Recovery efforts continue following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on March 26, 2024, with ongoing investigations into the cause and long-term impacts on supply chains and transportation. As of january 26, 2026, the temporary alternate shipping channels remain operational, and construction of the permanent replacement bridge is approximately 65% complete.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
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The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed on March 26, 2024, after being struck by the container ship Dali. The incident resulted in six fatalities and a complete blockage of the Port of Baltimore’s main shipping channel.
The National Transportation Safety board (NTSB) determined the probable cause of the collapse was a loss of power to the Dali, leading to the vessel’s inability to maneuver and avoid striking a support pier. The NTSB’s final report, published July 15, 2025, detailed the sequence of events and contributing factors.
Port of Baltimore Operations
The Port of Baltimore resumed limited operations shortly after the collapse, utilizing temporary alternate shipping channels.
As of january 26, 2026, these channels are operating at approximately 75% of pre-collapse capacity.The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) provides daily updates on channel conditions and vessel traffic. In 2025, the port handled 38.2 million short tons of cargo, a 15% decrease compared to 2023, according to Bureau of Economic Analysis data.
Replacement Bridge construction
Construction of a permanent replacement for the Francis Scott Key Bridge began in September 2024.
The project,overseen by the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA), is estimated to cost $1.9 billion and is funded thru a combination of state and federal resources. The current projected completion date is late 2027. As of January 26, 2026, approximately 65% of the bridge’s foundational work and steel superstructure fabrication is complete, according to an MDTA press release issued today.
Key Contractors Involved
Several companies are involved in the bridge reconstruction. Weeks Marine, Inc.is responsible for debris removal and channel clearing, while Kiewit Infrastructure Co. is the lead contractor for the bridge’s construction. A full list of contractors is available on the MDTA website.
Legal and Financial Implications
Numerous lawsuits have been filed following the collapse, seeking damages from the shipowner, charterer, and other parties.
On December 12, 2025, a federal judge approved a $60 million settlement to cover initial claims from families of the victims. The Department of Justice announced the settlement. The total financial impact of the collapse, including lost revenue and reconstruction costs, is estimated to exceed $2.5 billion. The claim filed by the State of Maryland against the shipowner and other responsible parties is ongoing in the U.S.District Court for the District of Maryland, case number 24-cv-0841.