Key Bridge collapse and traffic

Traffic will be seriously impacted after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024, along Interstate 695 in Baltimore, Maryland. Following the early morning accident which was caused by a vessel that crashed into the bridge, drivers were immediately directed to take alternate routes through the city. The Maryland Transportation Authority said all lanes were closed on I-695. Most drivers can take Interstate 95, the Fort McHenry Tunnel, or Interstate 895, the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel, as alternate routes of travel. However, the Maryland Transportation Authority reminds drivers that vehicles carrying hazardous materials, including more than 10 pounds of propane, are not allowed in the tunnels. Additionally, vehicles more than 13-feet and 6-inches high or 8-feet wide may not use the 1-895 Baltimore Harbor Tunnel. Vehicles more than 14-feet and 6-inches high or 11-feet wide may not use the I-95 Fort McHenry Tunnel. Those vehicles should use the western portion of I-695 instead. An estimated 35,000 people used the bridge on a daily basis.

All vessel traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore is suspended until further notice. The Port of Baltimore handled more than $80 billion in imports and exports in 2023, according to census data.

Bridge collapse accidents are rare. A search of the internet will reveal many ship collisions causing major injuries and damages.

It is uncertain as to how the bridge collapse will affect cruises or many things in and around Baltimore and the East Coast.