Montgomery County lawmakers are re-examining the need for projects tied to the planned Purple Line light rail, whose funding is in jeopardy.
County Executive Ike Leggett said Tuesday he was delaying the proposed south entrance to the Bethesda Metro Station, which would allow riders to transfer between the Purple Line's Bethesda terminus and the Metro. He also is delaying funding for the Capital Crescent Trail, the popular path that would have to be reconstructed if the Purple Line is built. The $2.15 billion, 16-mile line between New Carrollton and Bethesda would run along the current trail.
"Due to the current lack of state construction funding for these projects, this reduction is not likely to cause a delay in the project," according to a release from Leggett announcing several postponements due to the county's budget shortfall.
| Leggett wants more money for transit center |
| County Executive Ike Leggett announced he was going to put $7.5 million more into the Silver Spring Transit Center to cover site improvements, utilities and construction costs. The $110 million transportation project in downtown Silver Spring, which began construction in 2008, has been delayed several times, most recently due to structural problems. The facility would provide connections among MARC, Metrorail and the Purple Line and hold bus bays, a kiss and ride stop and a taxi stand. |
Council members also delayed several master plans for development along the light rail.
