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Maryland Drops Kiewit From Key Bridge Rebuild, Reopens Phase 2 to Bids

Federal officials say a fresh competition protects taxpayers by forcing a true market test.

Overview

  • Maryland and the U.S. Department of Transportation disclosed Tuesday that Kiewit will not lead Phase 2 after the company’s price and schedule far exceeded the state’s independent estimates.
  • The Maryland Transportation Authority will restart the competition with an industry forum in May to attract lower bids, with leaders keeping the $4.3–$5.2 billion budget as the target and warning the change could add about a year.
  • Kiewit will continue Phase 1 through the end of 2026 to drive foundation piles, build a temporary trestle, and finish demolition, and officials expect no pause in field work.
  • The company will receive about $700 million for design and early construction, and its near‑final bridge plans will be provided to the successor builder to preserve momentum.
  • The original bridge collapsed in March 2024 after the cargo ship Dali lost power and struck a pier, killing six workers and forcing longer detours and port slowdowns across Baltimore.