Maryland Receives $60 Million in Federal Funding for Key Bridge Collapse Cleanup
BALTIMORE - Maryland is set to receive an initial funding of $60 million from the federal government to aid in clearing the debris left behind by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
The state submitted a request for Emergency Relief funding for mobilization, operations, and debris recovery following the tragic incident that occurred when a cargo ship collided with the bridge in Baltimore. The collision resulted in eight construction workers falling into the Patapsco River, with two confirmed fatalities and four individuals still missing and presumed dead.
Transportation Secretary Wiedefeld expressed that Maryland's emergency budget is insufficient to handle a crisis of this scale and emphasized the need for federal assistance. He stated, "We have applied for the federal dollars that are available for this type of purpose. We intend to receive some federal dollars quickly and then we will start with the design for the replacement of the bridge to the port and get the community back up and running."
Wiedefeld further added that he was hopeful for a prompt release of the $60 million to expedite the cleanup and restoration efforts.
For more details, you can access the document Maryland MDOT asks for $60 million from federal government.
During a press conference held on Wednesday, the primary focus was declared to be the removal of debris from the Patapsco River. The Army Corps of Engineers will be lending a hand in this effort to ensure that the shipping lanes can be reopened.
"Our top priority is to get the Port of Baltimore up and running again, as it is crucial for the well-being of the people in Baltimore, Maryland, and the economies worldwide," stated U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen.
President Joe Biden announced on Wednesday his plan to advocate for the federal government to cover the entire reconstruction of the bridge. He also promised to collaborate with Maryland officials to offer maximum assistance.
"I am committed to securing federal funding for the complete reconstruction of the bridge, and I anticipate the backing of Congress in this endeavor," Biden stated, expressing his intention to visit Baltimore at the earliest opportunity.
According to CBS News, the initial cost estimate of $60 million provided by the state of Maryland represents just a small fraction, approximately 10%, of the total anticipated expenses for addressing the aftermath of the disaster, as revealed during a meeting with Maryland's Congressional delegation.
The Maryland delegation discussed the likelihood of costs surpassing $1 billion and emphasized the "urgent requirement for a congressional emergency supplemental" aid package.
