How many weeks was the Port of Baltimore blocked from shipping after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse?

The Port of Baltimore's main shipping channel was obstructed for approximately 11 weeks following the catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The incident occurred on March 26, 2024, when the container ship Dali experienced a complete loss of power and steering, causing it to collide (Review) with a critical support pier of the bridge. The impact led to the rapid structural failure of a significant portion of the bridge, plunging it into the Patapsco River. Tragically, six construction workers who were on the bridge at the time lost their lives, though a quick mayday call from the ship's crew allowed authorities to halt traffic and prevent further casualties.

The blockage had immediate and far-reaching consequences for global supply chains and the regional economy. The Port of Baltimore is a vital hub, particularly for the import and export of automobiles, farm and construction equipment, coal, sugar, and salt. Its closure disrupted maritime traffic, forcing ships to divert to other East Coast ports and impacting thousands of jobs. The economic cost was substantial, estimated at $15 million per day.

A massive and complex salvage operation, coordinated by a Unified Command, was immediately launched to clear the wreckage. This undertaking involved removing an estimated 50,000 tons of steel and concrete from the riverbed and refloating the Dali. These immense efforts allowed for a phased reopening of the channel. The federal shipping channel was fully restored to its original depth and width on June 11, 2024, enabling normal maritime traffic to resume. The swift reopening was a testament to the dedication of numerous federal, state, and local agencies working together to mitigate the crisis.