The Francis Scott Key Bridge, also known as the Outer Harbor Bridge, is a vital transportation link in Baltimore, Maryland, spanning the Patapsco River and connecting the city to Anne Arundel County.
The bridge is part of Interstate 695, which encircles Baltimore and is a key route for commuters and freight traffic.
The bridge was completed in 1977 and was named after Francis Scott Key, the author of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” the national anthem of the United States.
It is a double-deck, steel through-arch bridge, spanning approximately 1,200 feet.
The collapse of the bridge on Tuesday after being struck by a Singapore-flagged cargo ship is likely to have a severe impact on both the local economy and social fabric.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland which crosses the Patapsco River has reportedly Collapsed within the last few minutes after being Struck by a Large Container Ship; a Mass Casualty Incident has been Declared with over a Dozen Cars and many Individuals said to… pic.twitter.com/SsPMU8Mjph
— OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) March 26, 2024
The economic importance of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is significant. It serves as a critical artery for the transportation of goods and services, linking Baltimore’s industrial areas with distribution centers and ports. The bridge also facilitates commuter traffic, providing access to employment centers and residential areas on both sides of the river.
Businesses that rely on the bridge for transportation of goods may face disruptions in their supply chains, leading to delays and increased costs. Commuters who use the bridge to travel to work or access services may also experience significant inconvenience and delays.
Furthermore, the collapse of the bridge poses a risk to public safety, as emergency services may be hampered in their ability to respond to incidents on either side of the river.
The closure of the bridge could also lead to increased traffic congestion on alternative routes, further impacting businesses and residents in the area.