Baltimore Bridge Collapse

March 26, 2024 – 

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore known as Baltimore Bridge, was a remarkable engineering feat, characterized by its distinctive design and structural elements. Here’s an exploration of the type of bridge it was

Francis Scott Key Bridge Description:

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was a steel arch continuous through truss bridge that spanned the lower Patapsco River and outer Baltimore Harbor/Port. Its design incorporated steel trusses, which are rigid frameworks consisting of straight members connected by joints, to support the roadway and distribute loads.

Material of the Baltimore Bridge

The prominent feature of the Francis Scott Key Bridge was its steel arch design. Arch bridges are renowned for their ability to carry loads over long spans by transferring weight outward and downwards through their arches. The arches of the Key Bridge provided structural support, allowing it to span the Patapsco River with strength and stability.

The design of the Key Bridge refers to the arrangement of its truss structure, where the trusses extend continuously from one end of the bridge to the other. Truss bridges utilize triangular units (trusses) to provide support and distribute loads effectively.

In the case of the Key Bridge, the trusses formed a continuous framework, enhancing the bridge’s strength and resilience.

Spanning the Patapsco River:

Spanning approximately 1.6 miles, the Francis Scott Key Bridge crossed over the Patapsco River, serving as a vital link in Baltimore’s transportation network. Its robust steel arch continuous through truss design allowed it to withstand the river’s dynamic forces and safely accommodate vehicular traffic.

Collapse of Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore

In the early hours of March 26, 2024, tragedy struck as the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship. The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 a.m. local time when the vessel was leaving the Port of Baltimore.

Emergency responders swiftly mobilized to the scene, where they were met with the daunting task of rescue and recovery. Two individuals were successfully retrieved from the water, but tragically, six workers remain missing and are presumed dead. The U.S. Coast Guard, along with state and local agencies, coordinated efforts to locate the missing individuals, but rescue operations have since been transitioned to recovery.

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has sent shockwaves throughout the city, prompting a federal investigation into the cause of the incident. Preliminary reports indicate that the cargo ship’s impact caused a partial structure collapse, leading to vehicles and a construction crew falling into the Patapsco River.

As Baltimore mourns the loss and awaits answers, Governor Wes Moore has vowed to utilize every available resource to support the affected families and ensure a thorough investigation into the tragedy.

In this case, we can understand the need for Passive Defense in Architectural and Engineering Design for any structure or infrastructure that makes the designer think about any potential future damages caused by nature or humans.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore structure details and construction Background

Structure Details:

The Francis Scott Key Bridge was a steel arch continuous through truss bridge, connecting the lower Patapsco River and outer Baltimore Harbor. This design incorporated steel arches and trusses, providing robust support for the roadway while allowing for a visually striking appearance. The bridge spanned approximately 1.6 miles, making it a prominent feature of Baltimore’s skyline.

Source: American Society of Civil Engineers

Construction Background:

The construction of the Francis Scott Key Bridge began in the mid-1970s as part of the Interstate 695 (Baltimore Beltway) project. It served as the final link in the beltway system, enhancing regional transportation connectivity. The construction process involved meticulous planning and execution to ensure structural integrity and safety. The bridge’s location near the site where Francis Scott Key witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry in 1814 added historical significance to its construction.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore was more than just a Bridge:

Beyond its practical function as a transportation route, the Francis Scott Key Bridge held cultural and historical importance for Baltimore residents. Named after the author of the “Star-Spangled Banner,” it served as a reminder of the city’s rich heritage and patriotic spirit. The completion of the bridge represented a milestone in Baltimore’s development, facilitating economic growth and fostering regional connectivity.

If you Like to read more about other types of Bridge Design and their details you can click here