This week, nearly nine months since the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Congress announced plans to cover the full cost of replacing the bridge.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge fell on March 26 after a ship, known as Dali, lost power twice before striking the bridge.
In October, the Department of Justice announced that the owner and operator of the cargo ship will have to pay more than $100 million to the United States. However, that money will not cover any damages for the reconstruction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
In a joint statement, U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen said Congress covering the cost of the bridge will allow it to be built as quickly as possible.
“Following the tragic collapse of the Key Bridge in Baltimore in March, we led a federal response that was both immediate and all-encompassing," said the senators in a joint statement. "...Since that day, we have fought to deliver the full support of the federal government, including 100% federal funding for the replacement of the bridge."
Six people were killed when the bridge collapsed and fell into the Patapsco River below in March. Additionally, commuters lost a port of a critical highway when the bridge collapsed, closing the Port of Baltimore.
“The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge marked one of the darkest moments in Maryland history," said Maryland Gov. Wes Moore in a statement. "Congress’ decision to work together to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge marks a key moment in Maryland’s historic recovery and proves that moving in partnership isn’t just important – it is imperative for real progress."
Now, officials look at how to make sure the bridge is rebuilt on time and on budget while litigation continues.
"At the same time, we continue pursuing litigation against the owner and operator of the Dali, to ensure taxpayers aren’t bearing the burden of recovering from this tragedy," Moore said. "And together, we will, once again, prove what it means to be Maryland tough and Baltimore strong."
Source: CBS News, WUSA 9 News
