USDOT announces $1.28 TIFIA loan for Silver Line's second phase

U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx on Wednesday announced the closing of a $1.28 billion federal loan to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority for the second construction phase of the Metrorail Silver Line extension in Washington, D.C.

The first phase of the Silver Line has been "an overwhelming success," and the Transportation Infrastructure Financial Innovation Act (TIFIA) loan will help ensure the success of the second phase, Foxx said in a prepared statement.

Work will begin at the Wiehle Avenue Station, where the first phase of work ended, and includes construction of 11.4 miles of track from Wiehle to Route 772 in eastern Loudoun County. Six new stations will be built — including one at Washington Dulles International Airport — as well as a new service and inspection yard at Dulles.

"When complete, the Silver Line will help residents and visitors get where they need to go safely, quickly and affordably," Foxx said.

Last month, Foxx and other U.S. Department of Transportation officials, state and local leaders gathered to mark the opening of the Silver Line's first phase, which represented the largest expansion of Metrorail service in 20 years.