Maryland Seeks Private Operator for Purple Line
Bethesda, Md.
Maryland will pursue a private firm to design, construct, finance, operate, and maintain the $2.2 billion Purple Line light rail system planned for D.C.s northern suburbs, says Governor Martin OMalley.
The decision to seek a public-private partnership to build the 16-mile, east-west light rail line was paired with the announcement that the state will pump an additional $400 million into the project, bringing Marylands total contribution to nearly $700 million, including $280 million for design and right-of-way acquisition.
On Tuesday, Maryland Secretary of Transportation James Smith is scheduled to meet federal transportation officials to discuss the states bid for $900 million in matching funds under the New Starts program. .....................(more)
The complete piece is at:
http://www.wnyc.org/blogs/transportation-nation/2013/aug/06/maryland-seeks-p3-purple-line-light-rail/