Silver Spring, MD – As Maryland’s Purple Line light‑rail project approaches its final phases, the state announced a new grant program to help small businesses that have been hurt by years of construction. Eligible businesses located within a quarter‑mile of the line, with 50 or fewer employees and annual sales of $2 million or less, can apply for grants of up to $50,000.
Why the Grants Matter
The Purple Line, now about 92% complete, will eventually link Bethesda to New Carrollton across 21 stations. While the project promises long‑term transit benefits, many local merchants have faced reduced foot traffic, parking shortages, and noisy road closures. The state’s grant program is intended to provide immediate relief while the line moves toward “significant completion” by the end of 2026.
Local Business Impact
Owners along the corridor have felt the strain. Dr. Brad Hounkpatr, who runs African Icons Restaurant on Bonifant Street, described his establishment as “dead” because customers cannot park and the streets remain blocked. He added that he has been covering expenses out of his own pocket to keep the doors open.
“We appreciate the grant offer, but it does not come close to covering what we have lost,” Hounkpatr said. “We need a realistic parking solution and financial support that matches the real losses we’ve endured.”
Grant Details and Application Process
To qualify, businesses must submit documentation proving their proximity to the Purple Line, employee count, and annual revenue. Applications will be accepted online starting next week, with the first round of awards expected to be distributed by early 2027.
The Maryland Department of Transportation emphasized that the grants are part of a broader effort to sustain the local economy while the Purple Line undergoes testing. Light‑rail vehicles are already being tested on more than half of the 16‑mile route, with full‑route testing slated for 2027.
Community Outreach
In addition to the grant program, Purple Line officials will host seven virtual community meetings to keep residents and business owners informed about upcoming milestones. The Silver Spring meeting is scheduled for October 22, offering a chance for direct dialogue with project managers.
Passenger service on the Purple Line is not expected to begin until the end of 2027, meaning the grant program will play a crucial role in keeping businesses afloat during the final construction and testing phases.
Looking Ahead
State leaders hope the financial assistance will help preserve the vibrant mix of restaurants, shops, and services that define Silver Spring’s downtown core. By supporting these small enterprises, Maryland aims to ensure that once the Purple Line is operational, the area will be ready to welcome commuters and visitors alike, bolstering both local commerce and regional connectivity.
Original reporting: Arlington County | FOX 5 DC — read the source article.
