 WTOP's Mitchell Miller today on the Hill. Senator Ben Cardin says the loss of the bridge can't be overstated. This tragedy on the Francis Scott Key has been characterized as being the largest maritime claim in history. During a hearing, Cardin and Senator Chris Van Hollen pressed for lawmakers to approve 100% of the cost of a new bridge, which Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said will be significant. Preliminary estimates indicate the bridge replacement will cost approximately $1.7 billion.