The collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge has left experts uncertain about the timeline and cost of reconstruction. Factors such as the design of the new bridge and the bureaucratic process of approving permits and contracts will play a significant role in determining the duration and expense of the project. While some believe it could take as long as five to seven years, others are more optimistic, suggesting a timeframe of 18 months to two years. The urgency to rebuild is driven by the bridge’s essential role in the city’s infrastructure, including the port and the Baltimore beltway.
The Key Bridge collapse has drawn comparisons to past disasters like the Sunshine Skyway Bridge collapse in Florida. While the Sunshine Skyway Bridge took five years to rebuild, recent examples like the Interstate 35W bridge collapse in Minnesota were reconstructed in under 14 months, showcasing the potential for quick turnaround in such scenarios. Experts predict that various government agencies will work together efficiently to expedite the permitting and environmental approval process, ensuring that reconstruction moves swiftly.
Funding remains a looming issue as President Joe Biden has committed federal support for the new bridge, although this assurance is yet to materialize. Concerns about sourcing funding quickly have been raised, with references made to previous disasters like the I-35W bridge in Minnesota where emergency funding was obtained swiftly. Experts estimate that the cost of rebuilding the Key Bridge could range from $500 million to $1 billion, depending on the chosen design. Factors like the type of bridge – suspension or cable-stayed – will influence the overall expense.
Experts suggest that the actual cost of the project could vary significantly based on design choices and other factors such as the availability of materials and construction companies qualified to undertake such a project. With steel prices on the rise and a backlog for essential components like I-beams, the cost of constructing the new bridge is expected to be substantial. Additionally, the need to avoid future accidents may necessitate more complex construction methods, further adding to the overall cost of the project.
Replacing the Key Bridge is likely to be a multi-year endeavor due to the intricate process involved in design, permitting, contracting, and construction. Experts emphasize the time-consuming nature of each phase, highlighting the extensive timeline required to complete such a significant infrastructure project. While the urgency to rebuild is evident, the logistical challenges of coordinating various stakeholders and ensuring a seamless execution will factor into the overall duration of the reconstruction process. Despite the complexities involved, there is a shared determination to restore this critical transportation link in a timely and efficient manner.
