Purple Line project moves forward

In May 2017, U.S. District Judge Richard Leon made a ruling that could have caused the Purple Line project to be on hold indefinitely. Leon ruled that federal transit officials needed to complete a “supplemental” environmental review, which could take several months.

This Wednesday, a federal appeals court reinstated the Purple Line’s environmental approval, as reported by WAMU. Because of this, work can start on the $2 billion light rail project, while the legal case carries on. Already, Maryland has spent $300 million on development work, but the state will need $900 million in federal funding before any construction can get underway.

The Purple Line is planned to run 16 miles between Prince George's and Montgomery counties.

• Appeals Court Throws Purple Line A Life Line [WAMU]

• Purple Line delayed, thanks to judge’s ruling [Curbed DC]