Maryland transportation officials have taken a major step toward replacing the aging Chesapeake Bay Bridge, voting unanimously to advance a plan that would construct two new bridges and remove the existing spans.
The Maryland Transportation Authority Board approved the so-called “Alternative-C” proposal on Thursday, clearing the way for a project that would add two four-lane bridges across the Chesapeake Bay. If built, the new crossing would effectively double the bridge’s current traffic capacity while modernizing safety features and improving traffic flow.
The approved plan also calls for widening U.S. 50/301 to eight lanes between Oceanic Drive and Cox Creek to better support traffic transitions to the new bridge spans.
Transportation officials said the selected alternative represents the most cost-effective option with the least environmental and community impacts, while significantly improving roadway safety. The new bridges would feature wider travel lanes and full shoulders, allowing emergency vehicles to navigate crashes or breakdowns more easily.
An economic analysis estimates the project could generate $17 billion to $23 billion in regional economic activity and support 61,300 to 75,600 jobs over its lifespan.
The project’s estimated price tag ranges from $15 billion to $17 billion. If the timeline remains on track, design work could begin as early as 2028, with construction potentially starting in summer 2032.
A proposed bicycle and pedestrian shared-use path was not included in the version approved by the board. Officials said the addition could raise costs by approximately $1 billion, prompting board members to request a cost-benefit analysis before making a final decision.
Board members emphasized that the new bridges would enhance safety and improve access to the Port of Baltimore. The replacement spans would provide 230 feet of vertical clearance, matching the height of the rebuilt Key Bridge.
“It’s rather daunting to think of taking on two very large bridges in a short period of time, one due to a disaster, the other one has been in the works for quite a while,” said board member Cynthia Penny-Ardinger, referencing the Key Bridge, which was destroyed in a container ship collision on March 26, 2024.
Penny-Ardinger added that the increased clearance would strengthen maritime access and shipping operations tied to the Port of Baltimore.
Planning for the future of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge has been underway since summer 2022, when officials launched a study evaluating seven long-term options. Starting in January, government agencies and the public will be invited to submit feedback on the approved proposal. Formal public hearings are scheduled for February.
Transportation leaders said continued public engagement will play a key role as the project moves toward final approvals and environmental reviews.
Originally reported by Alan Etter in WTOP News.
