DUNDALK, Md. — Governor Wes Moore announced new updates on the recovery operation and economic response since the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse.
In a news conference Saturday, the governor was joined by several state and federal leaders to announce that the bridge's recovery efforts will be ramped up to a "24/7 posture" in the upcoming days.
Gov. Moore also announced the first portions of the collapsed bridge are expected to be lifted out of the water on Saturday, marking the start of attempts to clear the channel to access the Port of Baltimore.
"This is a remarkably complex operation," said Moore. "Our focus needs to be on unity of command and unity of effort. Conditions in the water make it unsafe for rescuers. We're not just talking about weather and wind - talking about debris."
While recovery operations are ongoing, Tradepoint Atlantic, the only major shipping site outside the Francis Scott Key Bridge, is working on moving and transporting automobiles in the port.
The governor also announced that a disaster declaration is now in effect, meaning that any small businesses affected by the collapse are eligible for emergency low-interest rate loans up to $2 million to keep their businesses going.
Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen, who was also in attendance, specified a 4% interest rate over 30 years for the federal loan.
In a separate release from the U.S. Small Business Association, business recovery centers are expected to open on Monday. The recovery centers will assist business owners in completing their disaster loan applications.
These centers will operate as indicated below:
Carefirst Engagement Center
1501 S. Clinton St, Ste #100
Baltimore, MD 21224
Daily Hours: Monday- Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed: Sunday
Baltimore City Mayor’s Office of Employment Development will be on site to provide additional support and connect businesses to additional resources.
Dundalk Renaissance Center
11 Center Place
Dundalk, MD 21222
Daily Hours:Monday- Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed: Sunday
Baltimore County Department of Economic and Workforce representatives will be available onsite at the Dundalk location to provide additional support and connect businesses with resources.
Moore says the deadline to apply online for the loan is December 30, 2024.
People in Anne Arundel County have reported some of the debris in the area, according to County Executive Steuart Pittman. Pittman further explained that they were working with Coast Guard Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath to set up a hotline for people to report debris.
Later Saturday, that hotline was set up. To report bridge debris in your area, please call (410) 205-6625.
