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Baltimore Bridge Project Faces Billions in New Costs
27 Mar
Summary
- Bridge rebuild cost projections have surged dramatically to billions.
- Completion of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is now expected in late 2030.
- Early demolition and construction work has already begun on the new bridge.
Negotiations for the final cost of rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge are expected to commence soon, with Maryland officials advancing design and early construction phases. Initial estimates projected the project cost between $1.7 billion and $1.9 billion, with an anticipated 2028 opening. However, by November, these projections escalated sharply to between $4.3 billion and $5.2 billion, with completion now anticipated in late 2030.
Kiewit Infrastructure has been awarded a $73 million Phase 1 contract and has begun early work packages, including demolition and test pile driving. Governor Wes Moore acknowledged cost concerns but stressed the commitment to building a bridge capable of accommodating modern, large ships and to execute the project with the speed required by the moment and the Port of Baltimore.
The design for the new bridge has reached a 70% completion milestone, with 100% design expected by June. Work is progressing rapidly, with crews driving large-diameter steel pipe piles for the new bridge foundation. This accelerated progress, from 0% design to 70% in 14 months, allows for cost and schedule negotiations with contractors to proceed concurrently with ongoing design work.
