U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Navigation staff observe the damage resulting from the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, March 26, 2024. In accordance with USACE’s federal authorities, USACE will lead the effort to clear the channel as part of the larger interagency recovery effort to restore operations at the Port of Baltimore.
by John Konrad (gCaptain) The U.S. Army has activated an emergency operations center for the Corps of Engineers (USACE) in Baltimore. This action mobilizes over 1,100 specialists in the fields of engineering, construction, contracting, and operations. These specialists will aid local, state, and federal agencies in responding to the recent collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
“Our thoughts are with those impacted by the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge,” said Baltimore District Commander Colonel Estee Pinchasin. “Our Emergency Managers are closely monitoring the incident and coordinating with partner agencies for any potential support requests.”
The Army also said it will leverage its mandate and federal authority to clear the Federal channel as part of a comprehensive interagency recovery initiative. Collaboration with local, state, and federal partners is underway to identify the best course of action for removing the fallen bridge.
Among the key resources being deployed, certified underwater assessment capabilities stand out, including services by Structural Professional Engineers who utilize Remotely Operated Vehicles and sonar technology to inspect and evaluate underwater structures thoroughly.
In addition to underwater assessments, the USACE is providing significant structural engineering support to ensure the safety and integrity of critical infrastructure. This support encompasses the deployment of certified bridge safety inspectors, alongside urban search and rescue structural technical specialists, who are tasked with evaluating and ensuring the stability and security of structures in and around Baltimore.
Addressing the challenges posed by waterway debris, the USACE has deployed the debris removal vessel REYNOLDS to patrol the waters of the Baltimore Harbor and the Patapsco River and the CATLETT, a 61-foot hydrographic and topographic survey vessel. They will focus on the identification and removal of drift and debris that pose hazards to navigation, thereby ensuring safer and cleaner waterways for Baltimore’s residents and visitors alike.
Both vessels are based in Baltimore. The USACE has not specified when it will begin deploying vessels from other regions of the country, nor if it will activate Navy salvage assets or Maritime Administration Ready Reserve ships.
The Baltimore District of the Army Corps of Engineers operates and maintains more than 290 miles of federal navigable channels within the Susquehanna River watershed, including the Fort McHenry Channel.
Join the gCaptain Club for curated content, insider opinions, and vibrant community discussions.
Join the 110,145 members that receive our newsletter.
Have a news tip? Let us know.
The U.S. Coast Guard Station Mayport responded to a dredger fire on Saturday afternoon. The fire was reported in the engine room of the Stuyvesant, a 340-foot dredger, near the...
The International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) has released its 2024 “Stats Report,” providing a detailed analysis of the global marine insurance market. The report highlights significant growth in marine...
A 17-year-old kayaker was rescued after spending nearly 10 harrowing hours adrift in the Pacific Ocean off Honolulu last week. The incident, which began as a routine high school paddling...
Access exclusive insights, engage in vibrant discussions, and gain perspectives from our CEO.
Sign Up
Maritime and offshore news trusted by our 110,145 members delivered daily straight to your inbox.
Essential news coupled with the finest maritime content sourced from across the globe.
Sign Up
Join The Club
