Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 22, The estimated cost to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland, United States, has risen to as much as US$5.2 billion, significantly higher than the original projection of US$1.9 billion. The increase is mainly due to elevated material prices and the incorporation of advanced protective systems for the bridge supports.

Replacing the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge will now cost significantly more than had originally been expected

The original bridge collapsed after a container vessel lost power and struck a main pier. Although the crew issued a timely mayday alert that allowed traffic to be halted on the structure, several maintenance workers present on the bridge at the time were unable to evacuate and lost their lives. The official investigation into the incident continues.

Completion of the replacement bridge is now expected in 2030, two years later than initially planned. The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is overseeing the project. A joint venture of Kiewit Infrastructure and other partners forms the design-build team, with construction management and inspection services provided by STV and Michael Baker International, working alongside RK&K, JMT, and WSP.

The new 3.2-kilometre crossing will follow the same alignment across the Patapsco River as the previous structure, carrying Interstate 695. It will adopt a modern cable-stayed design and remain a tolled facility.

Key enhancements include a wider main span of 305 metres (compared with 213.4 metres previously) and increased vertical clearance of 70 metres (up from 56 metres). The bridge piers will be equipped with reinforced protection systems designed to withstand potential vessel impacts, significantly improving long-term safety and resilience of the structure.