BALTIMORE Waterways Reopen After Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
After the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge just over a month ago, four temporary channels have been opened for boat traffic in Baltimore.
More than 1,300 tons of steel have been salvaged from the site, allowing recreational boats to pass through the Key Bridge collapse salvage during specific hours on Sunday.
Larry Lewis, a seasoned boater with 20 years of experience, emphasized the significance of this opportunity for recreational boaters, not just chartering businesses.
"We have boaters and owners who are stuck on the other side of the bridge, and some who are trying to get out for maintenance and things done," Lewis said.
Traffic through the temporary channels will be strictly one-way, with outbound movements scheduled from 3:30 to 4:30 PM and inbound from 4:30 to 5:30 PM.
"There's going to be plenty of people out there that's going to be directing and keeping this a very safe and orderly passage," Lewis explained.
The recent opening of these channels marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to restore commercial activity at the Port of Baltimore. This development, which comes after the largest of four recent openings on Thursday, has already restored 15% of the pre-collapse commercial activity. The adjustment will now allow large commercial ships that were previously stuck to depart and others to enter, including vessels carrying containers, vehicles, and farm equipment.
U.S. Coast Guard Commander Baxter Smoke expressed optimism about the progress, stating that the goal of fully opening the port by the end of May remains achievable.
In addition to these advancements, a memorial event is scheduled to take place at noon on Sunday at Middle Branch Park. The event aims to honor the six men who tragically lost their lives in the collapse. Elected officials, labor unions, and other community leaders are expected to attend the gathering to pay their respects.
