Comprehensive Analysis of the Key Bridge Rebuild
The Francis Scott Key Bridge rebuild has entered a new phase -- not of construction, but of uncertainty. Let us analyze the signals, the financial constraints, the federal posture, and the procedural implications that are now converging around this project. What emerges is a picture of a megaproject that has outgrown its emergency fast‑track origins, and is now colliding with the realities of federal law, maritime liability, state fiscal limits, and the sheer complexity of rebuilding a major Interstate highway crossing in a sensitive navigational corridor and sensitive industrial harbor.
This summary brings all of that together, as of December 2025.
1. The Federal–State Dynamic: What FHWA Can and Cannot Do
One of the most important distinctions we clarified is the difference between project control and funding control.
FHWA cannot:
dictate the structural design
force Maryland to use a 1977 truss
mandate a specific vertical navigational clearance
impose a specific pier protection geometry
cap the total project cost
Maryland owns the bridge.
Maryland chooses the design.
Maryland controls the engineering.
FHWA can:
determine what portion of the project is eligible for reimbursement
challenge "betterments"
question cost increases
delay approvals
require documentation
slow‑walk NEPA or design authorization
limit federal participation to the cost of restoring the original facility
This is the heart of the federal leverage: FHWA cannot stop Maryland from building a $5.2 billion bridge, but it can refuse to reimburse the $3.3 billion increase beyond the original estimate.
That's not a "project cap."
It's a federal participation cap -- but the practical effect is similar.
Rest of article --
Comprehensive Analysis of the Key Bridge Rebuild
http://www.roadstothefuture.com/Key-Bridge-Comprehansive-Analysis.html
inb4 lock again
Dolphins are holding the citation for "impassable" hostage. We must stop them before they steal the entire English language. Think Metal Gear Solid 5, just with evil dolphins and bridges being demolished.
Quote from: 74/171FAN on January 04, 2026, 02:42:26 PMNot ruining the Maryland thread with this topic
:-D :-D :-D :-D :-D
FYI general readership -- I did not create this thread, a moderator must have moved it here.
Quote from: Beltway on January 04, 2026, 05:22:28 PMFYI general readership -- I did not create this thread, a moderator must have moved it here.
There was an eviction notice:
Quote from: 1995hoo on January 04, 2026, 05:17:23 PMQuote from: 74/171FAN on January 04, 2026, 02:42:26 PMNot ruining the Maryland thread with this topic
:-D :-D :-D :-D :-D
"'Cuz it's the song that never ends..." 🎵🎶
Quote from: Molandfreak on January 04, 2026, 05:32:35 PM"'Cuz it's the song that never ends..." 🎵🎶
Some people are just impleasable.
Quote from: Beltway on January 04, 2026, 02:42:26 PMComprehensive Analysis of the Key Bridge Rebuild
...
Rest of article --
Comprehensive Analysis of the Key Bridge Rebuild
http://www.roadstothefuture.com/Key-Bridge-Comprehansive-Analysis.html
Who wants to click the link and tell us the rest of the story?
Quote from: jeffandnicole on January 04, 2026, 05:37:41 PMQuote from: Beltway on January 04, 2026, 02:42:26 PMComprehensive Analysis of the Key Bridge Rebuild
...
Rest of article --
Comprehensive Analysis of the Key Bridge Rebuild
http://www.roadstothefuture.com/Key-Bridge-Comprehansive-Analysis.html
Who wants to click the link and tell us the rest of the story?
I would prefer an AI summarization of all the complaining Beltway does about road enthusiasts on that link.
Is citing one's own website as a source consistent with the Chicago manual?
I have a solution that will save taxpayers billions of dollars:
Baltimore's salvation! (https://www.aspendental.com/dental-services/restorative-dentistry/dental-bridges/)
Let's see how long this thread lasts. Third time's the charm?
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Examine she brother—prudent, add day ham. Far stairs now coming, bed oppose hunted, become his. You zealously departure had procuring suspicion. Books whose front would purse, if be do decay. Quitting you way formerly disposed, perceive ladyship are. Common turned boy direct and yet... Kindness to he horrible reserved ye. Effect: twenty indeed beyond for not had county. The use: him without greatly can private. Increasing it unpleasant—no—of contrasted no continuing. Nothing, Colonel: my no removed in weather. It dissimilar in up Devonshire inhabiting.
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Stet capsula, in saecula saeculorum.
Someone crashed into it again?!?
I just caught the "last edit" reason in the original post. :-D
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on January 05, 2026, 11:14:50 AMI just caught the "last edit" reason in the original post. :-D
That's why Reply #3 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=36806.msg3021393#msg3021393) is set up the way it is.
Quote from: Beltway on January 04, 2026, 02:42:26 PMLet us analyze the signals, the financial constraints, the federal posture, and the procedural implications that are now converging around this project.
(https://blainepardoe.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/deadhorse.jpg)
But what are the options in lieu of beating a dead horse? Are there alternatives to make the dead horse more functional or revive it? Here are some suggestions...
Change riders.
Appoint a committee to study the horse and its lack of performance.
Buy a bigger whip or an additional whip.
Arrange to visit other locations to see how they ride dead horses.
Lower the standards so that everyone is required to ride dead horses.
Threaten the horse to improve its performance.
Appoint a team to prepare a plan to revive the dead horse.
Blame a different rider for riding the horse to death.
Blame another horse.
Create a training session to increase our riding ability.
Compare the state of dead horses in today's business environment.
✓ Pretend the horse is not dead.Change your definitions or rules by declaring, "This horse is not dead," hence you are whipping a live horse.
Hire outside consultants to ride the dead horse.
Harness several dead horses together to increase speed and pulling power.
Get several riders to pick up and carry the horse.
Provide additional incentive funding (more sticks – more carrots) to increase the horse's performance.
Review industry knowledge to see what other riders do when their horses die.
Purchase a software package to make dead horses run faster.
Go to social media and set up a Kickstarter to raise money to revive your horse.
Revisit the performance requirements for dead horses.
Downsize the dead horse to replace it with a dead donkey.
Promote the dead horse to a supervisory position.
Promote the rider to another horse in hopes that the results will not be the same.
Shorten the track so it looks like the horse went farther before it died.
Remain on the saddle and wait for the horse to be resurrected.
Tell everyone at the stables that you believe that the horse is alive, well, and running better than ever.
Ask the horse how it feels about being dead.
Assure others that the horse's demise was always part of the plan.
Outsource all horse riding to another country.
✓ Document how the horse died and call it "knowledge legacy stewardship."Reorganize the placement of the saddle and tack on the horse with the belief that somehow the horse will ride again.
Proclaim that you never thought that horse would have gotten as far as it did and declare the ride a stunning success.
Add an additional rider or two to supervise the horse.
Pretend you never wanted the horse to be ridden in the first place.
Surround the dead horse with three other dead horses and pretend that it is merely moving with the pack.
Shoot the horse's trainer and owner.
Ignore the dead horse.
Put the same rider on a different dead horse on the same track and hope that the results are not going to be the same.
Request Federal stimulus dollars to resurrect the horse.
Blame the people watching the race for not cheering on the horse enough.
Tell everyone that, "this was never a horse race."
https://blainepardoe.wordpress.com/2015/10/22/beating-a-dead-horse/
The dolphins struck again:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FjKe2A2L.jpeg&hash=464dddaed1d50a67819df60d5c9f5d6478e06c6f)
He's making a list of all the users who are not nodding their heads in rapt attention and he's going to tell Daddy that we're being mean and he's actually full of smartyness. He has a petition with the silent majority to have us all taken down.
Quote from: PColumbus73 on January 05, 2026, 06:16:12 PMHe's making a list of all the users who are not nodding their heads in rapt attention and he's going to tell Daddy that we're being mean and he's actually full of smartyness. He has a petition with the silent majority to have us all taken down.
I'll settle for an actual verifiable citation on impleasable. All this dolphin and legacy steward stuff is on the back burner (at least for me) until that nugget is resolved.
As an aside, the forum is now the number four entry on Google when a search for "impleasable" is run. I'm hoping we can all put aside our differences to make it the number one result.
As per my personal eyewitness account this morning, the Francis Scott Key Bridge is still dead.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55026338273_6d76c0fcef_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2rQunhe)
Quote from: PColumbus73 on January 05, 2026, 06:16:12 PMHe's making a list of all the users who are not nodding their heads in rapt attention and he's going to tell Daddy that we're being mean and he's actually full of smartyness. He has a petition with the silent majority to have us all taken down.
I sure hope he doesn't call the Eureka P.D.
Quote from: kphoger on January 05, 2026, 09:57:29 PMQuote from: PColumbus73 on January 05, 2026, 06:16:12 PMHe's making a list of all the users who are not nodding their heads in rapt attention and he's going to tell Daddy that we're being mean and he's actually full of smartyness. He has a petition with the silent majority to have us all taken down.
I sure hope he doesn't call the Eureka P.D.
Unfortunately I suspect that is the case. Appealing to Alex didn't work out and as we all know the Code Name for Eureka PD's Alan Legacy Force (ALF) is "daddy."
Let's not dick around and get this thread locked like the other two! Facts, not speculation.
Quote from: Henry on January 05, 2026, 10:32:04 PMLet's not dick around and get this thread locked like the other two! Facts, not speculation.
Facts are that dolphin dick is round.
Quote from: NE2 on January 05, 2026, 10:42:17 PMQuote from: Henry on January 05, 2026, 10:32:04 PMLet's not dick around and get this thread locked like the other two! Facts, not speculation.
Facts are that dolphin dick is round.
Comprehensive analysis?
Incoming another locked thread... SMH!
inb4 lock :pan:
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on January 05, 2026, 10:20:15 PMQuote from: kphoger on January 05, 2026, 09:57:29 PMQuote from: PColumbus73 on January 05, 2026, 06:16:12 PMHe's making a list of all the users who are not nodding their heads in rapt attention and he's going to tell Daddy that we're being mean and he's actually full of smartyness. He has a petition with the silent majority to have us all taken down.
I sure hope he doesn't call the Eureka P.D.
Unfortunately I suspect that is the case. Appealing to Alex didn't work out and as we all know the Code Name for Eureka PD's Alan Legacy Force (ALF) is "daddy."
Is that why ALF hog was all over BlueSky for a while?
Quote from: freebrickproductions on January 06, 2026, 02:33:39 AMinb4 lock :pan:
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on January 05, 2026, 10:20:15 PMQuote from: kphoger on January 05, 2026, 09:57:29 PMQuote from: PColumbus73 on January 05, 2026, 06:16:12 PMHe's making a list of all the users who are not nodding their heads in rapt attention and he's going to tell Daddy that we're being mean and he's actually full of smartyness. He has a petition with the silent majority to have us all taken down.
I sure hope he doesn't call the Eureka P.D.
Unfortunately I suspect that is the case. Appealing to Alex didn't work out and as we all know the Code Name for Eureka PD's Alan Legacy Force (ALF) is "daddy."
Is that why ALF hog was all over BlueSky for a while?
I'm not on Bluesky, but probably? Remember ALF? He's back in dolphin form!
Step 1: Beltway makes a provocative statement
Step 2: Forum users are aghast
Step 3: Beltway doubles down
Step 4: Users disprove Beltway's 'evidence'
Step 5: Beltway triples down
Step 6: Users clown him.
Step 7: Beltway: "It's the user's fault for flooding the threads with nonsense and distracting from reasonable debate and not agreeing that I'm right about everything."
Step 8: Thread gets locked
Step 9: Repeat steps 1-9
Step 10: ... Profit?
We're just skipping straight to steps 5–7 these days. There's no longer any reason for steps 1–4.
Quote from: kphoger on January 06, 2026, 09:18:26 AMWe're just skipping straight to steps 5–7 these days. There's no longer any reason for steps 1–4.
Step 10 is getting made-up words into search engine optimization.
Quote from: formulanone on January 06, 2026, 10:06:12 AMQuote from: kphoger on January 06, 2026, 09:18:26 AMWe're just skipping straight to steps 5–7 these days. There's no longer any reason for steps 1–4.
Step 10 is getting made-up words into search engine optimization.
The forum is still number four on Google this morning. Yahoo hasn't caught on quite yet.
According to the Alanland Approved Lexicon of Articulations, Names, Locutions, Address, Numerology, and Definitions (Alanlandalanland):
implease [verb]
: to pleasure one's goat coitally through the introduction of one or more foreign objects, typically made of soft rubber or resinous material, into one's umbilicus or axilla
impleasable [adjective]
: possessing the ability or willingness to implease one's goat
impleasant [adjective]
: (typically of a goat,) in the state of having been recently impleased
Thank you for the actual citation. Going the extra mile certainly counts.
Quote from: formulanone on January 06, 2026, 10:06:12 AMQuote from: kphoger on January 06, 2026, 09:18:26 AMWe're just skipping straight to steps 5–7 these days. There's no longer any reason for steps 1–4.
Step 10 is getting made-up words into search engine optimization.
I'm still impressed we managed to ruin Gemini with knowledge of Alanland.
Quote from: Scott5114 on January 06, 2026, 06:18:20 PMQuote from: formulanone on January 06, 2026, 10:06:12 AMQuote from: kphoger on January 06, 2026, 09:18:26 AMWe're just skipping straight to steps 5–7 these days. There's no longer any reason for steps 1–4.
Step 10 is getting made-up words into search engine optimization.
I'm still impressed we managed to ruin Gemini with knowledge of Alanland.
I'm sure certain individuals around these parts would find that impleasable.
Quote from: Scott5114 on January 06, 2026, 06:18:20 PMruin Gemini
That is not what we've done. We have improved Gemini.
Quote from: Beltway on January 04, 2026, 02:42:26 PMLet us analyze the signals ... around this project.
I, for one, am less than enthused about how they've decided to treat this signal: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RGc8RXDMC1XtMSmL7
If any driver doesn't notice the little white regulatory sign and instead stops much farther forward than the stop line, then left-turning off-ramp traffic has precious little room to navigate their turn.
View from the off-ramp: https://maps.app.goo.gl/etQkBqKt41pMhGFZ8
Quote from: formulanone on January 05, 2026, 08:29:36 PMAs per my personal eyewitness account this morning, the Francis Scott Key Bridge is still dead.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/55026338273_6d76c0fcef_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2rQunhe)
So demolition is still ongoing; it looks like they may be done by spring, around the two-year anniversary of the collapse.
Quote from: kphoger on January 13, 2026, 02:36:26 PMQuote from: Beltway on January 04, 2026, 02:42:26 PMLet us analyze the signals ... around this project.
I, for one, am less than enthused about how they've decided to treat this signal: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RGc8RXDMC1XtMSmL7
If any driver doesn't notice the little white regulatory sign and instead stops much farther forward than the stop line, then left-turning off-ramp traffic has precious little room to navigate their turn.
View from the off-ramp: https://maps.app.goo.gl/etQkBqKt41pMhGFZ8
You're right. It's a dangerous situation. There probably should be more to channelize the turn so that traffic coming off the ramp will only go to the left lane when turning left.
Here's an example of one that does it somewhat better, although I would be happier with a barrier that is more significant than just a concrete island.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/Pacific+Palisades,+Los+Angeles,+CA/@33.9981425,-118.3694191,3a,70.8y,248.01h,64.71t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sGfBn2mRTuF_O5d9JBRX_Lg!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fcb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile%26w%3D900%26h%3D600%26pitch%3D25.29204812879432%26panoid%3DGfBn2mRTuF_O5d9JBRX_Lg%26yaw%3D248.01157639296082!7i16384!8i8192!4m6!3m5!1s0x80c2a37a08897a89:0x4f7c6b3e45e83223!8m2!3d34.0467365!4d-118.546434!16zL20vMDI3bDRx?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDExMy4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D
Quote from: Henry on January 14, 2026, 11:51:39 PMQuote from: formulanone on January 05, 2026, 08:29:36 PMAs per my personal eyewitness account this morning, the Francis Scott Key Bridge is still dead.
So demolition is still ongoing; it looks like they may be done by spring, around the two-year anniversary of the collapse.
I predict that federal funding will be capped at the original $1.9 billion estimate. This is extraordinarily generous as it is far more than any state has received for a bridge or tunnel project, and 9 times the amount for any other ER project.
The $3 billion increase is not approved by FHWA. If they grant the full amount then the requests from other states could easily average $1 to $2 billion per state, or $50 to $100 billion nationwide. That kind of funding capacity does not exist. These bridges and tunnel projects normally are funded by the state and with low or no federal funding.
There won't be any further construction activity until at least June. The project must first reach 100% design and establish an agreed‑upon baseline cost. Only after those two conditions are met can a Construction Notice to Proceed be issued.
FHWA has not approved funding for the $3 billion increase, and probably will not. Maryland will have to fund that.
Been waiting for someone to naively reply to this thread?
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on January 19, 2026, 09:23:54 PMBeen waiting for someone to naively reply to this thread?
It's been quiet here since the AI ban went into effect, just sayin'
Quote from: PColumbus73 on January 19, 2026, 09:37:01 PMQuote from: Max Rockatansky on January 19, 2026, 09:23:54 PMBeen waiting for someone to naively reply to this thread?
It's been quiet here since the AI ban went into effect, just sayin'
At this point, I would be afraid of cybergs being sent back from the future to topple a bridge near you. Here I was thinking the dolphins were evil...
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on January 19, 2026, 09:41:44 PMAt this point, I would be afraid of cybergs being sent back from the future to topple a bridge near you. Here I was thinking the dolphins were evil...
the dolphins make me cry
Quote from: kphoger on January 20, 2026, 09:19:53 AMQuote from: Max Rockatansky on January 19, 2026, 09:41:44 PMAt this point, I would be afraid of cybergs being sent back from the future to topple a bridge near you. Here I was thinking the dolphins were evil...
the dolphins make me cry
Our tears only make them stronger.
Elon Musk's "Boring Company" has a tweet offering to build a one-mile tunnel for free. I'd laugh if people nominated the Key Bridge location and Musk then actually selected that as the winning location (though I have no idea whether a tunnel there could be one mile or less once you factor in the gradient needed for truck traffic, and of course I recognize the concerns about hazmat carriers in tunnels that factor into the practicality of building one in that location).
https://x.com/boringcompany/status/2013076509624521033
Quote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 09:29:35 AMElon Musk's "Boring Company" has a tweet offering to build a one-mile tunnel for free. I'd laugh if people nominated the Key Bridge location and Musk then actually selected that as the winning location (though I have no idea whether a tunnel there could be one mile or less once you factor in the gradient needed for truck traffic, and of course I recognize the concerns about hazmat carriers in tunnels that factor into the practicality of building one in that location).
https://x.com/boringcompany/status/2013076509624521033
Plot Twist: It'll utilize the same dimensions as the Hyperloop tunnels in Las Vegas. Perfect for an Interstate highway.
God knows Elon Musk is a reasonable person who would hold on to his promise.
Quote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 09:29:35 AM(though I have no idea whether a tunnel there could be one mile or less once you factor in the gradient needed for truck traffic
Given that the portion of the bridge over water was itself a mile long, and the bridge itself around two miles, I'd say probably not.
Quote from: vdeane on January 20, 2026, 12:48:03 PMQuote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 09:29:35 AM(though I have no idea whether a tunnel there could be one mile or less once you factor in the gradient needed for truck traffic
Given that the portion of the bridge over water was itself a mile long, and the bridge itself around two miles, I'd say probably not.
They do offer pedestrian tunnels... though admittedly the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge may be a better location for such...
12' max diameter is not going to work for any public roadway. I'd say save further discussion of the tunnels for fictional. :bigass:
Quote from: ElishaGOtis on January 20, 2026, 01:10:08 PMQuote from: vdeane on January 20, 2026, 12:48:03 PMQuote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 09:29:35 AM(though I have no idea whether a tunnel there could be one mile or less once you factor in the gradient needed for truck traffic
Given that the portion of the bridge over water was itself a mile long, and the bridge itself around two miles, I'd say probably not.
They do offer pedestrian tunnels... though admittedly the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge may be a better location for such...
12' max diameter is not going to work for any public roadway. I'd say save further discussion of the tunnels for fictional. :bigass:
Just throw the wreckage of the original Key Bridge back in the river and put glass around it. Presto, you have a bridge and a tunnel...everyone is happy!
No word on what the dolphins would make of this tunnel/bridge recycling project though...
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on January 20, 2026, 01:18:37 PMQuote from: ElishaGOtis on January 20, 2026, 01:10:08 PMQuote from: vdeane on January 20, 2026, 12:48:03 PMQuote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 09:29:35 AM(though I have no idea whether a tunnel there could be one mile or less once you factor in the gradient needed for truck traffic
Given that the portion of the bridge over water was itself a mile long, and the bridge itself around two miles, I'd say probably not.
They do offer pedestrian tunnels... though admittedly the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge may be a better location for such...
12' max diameter is not going to work for any public roadway. I'd say save further discussion of the tunnels for fictional. :bigass:
Just throw the wreckage of the original Key Bridge back in the river and put glass around it. Presto, you have a bridge and a tunnel...everyone is happy!
No word on what the dolphins would make of this tunnel/bridge recycling project though...
Bill it as an 'artificial reef', boom, environmental stewardship!
Quote from: ElishaGOtis on January 20, 2026, 01:10:08 PMQuote from: vdeane on January 20, 2026, 12:48:03 PMQuote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 09:29:35 AM(though I have no idea whether a tunnel there could be one mile or less once you factor in the gradient needed for truck traffic
Given that the portion of the bridge over water was itself a mile long, and the bridge itself around two miles, I'd say probably not.
They do offer pedestrian tunnels... though admittedly the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge may be a better location for such...
12' max diameter is not going to work for any public roadway. I'd say save further discussion of the tunnels for fictional. :bigass:
It would still be funny if a bunch of people nominated it.
Quote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 02:06:38 PMQuote from: ElishaGOtis on January 20, 2026, 01:10:08 PMQuote from: vdeane on January 20, 2026, 12:48:03 PMQuote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 09:29:35 AM(though I have no idea whether a tunnel there could be one mile or less once you factor in the gradient needed for truck traffic
Given that the portion of the bridge over water was itself a mile long, and the bridge itself around two miles, I'd say probably not.
They do offer pedestrian tunnels... though admittedly the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge may be a better location for such...
12' max diameter is not going to work for any public roadway. I'd say save further discussion of the tunnels for fictional. :bigass:
It would still be funny if a bunch of people nominated it.
My first thought would be to sell them a tunnel to Hell
Quote from: PColumbus73 on January 20, 2026, 02:35:18 PMQuote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 02:06:38 PMQuote from: ElishaGOtis on January 20, 2026, 01:10:08 PMQuote from: vdeane on January 20, 2026, 12:48:03 PMQuote from: 1995hoo on January 20, 2026, 09:29:35 AM(though I have no idea whether a tunnel there could be one mile or less once you factor in the gradient needed for truck traffic
Given that the portion of the bridge over water was itself a mile long, and the bridge itself around two miles, I'd say probably not.
They do offer pedestrian tunnels... though admittedly the Verrazzano Narrows Bridge may be a better location for such...
12' max diameter is not going to work for any public roadway. I'd say save further discussion of the tunnels for fictional. :bigass:
It would still be funny if a bunch of people nominated it.
My first thought would be to sell them a tunnel to Hell
Was construction subcontracted to the Union Aerospace Corporation?
It's hard to believe that March 26 will mark the second anniversary of the bridge's collapse...
Quote from: Henry on February 23, 2026, 10:14:26 PMIt's hard to believe that March 26 will mark the second anniversary of the bridge's collapse...
Posters are ripping MDTA on their Facebook page for the lack of progress. The test piles are part of Preliminary Engineering and there has been no Construction Notice to Proceed or concrete indication of when it might occur.
I don't see any poster flare-up on MDTA's recent posts, which mainly have to do with safe driving and weather on this page, anyway:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BrnUN63bZ/
"I don't see any poster flare-up on MDTA's recent posts"
From the latest post, plenty of derision (not necessarily do I agree) --
In the book, "The Time Machine," by H.G. Wells, the time traveler goes to the year 802701.
Oddly, the Key Bridge still isn't done by that year
There's science fiction (time travel) and there's fantasy (thinking the Bridge will get built)!
I'd really love to see an accounting of the money. I can't imagine how much local politicians are making off this project.
The Cleveland Browns will win Super Bowl before this Bridge is Done. also possibly the Buffalo Bills
The Bills will have obviated their Super Bowl losses -- by winning four bowls in four years!
Maybe even the Landover Alleged Semi Professional Football Team!
Union guys standing around for photos like usual.
I'd really love to see an accounting of the money. I can't imagine how much local politicians are making off this project.
Brandon Scott and Wes Moore are funneling money out of this project through their nonprofits and will continue to do so for years. Somebody needs to pay for these expensive SUVs and take lavish trips !
I don't see the governor down there and looking at it or the idiot you got for a mayor gets stupid? He's been going to harbor for 2 years. He ain't made it yet but if you . He really be really something but he ain't getting in the water. He's got to be out of his mind.
I can't wait to see how much money will be siphoned out of this budget to some corrupt politicians that have created fictitious shell companies! Don't forget "Gov. Moore taxes" kick backs.
Quote from: Henry on February 23, 2026, 10:14:26 PMIt's hard to believe that March 26 will mark the second anniversary of the bridge's collapse...
I think you reopened Pandora's box.
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 24, 2026, 01:55:44 PMQuote from: Henry on February 23, 2026, 10:14:26 PMIt's hard to believe that March 26 will mark the second anniversary of the bridge's collapse...
I think you reopened Pandora's box.
Unfortunately, I don't see hope remaining.
Quote from: JayhawkCO on February 24, 2026, 02:23:09 PMQuote from: Max Rockatansky on February 24, 2026, 01:55:44 PMQuote from: Henry on February 23, 2026, 10:14:26 PMIt's hard to believe that March 26 will mark the second anniversary of the bridge's collapse...
I think you reopened Pandora's box.
Unfortunately, I don't see hope remaining.
Tends to happen when the box (or is it Pandora's Capsule?) is forced closed and opened a couple times.
Well, after 24 months, with no CNTP, it really can't be called an "emergency" any more. I predicted this outcome in the beginning.
At this point -- nearly 24 months later -- it's hard to keep calling this an "emergency." Emergencies are measured in days and weeks. What we have now is a multi‑year, federally funded megaproject with a fixed design, a fixed contractor, and a fixed schedule. The "emergency" label has become a rhetorical shield for decisions that would normally require full federal review.
And that's the real problem. The emergency declaration didn't just accelerate debris removal and channel reopening (which were legitimate emergency actions). It was then stretched far beyond its intended scope to justify bypassing the normal NEPA process for a permanent replacement structure. A five‑year, multi‑billion‑dollar bridge project is not emergency response -- it's capital planning. Under federal law, that level of impact and expenditure normally triggers a full NEPA Environmental Impact Statement, not a categorical exclusion (CATEX) or expedited documentation.
The result is a design that was effectively locked in before the public ever saw alternatives, before long‑term operational impacts were evaluated, and before the region had any meaningful opportunity to weigh in. That's not how NEPA is supposed to work. NEPA isn't a paperwork exercise; it's the mechanism that forces agencies to consider alternatives, disclose impacts, and justify the chosen path. When you skip that step, you skip the part where the public gets to participate.
Two years in, the "emergency" justification has outlived the emergency itself. At this stage, the project should be treated for what it is: a major federal undertaking that warrants the same full NEPA EIS process every other megaproject of this scale is required to undergo.
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 01:02:19 PMIn the book, "The Time Machine," by H.G. Wells, the time traveler goes to the year 802701.
Oddly, the Key Bridge still isn't done by that year
I don't recall much evidence of current day civilization still being around when the Morlocks were running amok in 802,701 A.D. For all you know the Key Bridge could have been rebuilt and disintegrated over the course of time. The Eloi were living in ruined communism future-tech cities and being harvested like cattle.
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 01:02:19 PM"I don't see any poster flare-up on MDTA's recent posts"
From the latest post, plenty of derision (not necessarily do I agree) --
In the book, "The Time Machine," by H.G. Wells, the time traveler goes to the year 802701.
Oddly, the Key Bridge still isn't done by that year
There's science fiction (time travel) and there's fantasy (thinking the Bridge will get built)!
I'd really love to see an accounting of the money. I can't imagine how much local politicians are making off this project.
The Cleveland Browns will win Super Bowl before this Bridge is Done. also possibly the Buffalo Bills
The Bills will have obviated their Super Bowl losses -- by winning four bowls in four years!
Maybe even the Landover Alleged Semi Professional Football Team!
Union guys standing around for photos like usual.
I'd really love to see an accounting of the money. I can't imagine how much local politicians are making off this project.
Brandon Scott and Wes Moore are funneling money out of this project through their nonprofits and will continue to do so for years. Somebody needs to pay for these expensive SUVs and take lavish trips !
I don't see the governor down there and looking at it or the idiot you got for a mayor gets stupid? He's been going to harbor for 2 years. He ain't made it yet but if you . He really be really something but he ain't getting in the water. He's got to be out of his mind.
I can't wait to see how much money will be siphoned out of this budget to some corrupt politicians that have created fictitious shell companies! Don't forget "Gov. Moore taxes" kick backs.
I don't see that in their most recent post, or in either of the two before it:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1JGX47aCLw/
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 24, 2026, 02:40:16 PMQuote from: JayhawkCO on February 24, 2026, 02:23:09 PMQuote from: Max Rockatansky on February 24, 2026, 01:55:44 PMQuote from: Henry on February 23, 2026, 10:14:26 PMIt's hard to believe that March 26 will mark the second anniversary of the bridge's collapse...
I think you reopened Pandora's box.
Unfortunately, I don't see hope remaining.
Tends to happen when the box (or is it Pandora's Capsule?) is forced closed and opened a couple times.
I think he's O. Henry without the surprise ending.
Quote from: Rothman on February 24, 2026, 04:08:17 PMI don't see that in their most recent post, or in either of the two before it:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1JGX47aCLw/
That is not the MDTA page for this project
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 24, 2026, 04:02:50 PMQuote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 01:02:19 PMMr. Poster:
In the book, "The Time Machine," by H.G. Wells, the time traveler goes to the year 802701.
Oddly, the Key Bridge still isn't done by that year
I don't recall much evidence of current day civilization still being around when the Morlocks were running amok in 802,701 A.D. For all you know the Key Bridge could have been rebuilt and disintegrated over the course of time. The Eloi were living in ruined communism future-tech cities and being harvested like cattle.
I replied to that one yesterday --
Then he travels to another future year, to find out how to get the job done, travels back, and gets the bridge built.
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 01:02:19 PM"I don't see any poster flare-up on MDTA's recent posts"
From the latest post, plenty of derision (not necessarily do I agree) --
In the book, "The Time Machine," by H.G. Wells, the time traveler goes to the year 802701.
Oddly, the Key Bridge still isn't done by that year
There's science fiction (time travel) and there's fantasy (thinking the Bridge will get built)!
I'd really love to see an accounting of the money. I can't imagine how much local politicians are making off this project.
The Cleveland Browns will win Super Bowl before this Bridge is Done. also possibly the Buffalo Bills
The Bills will have obviated their Super Bowl losses -- by winning four bowls in four years!
Maybe even the Landover Alleged Semi Professional Football Team!
Union guys standing around for photos like usual.
I'd really love to see an accounting of the money. I can't imagine how much local politicians are making off this project.
Brandon Scott and Wes Moore are funneling money out of this project through their nonprofits and will continue to do so for years. Somebody needs to pay for these expensive SUVs and take lavish trips !
I don't see the governor down there and looking at it or the idiot you got for a mayor gets stupid? He's been going to harbor for 2 years. He ain't made it yet but if you . He really be really something but he ain't getting in the water. He's got to be out of his mind.
I can't wait to see how much money will be siphoned out of this budget to some corrupt politicians that have created fictitious shell companies! Don't forget "Gov. Moore taxes" kick backs.
Echo.
I bet you'd really love to see an accounting of the money. Can you imagine how much local politicians are making off this project?
Quote from: kphoger on February 24, 2026, 05:14:05 PMQuote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 01:02:19 PM[Rothmann] "I don't see any poster flare-up on MDTA's recent posts"
I bet you'd really love to see an accounting of the money. Can you imagine how much local politicians are making off this project?
I was quoting posters -- not myself.
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 05:19:58 PMI was quoting posters -- not myself.
Two people said the exact same thing?
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 04:38:58 PMQuote from: Rothman on February 24, 2026, 04:08:17 PMI don't see that in their most recent post, or in either of the two before it:
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1JGX47aCLw/
That is not the MDTA page for this project
Gotta link? FB's search function sucks.
Quote from: Rothman on February 24, 2026, 08:20:54 PMGotta link? FB's search function sucks.
Hopefully, it will be the same link as takes you to the book where 'impleasable' was used.
Think outside the box.
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 09:03:24 PMThink outside the box.
Or prove your citations are real for a change.
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 03:46:36 PMThe emergency declaration didn't just accelerate debris removal and channel reopening (which were legitimate emergency actions). It was then stretched far beyond its intended scope to justify bypassing the normal NEPA process for a permanent replacement structure.
This is far from the first time the emergency process was used to build a permanent replacement without being delayed by the full NEPA process.
R E L A X
Quote from: vdeane on February 24, 2026, 09:44:11 PMQuote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 03:46:36 PMThe emergency declaration didn't just accelerate debris removal and channel reopening (which were legitimate emergency actions). It was then stretched far beyond its intended scope to justify bypassing the normal NEPA process for a permanent replacement structure.
This is far from the first time the emergency process was used to build a permanent replacement without being delayed by the full NEPA process. R E L A X
After two years and an incomplete final design and no CNTP, the emergency rationale has run its course. A 7-10 year megaproject is capital planning, not emergency response, and under federal practice that level of impact triggers a full NEPA EIS.
A like‑for‑like replacement of missing spans using the original bridge's plans would have fit within FHWA's ER program. In that scenario, traffic would likely be flowing today.
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 10:34:39 PMQuote from: vdeane on February 24, 2026, 09:44:11 PMQuote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 03:46:36 PMThe emergency declaration didn't just accelerate debris removal and channel reopening (which were legitimate emergency actions). It was then stretched far beyond its intended scope to justify bypassing the normal NEPA process for a permanent replacement structure.
This is far from the first time the emergency process was used to build a permanent replacement without being delayed by the full NEPA process. R E L A X
After two years and an incomplete final design and no CNTP, the emergency rationale has run its course. A 7-10 year megaproject is capital planning, not emergency response, and under federal practice that level of impact triggers a full NEPA EIS.
A like‑for‑like replacement of missing spans using the original bridge's plans would have fit within FHWA's ER program. In that scenario, traffic would likely be flowing today.
Maybe you should tell DOGE about it.
Oh wait, you did, and nobody cared.
Quote from: Scott5114 on February 25, 2026, 03:06:19 AMQuote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 10:34:39 PMAfter two years and an incomplete final design and no CNTP, the emergency rationale has run its course. A 7-10 year megaproject is capital planning, not emergency response, and under federal practice that level of impact triggers a full NEPA EIS.
A like‑for‑like replacement of missing spans using the original bridge's plans would have fit within FHWA's ER program. In that scenario, traffic would likely be flowing today.
Maybe you should tell DOGE about it. Oh wait, you did, and nobody cared.
They cared -- the project is dead in the water and drifting toward a lee shore. That's not a commentary on forum reactions; it's the predictable outcome of two years without a final design, without a CNTP, and with the emergency rationale long expired. At this point the procedural constraints are steering the ship, not anyone's opinion of them.
*chanting* Thread lock! Thread lock! Thread lock! Thread lock!
:popcorn:
Quote from: Scott5114 on February 25, 2026, 03:25:52 AMQuote from: Beltway on February 25, 2026, 03:12:50 AMThey cared
No they didn't.
Did DOGE even care enough to send him a response?
Quote from: Scott5114 on February 25, 2026, 03:25:52 AMQuote from: Beltway on February 25, 2026, 03:12:50 AMThey cared
No they didn't.
Whether anyone cared isn't really the operative variable. The project ran out of legal and procedural runway, and once that happens the outcome is determined by the process, not by sentiment. At that point, the only thing left at the end of the runway is the overrun area -- and they entered it with no remaining ability to slow or steer.
Quote from: Beltway on February 25, 2026, 03:46:38 AMQuote from: Scott5114 on February 25, 2026, 03:25:52 AMQuote from: Beltway on February 25, 2026, 03:12:50 AMThey cared
No they didn't.
Whether anyone cared isn't really the operative variable. The project ran out of legal and procedural runway, and once that happens the outcome is determined by the process, not by sentiment. At that point, the only thing left at the end of the runway is the overrun area -- and they entered it with no remaining ability to slow or steer.
If the people who could actually do anything about this didn't care, what makes you think anyone here does?
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 10:34:39 PMA like‑for‑like replacement of missing spans using the original bridge's plans would have fit within FHWA's ER program. In that scenario, traffic would likely be flowing today.
But wouldn't that just lead to another collapse when the next container ship went off course?
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 10:34:39 PMA like‑for‑like replacement of missing spans using the original bridge's plans would have fit within FHWA's ER program. In that scenario, traffic would likely be flowing today.
Quote from: GaryV on February 25, 2026, 08:00:05 AMBut wouldn't that just lead to another collapse when the next container ship went off course?
His complaint is that the bridge replacement is being rushed through, but also that it isn't being done fast enough. And that the new design isn't much safer than the original, but also that it isn't being replaced like-for-like. He's completely impleasable.
Quote from: kphoger on February 25, 2026, 09:15:38 AMHe's completely impleasable.
This is a proper encapsulation of where things stand.
Quote from: Scott5114 on February 25, 2026, 09:20:27 AMThis is a proper encapsulation of where things stand.
I see what you did there.
(https://media.tenor.com/tRW8EvcZFgIAAAAM/noice.gif)
I'm not sure why this specific topic still exists when it's just been a magnet for continued bickering, and since the last two were closed for that exact reason, but I digress
Quote from: freebrickproductions on February 25, 2026, 03:35:03 AM*chanting* Thread lock! Thread lock! Thread lock! Thread lock!
:popcorn:
Quote from: Scott5114 on February 25, 2026, 03:25:52 AMQuote from: Beltway on February 25, 2026, 03:12:50 AMThey cared
No they didn't.
Did DOGE even care enough to send him a response?
Even if he had a response letter from DOGE he wouldn't show it to anyone. Remember, Beltway doesn't believe in backing up his citations.
Quote from: Rothman on February 24, 2026, 08:20:54 PMGotta link? FB's search function sucks.
https://www.facebook.com/p/Key-Bridge-Rebuild-61558692757377/ :hmmm:
Quote from: Sapphuby on February 25, 2026, 09:39:21 AMI'm not sure why this specific topic still exists when it's just been a magnet for continued bickering, and since the last two were closed for that exact reason, but I digress
Because the Star Spangled Banner has 4 verses. We can look forward to one other thread after this one is closed.
Until construction on the replacement bridge begins, this thread should go dormant.
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on February 25, 2026, 11:20:49 AMUntil construction on the replacement bridge begins, this thread should go dormant.
There isn't much here of value that couldn't be replaced by a new thread that started with actual news.
Quote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 10:34:39 PMQuote from: vdeane on February 24, 2026, 09:44:11 PMQuote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 03:46:36 PMThe emergency declaration didn't just accelerate debris removal and channel reopening (which were legitimate emergency actions). It was then stretched far beyond its intended scope to justify bypassing the normal NEPA process for a permanent replacement structure.
This is far from the first time the emergency process was used to build a permanent replacement without being delayed by the full NEPA process. R E L A X
After two years and an incomplete final design and no CNTP, the emergency rationale has run its course. A 7-10 year megaproject is capital planning, not emergency response, and under federal practice that level of impact triggers a full NEPA EIS.
A like‑for‑like replacement of missing spans using the original bridge's plans would have fit within FHWA's ER program. In that scenario, traffic would likely be flowing today.
Do you also take issue with the new Crown Point Bridge, which was replaced via a similar emergency mechanism after the old one failed inspection and was also not a carbon copy of the original bridge?
Quote from: Beltway on February 25, 2026, 03:12:50 AMQuote from: Scott5114 on February 25, 2026, 03:06:19 AMQuote from: Beltway on February 24, 2026, 10:34:39 PMAfter two years and an incomplete final design and no CNTP, the emergency rationale has run its course. A 7-10 year megaproject is capital planning, not emergency response, and under federal practice that level of impact triggers a full NEPA EIS.
A like‑for‑like replacement of missing spans using the original bridge's plans would have fit within FHWA's ER program. In that scenario, traffic would likely be flowing today.
Maybe you should tell DOGE about it. Oh wait, you did, and nobody cared.
They cared -- the project is dead in the water and drifting toward a lee shore. That's not a commentary on forum reactions; it's the predictable outcome of two years without a final design, without a CNTP, and with the emergency rationale long expired. At this point the procedural constraints are steering the ship, not anyone's opinion of them.
Do you have any evidence that the current delays in the project was caused by your letter to DOGE? Or even had anything even remotely to do with DOGE at all?
Quote from: Beltway on February 25, 2026, 03:12:50 AMAt this point the procedural constraints are steering the ship
I see what you did there.
Quote from: kphoger on February 25, 2026, 09:51:13 AMQuote from: Rothman on February 24, 2026, 08:20:54 PMGotta link? FB's search function sucks.
https://www.facebook.com/p/Key-Bridge-Rebuild-61558692757377/ :hmmm:
I just went there, and the site replaced it with a pop-up page demanding I get Facebook.
And after all these years, I
still didn't get any letter from MDOT demanding that I pay the six bucks I owe when I crossed it in 2019.
Quote from: kphoger on February 25, 2026, 09:51:13 AMQuote from: Rothman on February 24, 2026, 08:20:54 PMGotta link? FB's search function sucks.
https://www.facebook.com/p/Key-Bridge-Rebuild-61558692757377/ :hmmm:
Quote from: kphoger on February 25, 2026, 09:51:13 AMQuote from: Rothman on February 24, 2026, 08:20:54 PMGotta link? FB's search function sucks.
https://www.facebook.com/p/Key-Bridge-Rebuild-61558692757377/ :hmmm:
Eh, lots of positive comments in there along with the negative...per usual on any big project.
Quote from: GaryV on February 25, 2026, 10:37:00 AMQuote from: Sapphuby on February 25, 2026, 09:39:21 AMI'm not sure why this specific topic still exists when it's just been a magnet for continued bickering, and since the last two were closed for that exact reason, but I digress
Because the Star Spangled Banner has 4 verses. We can look forward to one other thread after this one is closed.
There's also three question marks in the lyrics. Coincidence?
Quote from: vdeane on February 25, 2026, 01:00:56 PMDo you have any evidence that the current delays in the project was caused by your letter to DOGE? Or even had anything even remotely to do with DOGE at all?
If so, I'm going to write DOGE to get them to stop the I-81 project. Although I've never been to Syracuse, I did go to New York City once for Christmas, they're essentially the same (ducks).
Also Beltway is complaining about the bridge not being rebuilt in two years even though he personally stopped it himself.
Do you guys think Elon Musk has Beltway's letter laminated? I bet he does.
Quote from: hotdogPi on February 26, 2026, 08:10:33 AMAlso Beltway is complaining about the bridge not being rebuilt in two years even though he personally stopped it himself.
I mean, you can't chain yourself to a bulldozer
and type nonsensical AARoads forum posts at the same time.
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 26, 2026, 08:12:51 AMDo you guys think Elon Musk has Beltway's letter laminated? I bet he does.
Ridiculous. If it were laminated, then he wouldn't be able to fold it up and keep it in his wallet.
Quote from: GaryV on February 25, 2026, 10:37:00 AMBecause the Star Spangled Banner has 4 verses. We can look forward to one other thread after this one is closed.
Quote from: formulanone on February 26, 2026, 07:13:08 AMThere's also three question marks in the lyrics. Coincidence?
The first stanza has a huge run-on sentence that really should have been had a 'full stop' put in by an editor. I think that analogy fits the first Key Bridge thread pretty well, don't you? Can you imagine if you'd written this sentence in English class, but not as poetry: O say, can you see, by the dawn's early light, what so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming, whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight, o'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming? How about diagramming it?
This third thread, however, hasn't devolved into racist comments and arguments about historical slavery. If this thread really were analogous to the third stanza, then that would be all but inevitable.
The fourth thread will be immediately locked because of all the talk about God and assertions that American is a Christian nation.
what if there was no boat and the bridge just did that
Quote from: LilianaUwU on February 26, 2026, 11:30:43 AMwhat if there was no boat and the bridge just did that
We are Key Bridge
Quote from: Max Rockatansky on February 26, 2026, 11:37:15 AMQuote from: LilianaUwU on February 26, 2026, 11:32:40 AMQuote from: NE2 on February 26, 2026, 11:32:20 AMQuote from: LilianaUwU on February 26, 2026, 11:30:43 AMwhat if there was no boat and the bridge just did that
We are Key Bridge
we carry the boat
We keep it in a capsule when not in use
Is it one of those capsules that, if you submerge it in water, eventually a sponge shaped like a boat pops out of it?
The solution is simple, connect a bunch of car ferries together and let people just drive over the ferries. It'll be like a pontoon bridge. Then if there is another ship collision, it will be a boat-on-boat crime and us roadgeeks would not need to be involved.
There's a higher chance of Florida getting 80mph speed limits than this thread ever getting back on topic... (as if 75 isn't difficult enough :poke:) :coffee: :meh:
:ninja: :cheers:
Or me starting to use fewer emojis, that too! :pan:
That's why I suggested it go dormant. So much for that idea.
Quote from: Scott5114 on February 27, 2026, 01:09:34 AMQuote from: Max Rockatansky on February 26, 2026, 11:37:15 AMQuote from: LilianaUwU on February 26, 2026, 11:32:40 AMQuote from: NE2 on February 26, 2026, 11:32:20 AMQuote from: LilianaUwU on February 26, 2026, 11:30:43 AMwhat if there was no boat and the bridge just did that
We are Key Bridge
we carry the boat
We keep it in a capsule when not in use
Is it one of those capsules that, if you submerge it in water, eventually a sponge shaped like a boat pops out of it?
Don't be silly, it is a dinosaur sponge.
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on February 27, 2026, 11:24:56 AMThat's why I suggested it go dormant. So much for that idea.
*gives Henry the evil eye*
Quote from: PColumbus73 on February 27, 2026, 08:08:29 AMThe solution is simple, connect a bunch of car ferries together and let people just drive over the ferries. It'll be like a pontoon bridge. Then if there is another ship collision, it will be a boat-on-boat crime and us roadgeeks would not need to be involved.
They have the advantage of being able to move out of the way whenever marine traffic has to go by. They can just have lights to stop cars and then move once the cars on deck have stopped. In emergencies, any one of them could move, and they're easily replaceable (much easier than a new bridge, at least). Just have to hope that the ferry you're driving on reconnects in the same direction you were originally going.
What someone posted on the Key Bridge project social media page -- a full Zager & Evans "In the Year 2525" parody about the rebuild timeline. I got a good chuckle out of it. They even got the word pairs to rhyme in each stanza.
. . . . . . . . . .
In the year 2525, if the trestle's still alive, they'll still be calling pile procurement "construction underway" while Phase II waits for a GMP to arrive.
In the year 3535, if the cranes are still alive, ESP‑014 might buy a few more parts, and MDTA will swear it's progress in their charts.
In the year 4545, if the laydown yard survives, they'll still be staging barges on the Patapsco tide while federal approvals remain "under review" on the side.
In the year 5555, if the paperwork's still archived, the trestle might get half a span to call its own, but the actual bridge towers remain unpoured and unknown.
In the year 6565, if the consultants still thrive, they'll issue Update No. 900 on "progress to date," noting Phase II construction will begin once conditions are great.
In the year 7575, if the budget stays alive, the GMP might finally reach a draft stage - assuming inflation hasn't eaten the entire wage.
In the year 8585, if the bay is still alive, they'll celebrate installing a ceremonial bolt and call it "substantial completion," pending one last consultant's note.
In the year 9595, if the project can survive, the bridge might open for a single test drive - once the ESPs get one final extension to thrive.
In the year 105105, Alas Babylon! Still no Key Bridge!
In the year 2026, locking every Key Bridge thread is the only fix.