Bethesda Station Expands for Purple Line Connection

Metro builds new mezzanine at Bethesda Station for Purple Line connection by 2027

Metro Adds Mezzanine at Bethesda for Purple Line

Metro's building a new mezzanine at Bethesda Station to connect riders with the Purple Line when it opens in 2027, transit officials said. The construction at the south end of the Red Line station will create a direct transfer point between the two systems. WMATA hasn't disclosed the project's cost or when construction began, though work is currently underway.

Preparing for Regional Transit Integration

The mezzanine represents WMATA's preparation for the Purple Line's 16.2-mile light rail system connecting Bethesda to New Carrollton, according to the transit agency. The $9.3 billion Purple Line project will serve 21 stations across Maryland, with multiple connection points to existing Metro lines. Officials said the Bethesda integration follows similar planning at Silver Spring and College Park, where Metro stations will also connect with Purple Line stops. Bethesda Station opened in 1984 as part of the Red Line, and the new mezzanine marks the first major expansion to accommodate another transit system.

Construction Details and Timeline

The new mezzanine will remain closed to passengers until the Purple Line begins service, transit officials said. WMATA hasn't released technical specifications for the mezzanine, including square footage or detailed architectural plans. The Purple Line faced significant delays after contractor disputes in 2020 pushed back the original opening timeline. Officials said the 2027 opening date represents the current schedule for when the integrated station will become operational.

Implementation Through 2027

Construction will continue through the Purple Line's scheduled 2027 opening, according to the transit agency. WMATA hasn't provided specific construction milestones or a completion timeline separate from the Purple Line launch date. Officials said they'll coordinate with Maryland Transit Administration, which operates the Purple Line project, to ensure the connection is ready when light rail service begins.

What Riders Need to Know

The new mezzanine won't affect current Red Line service at Bethesda, though construction may temporarily impact some station access points, officials said. Once the Purple Line opens, riders will be able to transfer between systems without leaving the fare-paid area. WMATA hasn't released projections for how many passengers will use the connection. Riders can check Moovit for real-time updates on Metro service and construction impacts at Bethesda Station.