Temporary channel opens in Baltimore to facilitate ship traffic after bridge collapse

22.04.2024

The Captain of the Port of Baltimore established the Fort Carroll Temporary Alternate Channel, which is on the northeast side of the main channel in the vicinity of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and will provide limited access for commercially essential vessels.

The Fort Carroll Temporary Alternate Channel, depicted in green, has a controlling depth of six metres, a 90-metre horizontal clearance, and a vertical clearance of 41 metres, and will facilitate additional commercially essential vessel traffic through the port.

This action is part of a phased approach to opening the main channel.

“This additional channel increases the types of vessels able to transit inbound and outbound the port of Baltimore,” said US Coast Guard Capt. David O’Connell, Captain of the Port and Federal On-Scene Coordinator, Key Bridge Response 2024. “We estimate facilitating approximately 15% of pre-collapse commercial activity.”

The current 1,830-metre safety zone around the Francis Scott Key Bridge remains in effect and is intended to protect personnel, vessels, and the marine environment. No vessel or person will be permitted to enter the safety zone without obtaining permission from the COTP or a designated representative.

“Everyday, members of the Key Bridge Response Unified Command are working tirelessly to complete the steps necessary to support full access to the Fort McHenry channel,” noted O’Connell. “The opening of this third channel represents continuous progress towards this overarching objective.”