The following article was submitted by 6th District Delegate Bob Long about the second anniversary of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.
Last Thursday March 26th marked the second anniversary of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.
As a community, we come together to reflect on that tragic day, remembering the six workers who lost their lives and saluting the extraordinary heroism of our first responders.
In the immediate aftermath, we witnessed a true all hands-on deck effort. Divers braved dangerous conditions in a desperate search for survivors, while specialized crews worked tirelessly to clear debris and reopen the ports. Their courage, strength and resilience offer us hope.
As we honor the past, we must also address our present reality. While the initial shock was devastating, the ongoing frustration of a project far from completion has become a significant daily burden.
For our commuters, longer hours on the road are more than just a waste of time, they are driving up fuel consumption and placing additional financial strain on hardworking families.
The prolonged reconstruction has also placed an economic strain on our local business community.
The shifting scope of this project is a profound concern. While the rebuild was originally estimated at $2 billion with a 2028 completion date, those figures jumped in late 2025 to a staggering $4.3 to $5.2 billion, with the timeline pushed back to 2030. These increased costs and extended delays feel like a painful setback for our community that has already endured so much.
The initial recovery efforts proved what we are capable of when we work together. We need that same level of urgency and commitment applied to the reconstruction process.
To address this, I have reached out to Secretary Duffy to advocate for an accelerated process. In January 2026, both the Secretary and Governor Moore agreed that speed and affordability are essential. It is my hope that the Governor continues to prioritize this vital partnership with the Federal Government.
As we move towards completion, I hope the project’s timeline and budget align more closely with original expectations.
Collaboration between state and federal agencies is essential to streamlining this process and preventing any further delays.
I look forward to the day when the Key Bridge is reopened, and our community is finally made whole again.