MD Officials to Vote on Future of Chesapeake Bay Bridge

DELMARVA – The future of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge is up for a vote this week, with the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Board set to choose a recommended alternative for the structure on Thursday.

At 9:00 a.m. on Dec. 18, the MDTA will meet in Baltimore to vote on a proposal that has been in the works since 2024. It includes the construction of two new, four-lane bridge spans, as well as the removal of the existing Bay Bridge spans. The recommendation chosen is more commonly known as “Alternative C.”

“This recommendation is an exciting step that moves us closer to a Bay crossing that provides a smoother travel experience for those who drive over the bridge and the Marylanders who live by it,” said Maryland Department of Transportation Acting Secretary Samantha J. Biddle. “Alternative C is the option that best supports Marylanders’ current and future daily travel needs with the least environmental impact on our treasured Chesapeake Bay.”

The Bay Bridge, originally opened in 1952, currently faces a number of issues, including ship height clearance restraints and the severe influx of travelers over recent years.

Alternative C would pave the way for the widening of US 50/301 to eight lanes, with four traveling in either direction. Additionally, MDTA officials say they will be further evaulating a potential bicycle and pedestrian shared-use path in the area.

“Alternative C best fulfills the study’s purpose and need while considering environmental and financial responsibility,” said MDTA Executive Director Bruce Gartner. “Of the build alternatives, it is the most cost-effective, impacts the least amount of natural, socio-economic and cultural resources.”

Gartner also asserted that the recommendation would bring between $17 to $23 billion into the local economy, creating 61,300 to 75,600 jobs. This would create $4.2 to $6 billion in wages during the construction period.

Both the general public and agencies will have the opportunity to comment on the recommendation beginning in late Jan. 2026, with public hearings planned for the following month. However, it is anticipated that the Federal Highway Administration will not identify their selected alternative until Nov. 2026.

For additional updates and information on the proposed alternatives, click here. To attend the Dec. 18 meeting virtually, click here.