BALTIMORE, MD—The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) has released its Request for Proposals (RFP) inviting design-build teams to submit proposals for rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge and reconnecting the I-695 Baltimore Beltway.

The MDTA is seeking proposals from qualified teams that advance the project’s goals of collaboration, schedule, safety, quality, cost and aesthetics. Interested bidders can access the RFP at eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA).

“Today marks a significant milestone in our efforts to rebuild the Key Bridge and make the Baltimore area whole again,” said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. “MDOT will continue to work closely with our local, state and federal partners as well as local communities to replace the Key Bridge as quickly and safely as possible.”

“The rebuilding of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore is a massive effort. We need as many partners as possible pulling in one direction to help us accomplish our goals of reconnecting communities, getting Marylanders where they need to go and supporting commerce and the movement of goods throughout our region,” said MDTA Executive Director Bruce Gartner.

For this critical project, the MDTA is using a Progressive Design-Build process that brings on board a project designer and builder to work side-by-side, resulting in greater efficiencies. The MDTA is looking to foster collaboration among the project team, local communities and stakeholders, ensuring open communication and inclusive partnership opportunities, particularly for small and disadvantaged businesses. The project scope of work and accelerated timeline will require a substantial amount of skilled labor to complete the construction expeditiously, safely and reliably.

​Key Bridge Rebuild Milestone Dates:

• Proposals Due: Monday, June 24, 2024
• Project Team Selection: Mid-to-late Summer 2024
• Project Completion: Fall 2028

The two-phase Progressive Design-Build (PDB) process emphasizes collaboration and flexibility to adapt to emerging needs and changes. The process involves a single contract that unites MDTA with the selected PDB team, which includes contractor and designer roles. This procurement will select a qualified team for initial services to develop the project scope and requirements in collaboration with MDTA and project stakeholders. Upon successful completion of Phase 1, the PDB entity will have exclusive negotiating rights for Phase 2, which includes project final design/engineering and construction. In the event a guaranteed maximum price is not agreed upon, the MDTA will deliver the work under a separate contracting mechanism.

The MDTA hosted a virtual industry forum for the rebuilding of the Key Bridge on May 7th. More than 1,700 contractors, consultants and subcontractors from across the world registered for the event. On Tuesday, June 11, the MDTA will host a virtual update for local communities, motorists and other stakeholders.

For more details on the rebuild efforts, to register for the June 11 Virtual Community Update, or to access the video and Q&A from the May 7 industry forum visit KeyBridgeRebuild.com.

Photo via Harford County Fire & EMS on X