The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is rebidding the first phase for the $5.3 billion Francis Scott Key Bridge replacement project.
The authority released a new Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to refresh the search for a new design-build team after parting ways with the original contractor. With the request released, the MDTA will begin a two-step, competitive, sealed proposal process to procure the right candidate.
After receiving all submissions, the MDTA will shortlist qualified teams for final consideration for the project. The authority anticipates issuing the notice to proceed in summer 2027.
The contract for the first phase will be the largest of the four needed to complete the Key Bridge Rebuild project. The work will primarily revolve around building the main span bridge and marine approaches for the structure. Project details include:
- Building a cable-stayed bridge with a 1,665-foot main span and a total length of 3,365 feet, with a minimum 230-foot clearance.
- Installing two concrete pylons reaching an elevation of 602 feet.
- Implementing a vessel collision protection system at the main pylon piers.
- Building roughly 660 feet of south-approach bridge over water.
- Building roughly 1,560 feet of north-approach bridge over water.
The authority will maintain ongoing construction work while it completes the procurement process. The MDTA plans to finalize three additional contracts to build out the remaining phases of the project. These will include demolishing the remaining structures over water alongside miscellaneous marine work, building the south and approach and the north land approach.
The holistic project had previously been awarded to a company for $1.7 billion. However, rising costs and shifting designs resulted in a significantly higher budget. The authority adjusted its approach, splitting development across multiple contracts and ultimately seeking new contractors. The original contracted team will finish work that is already underway before stepping away from the project entirely.
Photo by Comptroller of Maryland Brooke Lierman, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, from Wikimedia Commons
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