Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore are conducting an assessment of the country's bridges to determine the likelihood of another disaster similar to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The team, consisting of students and faculty members, will focus on large bridges near major ports of entry.
The collapse of the steel span occurred after the container ship Dali lost power and collided with one of the bridge's supporting columns shortly after leaving Baltimore's port on March 26. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of six roadwork crew members.
Experts have highlighted various factors that made the Key Bridge vulnerable, including minimal pier protection that had not been updated in recent decades despite the increasing size and impact of cargo ships.
The researchers, led by engineer Michael Shields, will analyze the risk posed to other bridges by developing models to assess the probability of a ship deviating from its course and causing a catastrophe in or around major ports.
Johns Hopkins officials aim to provide policymakers with valuable insights from their assessment to guide future investment decisions and prioritize safety upgrades for infrastructure. Preliminary findings are expected to be released by the end of the summer, with the complete assessment anticipated to take about a year.
The National Transportation Safety Board, which is investigating the collapse, noted in its preliminary report that the Dali bypassed protective measures before bringing down the bridge.
As the investigation continues, the FBI has opened a criminal inquiry into the circumstances leading up to the Key Bridge collapse. The collapse disrupted maritime traffic through the port for several weeks and impacted East Coast trucking routes.
Efforts are underway to replace the Key Bridge, with a projected completion date of 2028 and an estimated cost of nearly $2 billion. Various funding sources, including federal support and insurance proceeds, will contribute to the rebuilding and recovery process.
A recent report by the Maryland Chamber of Commerce emphasized the significant economic repercussions of the bridge collapse and called for increased investment in transportation infrastructure to prevent similar incidents in the future.
