Port Baltimore reopened to business

Port Baltimore, a key logistics hub on the eastern U.S. coast, reopened its gates nearly three months after the dramatic collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge. According to CBS News, the Governor of Maryland, Wes Moore, U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Pete Buttigieg, and other leaders reported a full reopening of the port.

Opening of the Port of Baltimore: full functionality of shipping restored

Opening the main federal channel in the Patapsco River to full dimensions is an important step towards restoring the full functionality of shipping to and from port. The Ft. McHenry Channel, now with a depth of over 15 meters and a width of more than 213 metres, allows two-way movement of the largest ships, which is necessary for one of the largest ports in the US.

The demolition work, which consisted of removing more than 50,000 tons of rubble and steel elements of the bridge, was a huge challenge. On-site crews used modern technologies such as sonar, LIDAR and magnetometer to thoroughly clear the area and make sure that there are no residues that could pose a threat to navigation. Governor Moore expressed his appreciation for the team, which instead of the estimated 11 months, did the task in just 11 weeks.

Despite reopening the port, full shipping traffic will be restored gradually. Some types of cargo, including those carried by ro-ro units, are already returning to levels before the crash. Port workers, represented by trade unions, expressed their gratitude for their support during a difficult period.

Officials emphasise the importance of partnership, which was crucial throughout the process. This partnership not only allowed Dala's ship to be removed, guilty of this disaster, but also provided care to the families of six victims and support to thousands of port workers who may have lost their jobs.

However, Baltimore residents and the entire port industry face another challenge – rebuilding the Key Bridge. Maryland Transportation Administration by June 24 accepts bids to build a new bridge, the cost of which is estimated at $1.7 to $1.9 billion. The White House undertook to fully fund the project while the Maryland congressional delegation is working on passing a bill that would provide full federal support.

During a conference opening the port, MDOT secretary Paul Wiedefeld stressed that the project attracted interest from hundreds of companies from around the world. The goal is to complete the construction of a new bridge by autumn 2028. Governor Moore points out that the priority is not only the timely implementation but also the adherence to the budget.

We will continue to work with President Biden and members of Congress to realise this vision. It's an impulse. That's a promise. And we don't break our promises. We're gonna do it.

Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland

Thanks to these coordinated actions and the cooperation of all the services involved, the Baltimore port, after a short break, again plays a key role in the global supply chain, ensuring the smooth and safe movement of goods worldwide.

Written by Mariusz Dasiewicz

• The container ship has successfully towed to a port in Baltimore
• Baltimore: The last part of Francis Scott Key's collapsed bridge removed
• Progress on unlocking the Baltimore Canal