MDTA outlines Key Bridge rebuild progress as revenue shortfalls push possible toll increases and collection changes

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) told the Transportation and the Environment Subcommittee on Feb. 5 that reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is progressing quickly but that the collapse and subsequent revenue impacts have pushed MDTA’s financial forecasts toward a systemwide toll increase during the six‑year outlook unless other revenue or reimbursement timings change.

MDTA and Department of Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld described recent design and preconstruction milestones for the bridge rebuild and outlined insurance receipts, expected federal emergency‑relief reimbursements and outstanding litigation as the principal funding sources for the project.

“Demolition and construction are set to begin later this year,” Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said, noting the contractor selection, geotechnical surveys and unfolding preconstruction work. MDTA executive director Bruce Gardner said the preliminary structural design was unveiled and more detailed design and scheduling work will follow before substantial on‑site construction.

Funding, insurance and federal timing MDTA reported it received $350,000,000 in insurance proceeds from its property and…