The Port of Baltimore is a major hub for CSX Corp., and the Jacksonville-based railroad company said the March 26 collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge will affect freight shipments.
“While freight traffic has not been entirely halted in the region, certain commodities have been affected by the incident. CSX is actively communicating with customers to provide updates on their shipment statuses as the situation evolves,” the company said March 27 in an emailed statement.
The bridge, part of Interstate 695 in Maryland, collapsed after it was struck by a container ship.
“In light of the bridge collapse impacting vessel access to the port, all international intermodal shipments destined for Baltimore have been temporarily suspended. In-gated traffic originating from other locations and destined for Baltimore is on hold until further notice,” CSX said.
Intermodal shipments for local Baltimore customers have not been affected, CSX said, and the company is working on alternative solutions for international freight customers.
CSX said it has capacity to dispatch additional trains to coal terminals in Baltimore and it is working with coal customers on contingency plans for shipments.
CSX operates 1,345 track miles in Maryland and has 801 employees in the state.
“Our hearts go out to the individuals and families impacted by the tragic events surrounding the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse,” CSX CEO Joe Hinrichs said in the statement.
“The State of Maryland and the City of Baltimore have been central to our operations for nearly two centuries, and we remain deeply connected to this dynamic region. We stand in solidarity with the community during this difficult time.”