Purple Line debate underscores east-west divide

Published 12/02/08

SILVER SPRING, Md. (AP) — Advocates of a proposed transit line between Bethesda and New Carrollton say debate over the project has underscored the tension of a growing class divide.

The 16-mile transit link dubbed the "Purple Line" would be either a rapid bus line or a light rail line. It's projected to attract up to 68,100 riders daily.

Supporters say the line would be an economic boon for lower-income residents to the east in Prince George's County, allowing them access to jobs and development projects. They say opposition to the plan is rooted in elitism, with those in the wealthier western suburbs of...

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Hypocracy - 2008-12-05 13:45:19

Since the major news outlets apparently don't feel inclined to do their jobs, I wanted to point out the hypocracy of Prince Georges County politicians' accusations of racism when it comes to the Purple Line. While supporting the Purple Line because it will link the two counties, they stand in strong opposition to the ICC because they fear it will take jobs out of Prince Georges County. Rather than explain the inconsistencies in their own position, they engaged in "swift boat" attacks.

It is a sad commentary on these public officials that rather then discuss the valid concerns of citizens, they choose to make baseless accusations. Given that the proposed Purple Line is running through largely industrial areas in Prince Georges County and not through residential areas, I can understand why they may not have the same concerns as those expressed by Montgomery County citizens. However, there is no excuse for ignoring the concerns of those citizens whose homes will be impacted by the disruption and noise created from construction and operation of the Purple Line. MTA has promised extras like grass tracks and sound barriers to help shield these residents, but such extras could likely be sacrificed as a result of budget shortfalls. Residents whose homes may be directly impacted by the Purple Line, as well as citizens like myself who see flaws in MTA's environmental assessments, have the right to voice our concerns without being tagged as elitists or racists.

Such tactics generate more press, but that does not justify making defamatory statements. We should demand more from our public officials- at the very least they should pretend to engage in a thoughtful debate. My suggestion is that Shapiro and Dodro spend more time familiarizing themselves with the views of their opposition and working with MTA to address these concerns rather than devoting all of their energy into making baseless mudslinging.

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Allison R. - Chevy Chase, MD - Karma: Bad