UPDATE: The I-695 detours have been shifted – details here.
Original story below.
BALTIMORE, MD—In the wake of Tuesday morning’s collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Mayor Brandon M. Scott has issued an Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency. The Executive Order mobilizes the City of Baltimore’s Emergency Operations Plan to deploy emergency resources to protect the persons affected by the incident and expands the resources available to tackle the emergency situation.
This State of Emergency is in effect as of 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, and will remain in place for 30 days, subject to renewal or cancellation as conditions warrant.
READ MORE: Coast Guard responds to Key Bridge collapse
Meanwhile, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration is assisting the Maryland Transportation Authority with traffic control related to the collapse of the I-695 bridge over the Patapsco River. Drivers are encouraged to prepare for extra commuting time until further notice.
The outer loop I-695 is closed at MD 10 (Arundel Expressway) and the inner loop of I-695 is closed at MD 157 (Peninsula Expressway). Additionally, the ramp from MD 157 to the inner loop of I-695 will be closed.
READ MORE: Port of Baltimore suspends all vessel traffic following Key Bridge collapse
Drivers should use I-95 (Fort McHenry Tunnel) or I-895 (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel) for north/south routes.
Commercial vehicles carrying materials that are prohibited in the tunnel crossings, including recreation vehicles carrying propane, should plan on using I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) between Essex and Glen Burnie. This will add significant driving time.
Rescue operations are still ongoing as at least 6 people are still reported missing following the bridge collapse. Two people were rescued from the water after a cargo ship struck the bridge at just after 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning. One person refused treatment and the other is in serious condition.
The FAA has also issued drone flight restrictions in the area of the Key Bridge.
Photo via Pixabay
