Michaela Knott News Today

A product of 1970s, the Key Bridge’s defenses weren't upgraded to handle the risks posed by 21st-century shipping.

When the Francis Scott Key Bridge was inspected in May 2021, its railings and guardrails met modern standards. Its foundations were “stable” and didn’t show signs of erosion at the riverbed. Protection around its piers was “functioning.” It wasn’t, however, assessed for its ability to withstand a collision from a vessel.

BALTIMORE — When the Francis Scott Key Bridge was inspected in May 2021, it earned high marks. Its railings and guardrails met modern standards. Its foundations were “stable” and didn’t show signs of erosion at the riverbed. The protection around its piers was “functioning,” the best grade in that category. It wasn’t, however, assessed for its ability to withstand a collision from a vessel. A ...