Charleston Leader

The Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee convened today to discuss the response to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, which occurred on March 26, 2024. Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) delivered the opening statement.

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you for calling this hearing today to examine the response to the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, and the lessons learned, and the efforts to rebuild the new bridge," Capito began.

Capito acknowledged her colleagues' involvement, noting that incidents of this nature deeply affect states. She also expressed condolences for former chairman Jim Inhofe's recent passing. "Senator Inhofe was a true public servant, workhorse for the people of Oklahoma, the embodiment of kindness and leadership for all who knew him," she said.

Turning to the topic at hand, Capito commended the rapid and professional response from federal, state, and local agencies following the bridge collapse. She extended condolences to families of those who lost their lives in the incident.

"We are grateful that the quick action to close the bridge to traffic prevented further loss of life," she stated. Capito highlighted that more than 50 thousand tons of debris were cleared from the river by coordinated efforts between U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and U.S. Navy Supervisor of Salvage and Diving.

She noted that by June 10, commercial navigation operations resumed at Port of Baltimore after restoring federal channel dimensions.

Capito recognized General Spellmon's leadership in these efforts: "I also want to express my sincere gratitude for your service to our country."

Discussing financial aspects, Capito mentioned that $60 million in 'Quick Release' funding was disbursed within two days by Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for Maryland Department of Transportation’s recovery efforts. However, she pointed out a significant shortfall in Emergency Relief (ER) Program funding necessary for eligible projects across 38 states and territories.

"The current funding shortfall stands at more than $3.5 billion," she stated. Additionally, she highlighted a projected $284 billion shortfall over ten years in Highway Trust Fund as estimated by Congressional Budget Office (CBO).

Capito mentioned an additional supplemental appropriations request transmitted by Biden administration aimed at addressing ER Program's funding shortfall among other needs.

"My colleague Senator Cardin has introduced a bill that would provide 100 percent federal funding to replace Key Bridge," Capito said while raising concerns about equitable cost-sharing measures given Maryland DOT’s intention for new bridge toll revenue.

Capito emphasized Congress should establish an equitable basis for determining greater shares of federal funding under ER Program statutes when considering future projects.

She concluded with eagerness towards updates on Maryland DOT’s progress regarding new bridge construction including environmental review processes: "I look forward to gathering information and feedback from our witnesses on this matter."