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Final Track Installed on Maryland’s Purple Line Light Rail

The milestone signals a move into testing ahead of a projected late-2027 start.

Overview

  • State, local, and federal leaders installed the last rail segment in Silver Spring, completing track across the 16-mile route between New Carrollton and Bethesda.
  • Officials said the project is about 90% complete following the track installation, which clears the way for system testing and finishing work.
  • Trains are projected to begin service in late 2027 or early 2028 after delays driven by lawsuits, utility work, and a contractor’s withdrawal in 2020.
  • The line will have 21 stations and connect to Metro’s Red, Green, and Orange lines plus Amtrak and MARC to add an east–west link for suburban riders.
  • Leaders pointed to help for businesses hurt by years of construction, citing $3 million in state aid and nearly $1 million in new federal funds for Prince George’s County.