Beginning in January and continuing over the next several months the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) will be conducting field work along the proposed Purple Line corridor to collect soil samples.

Why are geological samples needed?

As the Preliminary Engineering phase for the proposed 16-mile Purple Line Light Rail Transit system begins, the MTA is conducting geological studies, exploring soil, rock, and groundwater conditions along the proposed corridor. To better understand these underground conditions, 6 to 12-inch diameter holes (borings) will be drilled. Each location is expected to take up to one week to complete.

What should you expect?

Drilling will begin over the next few weeks and will move to different locations throughout the winter and spring. At any given time, the work area around each boring will be occupied by a crew of 4-6 people, a truck-mounted drill rig and 2 or 3 support vehicles. Work will be conducted on weekdays between the hours of 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. In rare instances, field work may be extended to 5:00 pm. Equipment will be removed daily, and a steel plate will be placed over the open borehole to prevent injury. On completion, borings will be patched with like materials.

How will this work affect you?

Minor traffic disruptions, such as parking restrictions and some travel lane closures, should be expected while crews are working in your area. Residents and businesses should watch for changing traffic and pedestrian patterns. Sounds associated with the equipment should be no louder than an idling diesel truck. The work required to collect the data is expected to have minimal impact on area residents. We thank you for your cooperation and apologize for any inconvenience.