In response to the catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge in March 2024, Maryland has selected engineering firm Kiewit to oversee the design and construction of a replacement structure.
Baltimore's new Francis Scott Key bridge will be longer and taller than its predecessor. Image: Key Bridge Rebuild.
The new design prioritises safety, efficiency, and resilience, departing from an earlier concept proposed by Carlo Ratti Associati.
The replacement bridge will adopt a cable-stayed configuration, maintaining four lanes like its predecessor but incorporating significant improvements. Notably, the vertical clearance will be increased from 56 metres to 70 metres, facilitating safer maritime passage.
Additionally, the span between primary support piers will expand from 368 metres to 487 metres, mitigating navigational hazards for large vessels.
With an extended total length of 3.22km, up from the original 2.74km, the bridge will feature a cable-stayed main span measuring 1,000 metres.
Engineered for durability, the structure is projected to have a minimum lifespan of 100 years, integrating modern materials and design advancements to withstand evolving transportation demands.
Symbolising resilience and urban connectivity
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott underscored the symbolic and practical significance of the new bridge within the broader recovery efforts following the tragedy.
"Moments of tragedy bring out the true spirit of not just leaders but communities,” says Scott.
Unveiling the new Francis Scott Key bridge design, he called it “an important step in recovery” and a “symbol of beauty” that will also serve as a vital connection for the city. He acknowledged the tragedy’s impact, honouring the six individuals who lost their lives.
Pre-construction evaluations are currently in progress, with the bridge slated for completion in 2028. The original Key bridge, which became operational in 1977, played a critical role in facilitating industrial connectivity and reducing congestion.
Its abrupt destruction, caused by an out-of-control container ship striking a structural column, resulted in the deaths of six construction workers and prolonged operational disruptions at the port of Baltimore.
Federal investment and advanced infrastructure measures
In August, Maryland awarded Kiewit Infrastructure a $73m contract for the initial phase of reconstruction. The project will proceed in two phases, beginning with comprehensive design and site preparation before full-scale construction commences. Governor Moore has pledged that the initiative will generate substantial employment opportunities for Maryland residents.
Maryland transportation secretary Paul Wiedefeld highlighted that the reconstructed bridge will integrate state-of-the-art pier protection technologies to accommodate the increasing size and tonnage of contemporary cargo vessels. “While this is a beautiful bridge, it will also be a working bridge for a working city,” says Wiedefeld.
The federal government has committed to funding the entirety of the reconstruction, with Congress incorporating financial provisions for the project within a recent spending bill. While legal and insurance processes will ultimately determine liability and compensation, officials anticipate that taxpayer funding will be recouped over time.
Meanwhile, the National Transportation Safety Board continues its inquiry into the bridge collapse. Preliminary analyses suggest that a malfunctioning electrical switchboard cable aboard the cargo ship Dali contributed to its loss of power, leading to the collision.
Federal authorities started a criminal investigation last year, boarding the ship to collect evidence. On the other hand, ongoing lawsuits aim to determine who is responsible for what is expected to be one of the costliest maritime disasters in US history.