BALTIMORE — The Francis Scott Key Bridge rebuild project is entering its pre-construction phase this week, following the devastating collapse in March 2024 that tragically claimed the lives of six workers and caused major disruptions at the Port of Baltimore.

"It's a part of us," said Maryland resident Maxine Tate. "When it fell, we heard it, but we didn't think that. Who would have thought it was a bridge?"

The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) is now conducting property inspections around the bridge's area to address concerns from approximately 1,100 homes and businesses. While property inspections aren't usual for all projects, MDTA is taking special measures to ensure the safety of local structures, particularly regarding potential basement and foundation damage.

"Pre-construction inspections are voluntary," the MDTA explained, with the process expected to conclude by February. The work will include surveying, riverbed scanning, and soil sampling. The total project is estimated to cost $2 billion and will take about four years to complete.

Local residents are still grappling with the bridge collapse. "I just felt like my whole apartment shake," said Markell Phaneuf, who witnessed the tragedy. "I can see the bridge from my window, and when I looked, there was no bridge."

On March 26, 2024, the cargo ship Dali lost power and collided with the bridge, paralyzing one of the largest ports in the U.S. The collapse had widespread effects on daily commuters who relied on the bridge.

"That's a part of growth," Tate remarked, reflecting the community's willingness to endure short-term inconvenience for the sake of long-term progress. Phaneuf echoed this sentiment, stating, "It can't be no worse than it falling."

Despite the challenges, residents like Tate and Phaneuf are hopeful for a new and improved bridge in the future.