Maryland Governor Wes Moore (D) announced on Sunday that the Dali container vessel, which collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March, will be successfully removed from the bay in a matter of days.
In late March, a container vessel collided with the Baltimore bridge, resulting in the complete collapse of the entire structure into the Patapsco River. Since then, dedicated crews have been diligently working to extract the 984-foot cargo ship from the debris-laden bridge and the river.
During an interview with NBC’s Kristen Welker on “Meet the Press,” Moore assured that the ship will be swiftly relocated from the channel. He further pledged to expedite the reopening of the channel.
He expressed his pride in staying on schedule despite initial estimates of a six to nine-month timeframe. He announced that the federal channel would be reopened by the end of May and assured that the massive vessel, the Dali, would be removed from the channel within a few days.
He added that those who are concerned about the cost should rest assured that the American people will be fully reimbursed. The main focus is to efficiently and effectively complete the task within the designated timeframe and budget.
Last week, a crew efficiently conducted a controlled demolition, swiftly sending the crumpled steel section of the grounded Dali container ship plunging into the water. This significant milestone signifies a crucial step in the extensive cleanup operation to extract the ship, which has been trapped in the river for over a month.
According to a preliminary report by the National Transportation Safety Board, the Dali encountered two blackouts shortly before colliding with the bridge in March. Additionally, the ship experienced two blackouts the day prior to the accident.
President Biden is determined to rebuild the bridge, emphasizing his commitment to the task by stating that he will “move heaven and Earth.” He has set a goal of reopening the full channel by the end of May.