Overview
- Maryland Transportation Authority chief Bruce Gartner set a new projected cost of $4.3 billion to $5.2 billion, up from early estimates of $1.7 billion to $1.9 billion.
- The replacement Francis Scott Key Bridge is now slated to open by the end of 2030, two years later than the original 2028 goal.
- Design work is roughly 70% complete as crews advance demolition and conduct preliminary construction tests, including trials of 220-foot steel beams for foundations.
- Officials cite modern federal guidelines, enhanced pier-protection requirements, and tariff-driven material prices as key drivers of the higher price tag.
- Gov. Wes Moore pledged to work with the Trump administration to seek cost reductions and faster delivery, while warning motorists that I-695 detours and delays will persist.