Following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland in the early hours of Tuesday morning, Gov. Henry McMaster said the state of South Carolina is ready to assist and help carry the load while the bridge is being rebuilt.
During a Tuesday press conference, McMaster stated that the Palmetto State can expect an increase in shipping coming through Charleston due to the collapse of the bridge.
“We can expect some more ships to come into the harbor and that will mean more traffic on the roads to unload and load," McMaster said. "So, I ask everyone if and when that happens, and it most likely will to have happen, to have patience and realize it’s because of the tragic situation in Maryland.”
In a joint statement, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), SC Ports Authority, and the Charleston Branch Pilots Association said the state has been preparing for this circumstance.
“Our entire maritime and logistics community works together every day to safely move freight. The South Carolina Department of Transportation, South Carolina Ports and Charleston Branch Pilots Association have already had initial conversations regarding the incident, and we will jointly review harbor operations, procedures and state infrastructure,” said the statement, which was signed by SCDOT Secretary Christy Hall, SC Ports President and CEO Barbara Melvin, and Charleston Branch Pilots Association President Crayton Walters.
According to the SC Ports Authority, there were 410,887 TEU, twenty-foot equivalent units (shipping containers) imported into the state in the first two months of 2024. With this offering of assistance, that number will rise significantly in the upcoming months.
“As a U.S. East Coast port, SC Ports and the entire maritime community stand ready to assist any ocean carrier customers and importers and exporters in this time of tragedy. We are here to offer support to ensure fluidity in the U.S. supply chains, which is critical to our economy and daily lives,” added Melvin.
The governor reiterated that he knows the increased traffic may have citizens worried when it comes to increased use of the harbors and roads.
“The Department of Transportation has taken steps and are mindful of these kinds of things and are ready,” McMaster said.
South Carolina stands ready to assist Maryland following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
— Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) March 26, 2024
Please join Peggy and me in praying for the victims and their families. https://t.co/kx9rJmaWXp
South Carolina leaders said they are ready to aid and help Maryland in recovery efforts.
South Carolina Emergency Management Director Kim Stenson said she reached out to the Secretary of Maryland Emergency Manager to offer support. She added the state has not made requests for help but SCEMD is standing by to send aid when necessary.
