The aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore continues to unfold as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced plans to partially reopen the shipping channel by the end of April. The full restoration of traffic is expected by late May, following a month-long process to clear the debris and ensure safe navigation.
The bridge collapse, which occurred on March 26 after a container ship collided with the structure, has had a significant impact on the Port of Baltimore, a key hub for automobile transportation that employs thousands of people. The reopening of the shipping channel is crucial for the port to resume its operations and minimize economic disruptions.
President Biden is set to visit the site of the wreckage on Friday, where he will receive a briefing on the response and recovery efforts. He will also meet with the families of the construction workers who tragically fell into the river during the collapse.
The reconstruction of the bridge is expected to be a lengthy and costly process, with estimates suggesting it could take several years to complete. The Biden administration has allocated $60 million in emergency federal highway funds to cover the initial costs, with a commitment to fully fund the rebuilding of the bridge.
As divers work to clear the debris from the channel, officials are emphasizing the complexity and potential dangers of the salvage operation. Despite the challenges ahead, the reopening of the shipping channel marks a significant step towards restoring normalcy to the Port of Baltimore and the surrounding community.
