Francis Scott Key Bridge reconstruction costs climb to $5.2 billion as reopening shifts to 2030

Reconstruction efforts for the Francis Scott Key Bridge have entered a significantly more complex phase as updated assessments place total replacement costs between 4.3 and 5.2 billion dollars. Revised expectations extend the opening date to late 2030 due to elevated material prices and extensive safety requirements. These adjustments reflect national economic pressures alongside federal resilience standards that now govern navigation channel width, bridge height, and pier protection systems. The new span will rise to approximately 230 feet above the river to accommodate modern vessel traffic.

The reconstruction strategy has been shaped by findings from the National Transportation Safety Board, which determined that a single loose wire within the Dali’s electrical system initiated an unexpected blackout. The loss of propulsion and steering prevented corrective action as the ship drifted toward the pier. The collapse highlighted the bridge’s vulnerability to impacts from vessels that have grown substantially larger since its original completion in 1977. Investigators also emphasized the need for stronger pier protection, which is now a central design component of the replacement structure.

Current design work prioritizes compliance with contemporary structural and maritime safety standards. Wider shoulders, higher clearance, and fender systems exceeding the footprint of a football field are intended to mitigate future risks. Agencies continue to coordinate damage recovery, cost management, and legal processes while ensuring that the rebuilt crossing meets long-term transportation needs.

Information regarding the Baltimore bridge collapse after collision with container ship can be found here.

The most recent cause of collapse from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is discussed in this article.