The Importance of a United Economy: Rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge
America’s political landscape may be more divided than ever before, but when it comes to the economy, there is no red or blue version. As Congress reconvenes following the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, it’s crucial for political leaders to acknowledge this truth. The ripple effects of this tragedy extend far beyond Maryland and Baltimore.
The Significance of the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
The bridge collapse, resulting from a container ship striking a bridge pillar on March 26, claimed six lives and brought the critical transportation corridor over the Patapsco River to a standstill. This incident caused widespread damage, affecting not only Maryland but also the entire nation.
The Economic Impact of the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
This disaster resulted in the loss of access to one of America’s largest entry points for essential goods such as sugar and large agricultural and construction equipment, including tractors, farming combines, forklifts, bulldozers, and heavy-duty trucks. With farmers preparing to plant their crops, losing access to vital equipment is a significant setback. Additionally, the bridge’s closure severely affects the automobile market, as Baltimore serves as a critical national entry point for cars and trucks, handling approximately 850,000 vehicles last year.
Recovering from the Disaster: A Collective Effort
Historically, Congress has come together to provide support in a bipartisan manner during times of national disasters. However, in recent years, disaster relief has become just another political football. In the aftermath of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, it’s essential to avoid these partisan delays and work together to ensure a swift recovery.
Immediate Financial Support for Affected Workers
First and foremost, political leaders at the local, state, and federal levels must provide immediate financial assistance to the thousands of hard-working longshoremen and other employees related to port operations who have been left jobless. This support is necessary not only for these skilled workers but also to prevent longer-term disruptions.
Expediting Debris Removal and Bridge Rebuilding
Second, there should be no debate about irrelevant issues that might delay funding for debris removal and bridge rebuilding. Rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge is essential to port operations, as well as Interstate 695 traffic, which sees 12.5 million vehicles crossing annually. It’s crucial that our economy doesn’t wait for a prolonged political or legal process to extract payment before rebuilding.
Streamlining the Permitting Process
Third, Congress must simplify the environmental and Endangered Species Act review process to expedite bridge rebuilding as quickly as possible. Any potential delays due to activist groups or lengthy legal proceedings are unacceptable.
A Precedent for Bipartisanship
There is a precedent for a bipartisan approach with minimal barriers. In 2007, the I-35W Mississippi River bridge in Minneapolis suffered a catastrophic collapse, killing 13 people. Within only a few days, the House and Senate passed legislation with unanimous consent and President George W. Bush signed it into law, providing funding for rebuilding the bridge with an expedited permitting process. The bridge was replaced and open to traffic in just 13 months.
The Importance of Unity in Rebuilding the Francis Scott Key Bridge
Recovering from a disaster should not be a partisan issue, as it affects red and blue communities alike. With livelihoods and the economy at stake, we must rise above political differences and work together to cut through the nonsense, hold both parties accountable, and get things done for the benefit of our nation.
A National Call to Action
The Francis Scott Key Bridge must rise again soon. Let us put aside our differences and come together as one nation to ensure a swift and effective recovery, rebuilding this critical national resource, and revitalizing the affected communities.
