Baltimore's Key Bridge Reconstruction Could Span Several Years, Cost Exceeds $400 Million

The rebuilding of Baltimore's collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge, a crucial infrastructure project following its tragic collapse earlier this week, presents a complex challenge with various factors influencing its timeline and cost, experts reveal.

While estimates vary widely, experts suggest that the reconstruction could span anywhere from 18 months to several years and could cost at least $400 million, or even double that figure.

Factors such as the design of the new bridge and the efficiency of government approval processes for permits and contracts will significantly impact the project's duration. Ben Schafer, an engineering professor at Johns Hopkins University, predicts a more extended timeline of five to seven years, highlighting the complexity involved in large-scale construction projects.

However, some experts, like Sameh Badie from George Washington University, are more optimistic, suggesting a shorter timeline of 18 months to two years for completion.

Drawing from more recent examples like the Interstate 35W bridge in Minnesota, which was reconstructed in less than 14 months, experts emphasise the importance of efficient coordination among government agencies to expedite the process.

Funding remains a significant concern, despite assurances from President Joe Biden regarding federal support. While emergency funding has been swiftly secured for similar projects in the past, the complex nature of replacing the Key Bridge could pose challenges.

With cost estimates ranging from $500 million to $1 billion, the design of the new bridge will be a critical factor influencing expenses. Additionally, supply chain disruptions and high demand for construction materials may further drive up costs.

While experts like Hota GangaRao from West Virginia University suggest cost-saving measures, such as utilising existing pier foundations, others caution that the project's complexity will inevitably lead to increased expenses, reports Economic Times.

The incident occurred on 26 March when a container ship named the Dali struck a pylon of the bridge while sailing down the Patapsco River, leading to the collapse of almost the entire structure into the water.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge, which opened in 1977, is a four-lane structure that sits 185 feet (56 metres) above the river.

The tragic incident, which claimed the lives of six workers, has prompted urgent cleanup and rebuilding efforts. The disaster has parallels to past bridge collapses, such as Florida's Sunshine Skyway Bridge in 1980, which took five years to rebuild.

As Baltimore navigates the daunting task of rebuilding the Key Bridge, the city faces a challenging road ahead, marked by uncertainty over timelines, costs, and the intricate logistics of infrastructure reconstruction.