The Maryland Transportation Authority neglected to conduct a crucial vulnerability assessment that could have highlighted the significant risk of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsing due to a ship impact, as revealed by federal investigators. The structure collapsed following a collision with the cargo ship Dali, which had lost power and strayed from its course. This tragic event resulted in the deaths of six construction workers.
During a media briefing, National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy stated that Maryland officials could have taken preventative measures to avert this disaster. The bridge’s failure not only interrupted ship traffic at the Port of Baltimore but also caused widespread traffic disruptions. Plans for a rebuilt bridge are in progress, with assurances that it will feature improved protective measures.
Investigations showed that the Key Bridge was nearly 30 times more vulnerable to collision than acceptable limits set by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. This standard has been in place since 1991 for newer bridges, and in 2009, the association reiterated the importance of assessing older bridges. Had Maryland authorities conducted this assessment at any point, they could have identified strategies to mitigate risks associated with potential ship collisions.
As of October, officials had not yet completed assessments on other vital structures, such as the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, prompting Homendy to express impatience, declaring, “There’s no excuse.” The board emphasised the need for urgent action from bridge owners across 19 states to evaluate their structures and enhance safety measures.
The Key Bridge, constructed in 1977, was designed for much smaller vessels, and its pier protection was inadequate for modern shipping traffic. A previous incident in 1980, where a container ship struck the bridge, highlighted the vulnerabilities; the ship was significantly lighter than the Dali.
The report noted that while certain existing bridge factors are hard to modify, conducting vulnerability assessments allows for informed decision-making regarding asset management and prioritising safety enhancements. Homendy has consistently called for these assessments, stressing their importance for public safety.
The investigation into the Dali’s power loss continues, revealing that a loose cable might have caused electrical issues, leading to blackouts on the vessel prior to its departure. Lawyers from the Justice Department later indicated that the ship’s systems had been poorly maintained and were “jury-rigged.” A lawsuit settled for over $100 million was filed against the owner and operator of the Dali, aiming to limit their legal liabilities in what may become one of the most costly marine casualty cases.
Further details from the ongoing investigation will be released by the board in the near future.