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New Statistics, Gas Costs Fuel Purple Line Push

Map courtesy Innerpurpleline.org
NEW POTENTIAL RIDERSHIP numbers are powering renewed calls for a Purple Line light rail or rapid bus service to connect Metrorail stations in suburban Maryland.

According to new state estimates, about 68,000 people would take advantage of a Purple Line if it existed — a jump of 20,000 people from initial figures, NBC4 reports. Line supporters, who spoke with the press and handed out pamphlets at the Silver Spring Metro station earlier today, cited rising fuel prices as part of the draw for commuters.

The line, which would connect the strong>Bethesda and Silver Spring Metro stations in Montgomery County with the New Carrollton station in Prince George's County, has received strong support from the Maryland Transportation Authority and other state officials. But it would need federal funding, as well as resolutions to land-use and environmental questions, in order to proceed.

Map courtesy innerpurpleline.org

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