MARYLAND NEWS – Key Bridge demolition underway as Baltimore looks toward 2028 replacement

Ananya Roy, News Writer

Demolition of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge is in full swing, nearly a year after its catastrophic collapse that killed six workers and brought operations at the city’s port to a standstill. Using massive saws and backhoes, crews are slicing the remains of the 1.6-mile structure into six-foot sections to be recycled. The original bridge, which opened in 1977, was a vital artery for regional traffic and freight transport. Governor Wes Moore, visiting the site Wednesday, praised the recovery efforts while honoring those lost. “We wanted to move quickly, safely, and responsibly,” he said.

A taller, stronger cable-stayed replacement, Maryland’s first, is set to rise by 2028, though officials caution the $1.7 billion estimate may shift due to supply chain challenges and inflation. Construction will begin even as demolition continues, with early foundation tests already in progress. Designed with added protections against ship collisions, the new bridge aims to restore critical transportation and port functions to Baltimore while addressing the vulnerabilities exposed by the tragic March 26 accident.