Maryland Transportation Authority Selects Bridging Maryland Partnership for Key Bridge Reconstruction

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has chosen Bridging Maryland Partnership, a joint venture including WSP, as the general engineering consultant for the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. The bridge collapsed following a collision with a cargo ship, and the rebuild project has been deemed strategically significant.

With a $75 million contract approved by the Maryland Board of Public Works, the WSP-led joint venture, along with engineering firms Rummel, Klepper & Kahl (RK&K) and Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT), will provide planning, engineering, construction management, and program support services for the Key Bridge Rebuild project.

Pre-construction activities are already underway, and Bridging Maryland Partnership will work closely with MDTA to manage Kiewit Infrastructure Co. in completing the design and construction of the bridge under a progressive design-build contract. The team will ensure that all engineering and construction processes meet the required standards and specifications.

Accelerated Design and Construction Process

As MDTA’s engineering representative for the Key Bridge Rebuild, Bridging Maryland Partnership will oversee the accelerated design and construction process. Their support services will include risk management, cost and schedule tracking, project documentation management, and consultation with environmental regulators.

WSP has been involved in the salvage operation of the Key Bridge since the day of the collapse, showcasing their commitment to supporting MDTA in this critical project. Bridge design is currently in progress, with final details expected to be revealed soon.

Restoring a Vital Structure

Given the bridge’s importance to the region, expediency is a top priority for the reconstruction project. The collaboration between MDTA, Bridging Maryland Partnership, and Kiewit aims to deliver a safe and efficient bridge that meets Maryland’s transportation needs.

Matthew Harrell, PE, senior vice president at WSP, expressed the team’s eagerness to work on this project, stating, “We look forward to working with MDTA and Kiewit to design and construct a bridge to meet Maryland’s needs.”

Srinivas Gunna, PE, senior vice president and construction manager for the Key Bridge Rebuild project, emphasized the significance of the opportunity, saying, “This is a significant opportunity for WSP to participate in our client’s project that will deliver relief to the region and restore a vital structure after such a tragic incident — we’re honored.”

With the expertise and dedication of Bridging Maryland Partnership and its partners, the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is well underway, promising a safer and more resilient infrastructure for Maryland’s transportation network.