The White House has confirmed that President Joe Biden will meet with state and local officials following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore, which tragically resulted in six presumed deaths and is anticipated to significantly impact the local economy, particularly the port.
President Biden is scheduled to visit the collapse site in Baltimore on Friday, where he will conduct an aerial tour of the wreckage and deliver remarks reaffirming his support for the city’s residents.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre mentioned that the president will also receive updates on response efforts from leaders of the Coast Guard and Army Corps of Engineers.
Additionally, Biden will meet with families of the victims of the bridge collapse during his visit.
Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Maryland Governor Wes Moore, and other Maryland and Baltimore officials will join President Biden during this visit, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to aiding in the recovery and rebuilding efforts.
Biden had previously pledged federal resources and funding for the reconstruction of the bridge, with Director of the Office of Management and Budget Shalanda Young urging congressional leaders to authorize a full federal cost share for the project.
The administration has established a Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force through the National Economic Council to coordinate federal assistance for affected industries.
Transportation Secretary Buttigieg highlighted the increased coordination across supply chains and efforts to strengthen infrastructure to mitigate disruptions.
Moreover, the Department of Transportation has allocated $60 million in emergency relief funds for the bridge’s reconstruction.
In 2023, the Baltimore port, adjacent to the collapsed bridge, handled a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo valued at $80 billion, generating over 15,000 direct jobs and linking nearly 140,000 jobs to port activities.
Governor Wes Moore emphasized the critical role of the port as a key shipping hub and significant source of employment in February.
President Biden’s visit underscores the administration’s dedication to supporting Baltimore’s recovery and ensuring the city emerges stronger from this tragic event.
Photo credit: NBC News
