Federal Agency Approves Key Bridge Replacement Project

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has announced that the replacement of the Key Bridge will proceed without significant environmental or community impact, as it will be constructed within the existing right-of-way and maintain the same four-lane capacity. The project aims to restore the socioeconomic and transportation benefits lost with the bridge's demolition, while ensuring that no residents or businesses will be displaced. MDTA is currently seeking engineering consultant teams to submit proposals for a $75 million contract to assist in the rebuild. The selected consultant will provide essential services, including risk management, cost tracking, project documentation, and compliance oversight for Disadvantaged Business Enterprises. Interested parties can find the Request for Proposals on the eMaryland Marketplace Advantage website. Despite the positive outlook for the bridge's reconstruction, local communities continue to feel the repercussions of the previous collapse. Residents, like Courtney Speed from Turner Station, express concerns over increased heavy truck traffic on residential streets, which were not designed to accommodate such loads. Speed emphasized the need for safety and stability for future generations, stating, "Not again." The total estimated cost for the Key Bridge rebuild is $1.7 billion, with 90% expected to be funded by the federal government. Following President Biden's commitment to cover the costs, the White House included the project in a $4 billion emergency funding request. While some lawmakers advocate for full funding, others, like Senator Shelley Moore Capito, suggest that Maryland should contribute through tolls, highlighting the need for balanced funding across various national projects. A vote on the funding is anticipated after Labor Day.