The Biden administration has allocated $60 million in federal aid to Maryland following the deadly Baltimore bridge collapse on Tuesday. Biden told reporters the Port of Baltimore, a major U.S. shipping hub that saw record cargo volumes last year, is crucial for automobile imports and exports, with around 850,000 vehicles passing through annually.

“Fifteen thousand jobs depend on that port.  And we’re going to do everything we can to protect those jobs and help those workers,” Biden said. “The bridge is also critical to — for travel, not just for Baltimore but for the Northeast Corridor.  Over 30,000 vehicles cross the Francis Scott Key Bridge on a daily basis.  It’s virtually — well, it’s one of the most important elements for the economy in the Northeast and the quality of life.”

The Francis Scott Key Bridge, a vital component of the Port of Baltimore and regional economy, plummeted into the Patapsco River after being struck by a cargo ship, resulting in two confirmed deaths and at least four individuals presumed dead. In response, Biden pledged swift action to rebuild the bridge. 

Maryland Governor Wes Moore is concentrating on recovery and logistical efforts to reopen the port and restore this essential transportation link, including deploying the Eastern Seaboard’s largest crane for wreckage removal by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The emergency funds are designated for debris removal, detour arrangements, emergency repairs, and reconstruction.