Bay Bridge Protection Project
The Bay Bridge Protection Project was initiated for the implementation of an enhanced bridge protection system for the William Preston Lane, Jr. Memorial (Bay) Bridge. While the bridge’s pier protection design and condition meet the requirements of the bridge’s federal permits, the project is designed based on current American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (ASASHTO) code requirements to enhance pier protection. The MDTA developed a project scope for the installation of up to 16 dolphins to provide protection to the main span piers of the Eastbound and Westbound Bay Bridges and issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) in February 2026 seeking the services of a qualified Design-Builder for a contract to provide complete design and construction of the marine-based installation of protection systems. The total project cost is estimated at $175 million, and construction is anticipated to start in Spring 2027 after the selection of the Design-Builder. Notice to proceed is anticipated in Fall 2026 which will be followed by additional geotechnical investigations, as needed, and the start of the design.
PUBLIC NOTICE
The MDTA submitted a Joint Federal/State Permit Application to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to obtain authorization for construction of the proposed pier protection at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. MDE is holding two public informational hearings to gather testimony and information to assist the MDE in its evaluation of the permit application.
The date, time and location of each hearing are:
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Monday, April 20, 6-8 p.m. Anne Arundel Community College, Arnold Campus 101 College Pkwy Arnold, MD 21012 |
Thursday, April 23, 6-8 p.m. Kent Island Volunteer Fire Department 1610 Main St Chester, MD 21619 |
For more information, please visit MDE’s project webpage at MDE Bay Bridge Protection.
Industry Forum - October 20, 2025
Presentation Slides
Additional Information:
- MDTA ISSUES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ON BAY BRIDGE - Press Release 02-02-2026 (Blog Post)
- Industry Forum Q&As (PDF)
- Industry Forum Press Release (Blog Post)
- Industry Forum Registrant List (PDF)
- Industry Forum Recording
- Industry Forum Presentation (PDF)
- Industry Forum flyer (PDF)
Who to Contact:
- Procurement Contact:
[email protected]
- Project Contact:
[email protected]