A recent congressional agreement to prevent a government shutdown has allocated funds for the complete reconstruction of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge, a move that has drawn both applause and criticism. The bridge was severely damaged in March when the container ship Dali collided with it, disrupting supply chains for months. The cost of rebuilding is projected to be between $1.7 and $1.9 billion.
This provision, part of a short-term funding bill extending to March 14, 2025, aims to provide lawmakers additional time to finalize the 2025 fiscal year budget. However, its inclusion alongside other seemingly unrelated policy measures has sparked discontent among some House Republicans who claim they were unaware of these additions.
The image above depicts the damaged Francis Scott Key Bridge suspended on the container ship Dali following the March 26, 2024 incident. (Army Corps of Engineers/Handout via REUTERS)
House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer collaborated on the government funding agreement. (Reuters)
Maryland Democrats have lauded the inclusion of the Key Bridge funding. Rep. Kweisi Mfume celebrated securing the resources for the bridge's reconstruction, emphasizing its significance for the state. Senator Chris Van Hollen also expressed support, having previously criticized House Republicans for their initial resistance to fully funding the project.
Rep. Kweisi Mfume expressed his approval of the bridge funding measure. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
To prevent a partial government shutdown, the short-term spending bill needs approval from both the House and Senate by Friday, December 20th.
