With only days remaining to resolve cost overrun issues with its public-private development partner, the Maryland Dept. of Transportation is preparing to assume management of the troubled $2-billion Purple Line light rail construction project.
On Aug. 5, MDOT and the Maryland Transit Administration notified the 171 subcontractors and suppliers hired by developer Purple Line Development Partners (PLTP) that it would exercise “step-in” rights and manage those contracts. Step-in rights give the state the authority to direct the work of contractors and suppliers, resolve claims, and process invoices and applications for payment.