tests using physical and mathematical models of the proposed bridge at their Turner-Fairbanks Laboratory in Virginia. The results are being incorporated into the bridge design.
The efforts described above are used to develop the Opinion of Probable Construction Cost (OPCC) and Binding Price Proposal (BPP). MDTA has procured the services of an Independent Cost Estimating Firm (ICE) to perform estimates of the project for comparison and BPP negotiations with the Design-Builder. Cost savings workshops are being conducted to identify design elements and construction means and methods that will help manage the project cost. In addition, MDTA and the Design-Builder are developing a joint project risk register to identify major project risks and to determine mitigation strategies.
Permitting
Coordination with federal and state agencies is ongoing and will continue throughout the duration of the project. MDTA and the agencies meet regularly to collaborate on the best path forward to streamline the permitting process. The majority of state and federal permits for the project have been acquired, which authorize Design-Builder activities that include geotechnical investigations necessary to support engineering/design, demolition of the remaining structural components of the existing bridge, and construction of the new bridge. A Categorical Exclusion was prepared for the project in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and was signed by FHWA on July 23, 2024. In accordance with NEPA, re-evaluations have been prepared for various changes to the Project. On September 15, 2025, FHWA concurred that the approved Categorical Exclusion and subsequent Environmental Documentation remains valid, and preparation of additional environmental analysis is not warranted. Federal permits were obtained in compliance with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (US Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory), Section 408 of the Rivers and Harbors Appropriation Act (US Army Corps of Engineers Navigation), Section 401 of the Clean Water Act (Environmental Protection Agency’s Water Quality Certification issued by MDE through delegated authority), Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (US Fish and Wildlife Service), as well as Section 9 of the Rivers and Harbors Act (USCG 5 th District Bridge Program). In addition, consultation with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) has occurred for potential impacts to essential fish habitat, marine mammals, and endangered species. A Biological Assessment is being prepared under emergency consultation procedures with NOAA Fisheries for the Atlantic and Shortnose sturgeon and is to be submitted post- construction. In accordance with the Marine Mammal Protection Act, MDTA and FHWA coordinated with NOAA Fisheries’ Incidental Take Program due to seasonal presence of bottlenose dolphins. An Exposure Analysis for Bottlenose Dolphins was prepared for the 2025 Test Pile Program to determine if an Incidental Harassment Authorization (IHA) would be required due to underwater noise and vibration associated with driving of the test piles. On July 2, 2025, NOAA Fisheries concurred that an IHA would not be required for the Test Pile Program. Based on analysis of noise and vibration data obtained during the Test Pile Program, IHAs will be required for the Project in 2026 and 2027. Two consecutive IHAs are being sought to cover pile driving activities in 2026 and 2027.
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