Washington, D.C., including key Metrorail lines, MARC commuter rail, Amtrak and multiple bus networks.

The Purple Line will operate mainly in exclusive lanes, allowing for fast, reliable operations. Most of the line will be at the roadway level with short segments elevated or underground.

Light rail vehicles are modern, comfortable streetcars, powered by overhead electrical wires. When completed, the light rail line will facilitate easier, faster and more environmentally friendly commutes featuring:

• Cars with low floors so passengers can board without climbing steps
• Special wheel profiles and noise-reducing wheel skirts for quiet operations
• Neighborhood stations convenient for pedestrians and bicyclists