Design For Key Bridge Set Be Unveiled
Source: Zandra Zmuzik Morrow / Getty
Maryland Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland Transportation Authority are set to reveal the design for the new Francis Scott Key Bridge, nearly a year after its catastrophic collapse following a collision with a cargo ship.
The Collapse of the Key Bridge
On March 26, 2024, the cargo ship Dali lost power and struck the Key Bridge, leading to its collapse. The incident tragically resulted in the deaths of six workers, as eight individuals were sent into the Patapsco River.
Securing Federal Funding
After the bridge collapse, former President Joe Biden pledged federal support for reconstruction. The administration approved an initial $60 million in emergency relief to clear debris from the Patapsco River.
In November 2024, the former president included funding for the Key Bridge in a $100 billion disaster relief package submitted to Congress. By December, Maryland lawmakers confirmed that federal funding would fully cover the cost of rebuilding.
“This funding ensures that reconstruction will proceed as swiftly as possible,” said Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin. “Additionally, federal taxpayers will be reimbursed through insurance payments and legal action pursued by the Department of Justice and the Maryland Attorney General.”
Rebuilding the Bridge
The MDTA took a major step toward reconstruction in August 2024 by approving a $73 million contract with Kiewit Infrastructure Company for the bridge’s design and construction.
Pre-construction efforts began in January 2025, with completion targeted for fall 2028. The total project cost is estimated at $2 billion. Preliminary work includes examining approximately 1,100 homes and businesses in nearby areas, scanning the riverbed, collecting soil samples, and conducting surveys, as outlined by the MDTA.
Additionally, in January 2025, the MDTA approved a $75 million contract with the Bridging Maryland Partnership for General Engineering Consultant services. This partnership will provide planning, engineering, construction management, and overall program support throughout the project.
To keep stakeholders and the public informed, the MDTA has launched the Key Bridge Rebuild Facebook page, offering regular updates on the progress of the reconstruction.
