Maryland Transportation Authority to ‘Off-Ramp’ Progressive Design-Build Contractor for Key Bridge Rebuild Project

Work will continue as new contractors are selected

BALTIMORE (April 28, 2026) – The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA), in consultation with project partners at the United States Department of Transportation, today informed Kiewit Infrastructure Co. they will not be retained for Phase 2 construction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. Since the rebuild began, Governor Moore has been abundantly clear that the Key Bridge must be built as safely, quickly and as cost efficiently as possible. It became clear through negotiations that Kiewit’s proposal for Phase 2 construction is unacceptable, far exceeding the state’s independent cost estimates. To get the best value for taxpayers, Governor Moore has directed the MDTA to seek other contractors for Phase 2 construction.  

“At Governor Moore’s direction, MDTA will aggressively protect and advance the interests of Maryland and all taxpayers,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Katie Thomson. “The MDTA will continue to work in lockstep with the Federal Highway Administration to ensure the Key Bridge is rebuilt as quickly and as cost effectively as possible while keeping safety the priority. That is what Marylanders demand, and that is what Marylanders deserve. We will settle for nothing less.”  

Off-ramping is a standard provision included in progressive design-build contracts when a final price cannot be agreed upon. Kiewit has been executing the Phase 1 contract – including design development that progressed at historic speed from 0% to 70% in only 14 months. However, after negotiations with Kiewit, and in consultation with project partners at the United States Department of Transportation, MDTA will not retain Kiewit’s services for Phase 2 construction. In order to put the best interests of taxpayers first, MDTA will go back to the market to negotiate the best deal to deliver this bridge as quickly and safely as possible. 

“Work will not stop on the Key Bridge Rebuild project,” said Maryland Transportation Authority Executive Director Bruce Gartner. “Progress will continue, and Kiewit will fulfill their contractual obligation for Phase 1, which includes driving foundation pile and building a temporary trestle.”

Kiewit will continue the work it is contracted to perform in Phase 1. This work is expected to last at least through the end of the year. MDTA will host an industry forum this May to share additional information about next steps in the procurement process.