Biden greenlights Maryland gov’s $60M request for recovery efforts after Baltimore bridge collapse

The cargo ship Dali is shown after running into and collapsing the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Kena Betancur/Getty Images)

The Biden administration on Thursday announced $60 million for emergency aid to help fast-track recovery efforts in the wake of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore.

The federal aid will help pay for debris removal and other initial costs. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore’s administration made the request earlier Thursday, as he warned of a “very long road ahead.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approved the funds within hours, saying they would serve as a down payment toward initial costs. Additional Emergency Relief program funding will be made available as the work continues.

“No one will ever forget the shocking images of a container vessel striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing its collapse and the tragic loss of six people,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement. 

“The federal emergency funds we’re releasing today will help Maryland begin urgent work, to be followed by further resources as recovery and rebuilding efforts progress. President Biden has been clear: the federal government will do everything it takes to help rebuild the bridge and get the Port of Baltimore back open.”