Biden Seeks Full Federal Funding for Key Bridge Rebuild

Biden Seeks Full Federal Funding for Baltimore Bridge Rebuild

President Joe Biden has requested nearly $100 billion in emergency relief funding, including 100% federal coverage for rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, which collapsed after a cargo ship collision in March.

In a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, Biden emphasized the federal government’s commitment to supporting communities affected by disasters. The bridge’s reconstruction is part of a broader emergency relief package targeting infrastructure damage in over 40 states and territories.

During a visit to Baltimore in April, Biden pledged to “move heaven and earth” to rapidly rebuild the bridge after the March 26 incident where the cargo ship Dali struck a support pier, killing six construction workers.

The funding request includes:

• $1.7 billion estimated for bridge replacement
• $33 million for Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund
• $79.5 million for Coast Guard operations
• $150 million for disaster relief jobs and worker support

Maryland Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin have introduced legislation to formally commit to 100% federal funding. In August, the Maryland Transportation Authority already awarded a $73 million design contract to Kiewit Infrastructure Co. for the first phase of reconstruction.

The request is part of Biden’s final efforts to deliver on infrastructure promises before leaving office, demonstrating a commitment to comprehensive disaster recovery support.