The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore on Tuesday caused major traffic disruptions, forcing drivers to use alternate routes through congested harbor tunnels. A container ship collision led to most of the bridge collapsing into the water, limiting access between major eastern U.S. cities like New York and Washington.
Approximately 35,000 vehicles crossed the Key Bridge daily, creating a significant impact on traffic flow. Residents expressed concerns about longer commutes and anticipated traffic delays lasting for months or even a year.
In response to the situation, the Baltimore County Police Department reassigned officers to manage traffic, while the Maryland Transportation Authority directed trucks carrying hazardous materials or exceeding specific dimensions to take detours. Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld announced plans to deploy additional resources to alleviate congestion.
The bridge collapse also disrupted the Baltimore Orioles’ schedule, prompting the cancellation of their open workout before the start of the baseball season. The incident underscored the far-reaching effects of the traffic disruption on the city.
On social media platforms, commuters expressed frustrations about the anticipated increase in traffic congestion and longer commute times due to the loss of the Key Bridge. The situation highlighted the need for efficient traffic management strategies and infrastructure resilience in urban areas.
EN 
DE 
FR 
RU