Baltimore's Bridge Crisis: Inside Biden's Emergency Response And Plans To Visit

By Maria Angelino | Tuesday, 02 April 2024 08:30 PM
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President Biden is scheduled to journey to Baltimore on Friday to inspect the collapsed Francis Scott Key Bridge, as confirmed by the White House on Monday.

"We are with you Baltimore and we will be there to get this done," stated White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre while disclosing the visit.

Following the bridge collapse, President Biden expressed his commitment to visit Baltimore promptly, declaring his intention to accompany Maryland Governor Wes Moore (D) during the visit.

Jean-Pierre emphasized Biden's active role in coordinating a comprehensive government response to the tragedy, emphasizing efforts to reopen the port and reconstruct the bridge in collaboration with Governor Moore.

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, located on Interstate 695, occurred when the cargo ship Dali struck it around 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday, en route to Sri Lanka.

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Despite backlash from conservative spending critics, President Biden assured that federal funds would cover the bridge's reconstruction, with an initial $16 million released by the Department of Transportation labeled as a "down payment" by Jean-Pierre.

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The White House remains engaged in discussions with Congress to secure additional aid, underscoring the President's commitment to facilitating the swift restoration of the bridge.

Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su and Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg have also been actively involved in on-site meetings and assessments following the collapse, demonstrating the administration's proactive approach to the situation.

While no specific timeline has been provided for the reopening of the Port of Baltimore, officials anticipate a prolonged reconstruction period for the bridge.

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