On March 27, 2024, following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, authorities announced the opening of a temporary navigation channel to allow some commercial vessels to resume operations in and out of the Port of Baltimore.
This initiative is part of a phased approach to reopening the main shipping channel, while debris removal efforts continue at the bridge collapse site.
emporary Route for Essential Commercial Vessels
The Unified Command, overseeing the bridge collapse response, stated that the Captain of the Port has established an alternative temporary channel on the northeastern side of the main channel to facilitate essential commercial traffic.
The temporary route will be marked with navigation aids and feature:
- 11-foot controlling depth
- 264-foot horizontal clearance
- 96-foot vertical clearance
Coast Guard’s Response and Maritime Traffic Impact
Captain David O’Connell of the U.S. Coast Guard, the federal response coordinator, emphasized that this alternative passage would help restore maritime traffic flow to Baltimore. However, it remains uncertain which vessels will be permitted to use the channel, and an exact timeline for its full operational status has not yet been provided.
A 2,000-yard safety zone around the Francis Scott Key Bridge remains in effect, restricting unauthorized access. Vessels and personnel are prohibited from entering this zone without approval from the Captain of the Port.
Cause of the Baltimore Bridge Collapse
The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being struck by the cargo vessel Dali, which resulted in a complete halt of maritime traffic in the Port of Baltimore. The tragic incident led to the death of six workers who were performing maintenance on the bridge at the time of impact.
Ongoing Recovery and Salvage Operations
Recovery teams have begun the complex cleanup process, working to remove tons of steel and concrete debris from the disaster site. The Dali cargo ship, which collided with the bridge, remains stranded at the scene with all 22 crew members still aboard.
