The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has recently unveiled breathtaking 3D sonar images that provide a unique underwater perspective of the debris resulting from the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is faced with a significant challenge as it prepares to reopen a shipping channel in Baltimore’s harbor in May. The bridge, which remains largely intact underwater, serves as a clear demonstration of the obstacles that lie ahead.
The CODA sonar system captured striking color images on Tuesday, revealing the submerged sections of the bridge’s arched steel beams. The removal of these beams is necessary for the Corps to reopen the channel.
The underwater debris area was surveyed by the sonar system, under the supervision of Naval Sea Systems Command Supervisor of Salvage and Diving (SUPSALV).
The sonar image provides a detailed view of the wreckage of the bridge, located in the deepest section of the Port of Baltimore Shipping Channel. It specifically highlights one of the main supports of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
In this wider-scale image, we can see a view of the debris-covered federal channel. Additionally, on the far right of the image, one of the two temporary alternate channels created by the Corps is visible. These alternate channels are designed to accommodate empty barges, small tugboats, and survey vessels.
The metal tress framework, which can be seen at the center of the third image, is scheduled to be removed by the end of April. This removal will result in the creation of a limited access channel that is 35 feet deep and 280 feet wide. The purpose of this channel is to accommodate larger vessels that need to transit in and out of the Port of Baltimore. These vessels include marine tugs, Maritime Administration (MARAD) vessels, and those used for Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) shipping.
The image on the left displays the height measurements from the top of the underwater bridge wreckage to the surface of the Patapsco River. These measurements are crucial for engineers to effectively plan the removal of the wreckage and the dredging operations necessary to create a wider and deeper federal channel.
President Joe Biden made a visit to Baltimore last Friday to personally assess the aftermath of the collapsed bridge. During his visit, he reassured the public that the federal government is committed to covering the entire cost of constructing a new bridge. This financial proposal put forth by President Biden has received overwhelming support from congressional leaders.
