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4w ago

Key Bridge Collapse Spurs Nationwide Focus on Bridge Vulnerability to Ship Collisions

A Johns Hopkins study reveals 20 U.S. bridges at high risk of catastrophic ship collisions, as Baltimore residents remain skeptical of reconstruction timelines.

Approaching the anniversary of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse—an image of the site today, marking a year of reflection and resilience. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)
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Overview

  • The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed in March 2024 after being struck by a cargo ship, highlighting the vulnerability of aging infrastructure to modern shipping traffic.
  • Johns Hopkins researchers have identified 20 U.S. bridges at significant risk of ship collisions, with the Huey P. Long Bridge in Louisiana deemed the most vulnerable, expecting a collision every 17 years.
  • The study attributes increased risks to larger ships and higher traffic levels compared to when most bridges were originally constructed, with some bridges facing a collision likelihood of once every few decades.
  • Recommendations include retrofitting bridges with protective barriers, such as structural dolphins, and conducting vulnerability assessments to prevent future disasters.
  • Baltimore residents continue to face disruptions from the Key Bridge collapse, expressing skepticism about the government's 2028 reconstruction timeline.