AAPA Seaports
In the wake of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, various organizations and governmental bodies have mobilized to offer support, legislate emergency aid, and ensure the continuity of port operations. Efforts include a significant financial commitment by the Biden-Harris administration, legislative action in Maryland to support affected workers and businesses, and proactive measures by ports in Virginia and Philadelphia to manage cargo diversion and assist in recovery.
Maryland Responds to Bridge Collapse with Financial Aid and Port Recovery Efforts
Efforts are underway to clear the channel near the Francis Scott Key Bridge, with state lawmakers pushing the Maryland PORT Act to provide financial relief to affected workers and businesses. A limited, temporary channel has been opened, and a scholarship program is proposed for families of lost transportation workers, highlighting the importance of the port and unified efforts for recovery.
Maryland Legislators Advance PORT Act to Support Jobs After Bridge Collapse
Maryland legislators are rapidly advancing the PORT Act to support jobs impacted by the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. This emergency bill aims to assist over 15,000 port workers and an additional 140,000 related jobs, supplementing unemployment benefits with rainy day funds. Small businesses like HHAL Logistics also anticipate receiving temporary relief to continue operations despite the port’s closure.
$60 Million in Emergency Funds Released for Key Bridge Rebuild
The Biden-Harris administration has announced the allocation of $60 million in Emergency Relief funds for the Maryland Department of Transportation to begin reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after a ship collision caused its collapse. This funding, intended as an initial down payment, will aid in urgent repair efforts, with additional support expected as reconstruction progresses. The collapse has halted shipping traffic and affected regional and national supply chains, prompting a coordinated response to manage the impact and rebuild the critical infrastructure.
For more information, visit the FHWA page.
Governor Moore Declares State of Emergency Following Key Bridge Collapse
Governor Wes Moore announced a State of Emergency in Maryland following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, working with local, state, and federal officials, including U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, for emergency response and to deploy federal resources. Moore expressed gratitude for the emergency personnel’s efforts and emphasized the state’s close coordination with federal and local entities to manage the situation.
Port of Virginia Responds to Baltimore Bridge Collapse and Offers Support
The Port of Virginia expressed deep sorrow over the collision at the Port of Baltimore involving the mv. Dali and the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, offering condolences to those affected. They are coordinating with ocean carriers to assist and are prepared to handle surges in import and export cargo to support the Port of Baltimore.
PhilaPort Offers Updates and Support in Wake of Key Bridge Collapse
PhilaPort is closely monitoring the situation following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, offering thoughts and prayers to those affected. The port is coordinating on cargo diversion inquiries and directs stakeholders to Holt Logistics for container status and further operational details. PhilaPort commits to providing updates as the situation develops.