A third channel is set to open this month at Baltimore's port in the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse two weeks ago. Maryland's congressional delegation is taking action to seek federal aid to cover 100% of the cost of a new bridge.
Following a meeting with state officials, Senator Ben Cardin provided an update on the situation, highlighting that two alternative channels are already operational, with a third channel expected to open soon to handle the majority of traffic into the port. Plans are in place to have the entire channel reopened by the end of May.
The bridge collapse occurred on March 26 when a cargo ship struck the structure, blocking the port's main shipping channel. Efforts are underway to secure federal funding for the replacement bridge, with legislation being proposed to ensure that the federal government covers the entire cost, similar to past instances such as the rebuilding of the Interstate 35W bridge in Minnesota.
While the exact cost of the new bridge remains uncertain and will depend on design considerations, it is crucial to meet the current demands of the port, which has seen a significant increase in cargo traffic since the bridge was originally constructed in 1975.
Tragically, six workers are believed to have lost their lives in the bridge collapse, with recovery efforts ongoing to locate the remaining missing individuals. The state is focused on supporting the affected families and providing assistance to port employees impacted by the incident.
Legislation has been swiftly enacted to aid those affected, including provisions to support small businesses, offer scholarships to the children of transportation workers who have died on the job, and ensure that necessary resources are available to facilitate the reopening of the port.
