Moore and US DOT Team Up to Fast-Track Key Bridge Construction!

“There is a sense of urgency that I possess regarding this project, as well as all our ongoing initiatives,” stated Moore, a Democrat, during a press conference on Friday. “The rapid pace at which we are reconstructing this two-mile-long bridge has been remarkable. However, that’s the kind of speed I aim to maintain for future projects as well.”

Moore emphasized that the Key Bridge rebuild, initiated after a ship collision in March 2024, is currently “the fastest major infrastructure project in the United States.”

However, he did not share an updated completion date for the undertaking.

Learn more about the destruction of Baltimore’s Key Bridge and what’s next for the project

The governor shared that significant progress has been made in discussions about how the state and federal government will share costs for the project. He noted that Maryland is “financially committed” to the reconstruction, having invested additional capital alongside insurance funds. Moore estimated that the state has contributed around $500 million towards this effort.

“Our focus is to collaborate with our federal partners to both expedite the timeline and manage costs effectively, because I am determined to see the Key Bridge rebuilt within my tenure,” he stated.

While federal regulations govern the project, Senate President Bill Ferguson from Baltimore City expressed on Friday his readiness to take immediate action to expedite construction, should any options be available at the state level.

“We need the Francis Scott Key Bridge to be rebuilt as soon as possible,” Ferguson remarked. “Safety and planning are imperative, but the escalating traffic congestion in the region and its economic impact, particularly on port communities, have been incredibly significant. It is a national and regional priority that this bridge be reconstructed.”

During their meeting, Duffy and Moore also discussed the American Legion Memorial Bridge over the Potomac River. Referring to it as a “stalled project” under the previous administration of Gov. Larry Hogan, Moore expressed his willingness to explore a public-private partnership to expedite its completion.

This initiative aims to repair the bridge deck and alleviate congestion by adding high-occupancy toll lanes.

In a joint statement released Thursday evening, both Moore and Duffy affirmed their commitment to finalize details that will ensure these vital bridge projects are completed swiftly and within budget.