Key Bridge Rebuild Forum Set for May 19, 2026
State of MD - The Maryland Transportation Authority is hosting a virtual industry forum on May 19, 2026, to share plans for rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The event runs from 2 to 3 p.m. and is open to anyone who registers in advance.
The forum will focus on how MDTA plans to divide the rebuild project into multiple contracts. That approach is designed to bring in more competition, open doors for local workers, and speed up the contract award process.
Design on the new bridge has now passed the 70% completion milestone. Officials say breaking the work into separate contracts at this stage made the most sense for keeping the project moving.
MDTA Executive Director Bruce Gartner explained the thinking behind the strategy. "This contracting strategy creates multiple opportunities for the construction and consulting community to contribute their expertise across different elements of the project," he said.
Gartner added that the goal is a broad coalition of contractors working together. "We expect the restructure of the construction opportunities will bring together a diverse range of prime contractors and subcontractors to support a coordinated and efficient rebuild effort," he said.
Getting the bridge back up is the agency's top concern. "Rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge and reconnecting the I-695 Baltimore Beltway as expeditiously and safely as possible remains a top priority for MDTA," Gartner said.
The forum will include a presentation from MDTA followed by a question and answer session. Topics will be limited to the upcoming contracting opportunities, procurement process, and contract packages.
Registration is required to attend. People can sign up and submit questions in advance at KeyBridgeRebuild.com. Materials and responses from the event will be posted online after it wraps up.
Anyone needing accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or free translation services should contact MDTA's Title VI Officer at mdtaeeo@mdta.maryland.gov or by calling 410-537-5660. Maryland Relay users can dial 711. The deadline for accommodation requests is 5 p.m. on Friday, May 15, 2026.
