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Mar 26, 2026

The tech transforming Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge

Jim Harkness, chief engineer at the Maryland Transportation Authority, explains how new technology is being incorporated to make the rebuilt bridge safer and more efficient.

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A rendering of the cable-stayed bridge that will replace the truss design of the Francis Key Scott Bridge, which was destroyed a year ago when it was hit by a container ship.
A rendering of the cable-stayed bridge that will replace the truss design of the Francis Key Scott Bridge, which was destroyed a year ago when it was hit by a container ship.
Courtesy Maryland Transportation Authority

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It's been two years exactly since the Francis Scott Key Bridge here in Baltimore was hit by a container ship, the Dali, causing it to collapse. When it fell, the state lost a well-traveled highway that served commuters as well as truckers moving goods around the port of Baltimore.

Now, the state is rebuilding the bridge. Marketplace’s Stephanie Hughes spoke with Jim Harkness, chief engineer for the Maryland Transportation Authority, about how the new bridge will incorporate new technology.

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The tech transforming Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge