Maryland Governor Wes Moore announced on social media Thursday that his administration is advancing plans for a new light rail project in Baltimore. Last year, Moore indicated a revival of an east-west transit project previously halted by former Governor Larry Hogan. However, specifics on whether it would be light rail, rapid bus, or a mix of transit options were not provided then.
In his recent post, Moore confirmed the project would indeed be a light rail system, stating, “We listened to communities, stakeholders, and leaders across the state — they were clear, this is what they wanted. We are proud to announce the Red Line will bring light rail to Baltimore!”
Norfolk Southern locomotives are moved in Norfolk Southern Conway Terminal (Via Jake Gabana/Shutterstock)
The Democratic governor is scheduled to hold a news conference on Friday in Baltimore to discuss further details about the Red Line project. A recent study by Johns Hopkins University highlighted the positive impact of the Red Line in improving job accessibility.
Governor Hogan faced criticism from Baltimore officials in June 2015 when he decided against proceeding with the original $2.64 billion plan for the Red Line, instead advancing the Purple Line light rail project in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties. He described the planning for the Red Line as “wasteful” at the time.
