Charleston Leader

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee convened today to discuss "The Response to the Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse on March 26, 2024." Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) delivered an opening statement addressing the incident's aftermath and ongoing recovery efforts.

"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.

She acknowledged her colleagues' presence and expressed sympathy for those affected by the collapse. "I want to thank my colleagues for being here. I know when something like this occurs in your state it is very deeply felt," she said.

Capito also paid tribute to former committee chairman Jim Inhofe, who passed away recently. "Senator Inhofe was a true public servant... a tradition that sent many bills to the president's desk for signature."

Turning her focus back to the bridge collapse, Capito commended the rapid response from various agencies. "I want to say how impressed I was... at the rapid and professional response to the Key Bridge collapse from everybody," she noted.

She extended condolences to families of those who lost their lives in the incident. "We are grateful that quick action prevented further loss of life," Capito added.

Capito highlighted efforts by federal agencies in clearing debris and restoring operations at key infrastructure points. "In total, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers... cleared more than 50 thousand tons of debris from the river," she stated.

She acknowledged General Spellmon’s leadership during these operations as his tenure as Chief of Engineers comes to an end soon.

On financial aspects, Capito mentioned that $60 million in 'Quick Release' funding was disbursed by Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) within two days post-collapse for Maryland Department of Transportation’s recovery efforts.

Discussing future challenges, Capito pointed out a significant funding shortfall in emergency relief programs. "As of June 25, the current funding shortfall stands at more than $3.5 billion," she said.

She stressed Congress's role in addressing these financial gaps through supplemental appropriations bills and reconsideration of statutory cost-share requirements for ER projects.

Capito referred specifically to Senator Cardin's bill proposing full federal funding for replacing Key Bridge but raised concerns about equitable cost-sharing given Maryland DOT’s revenue from tolls on similar projects like Fort McHenry Tunnel.

In closing remarks, Capito looked forward gathering feedback from witnesses regarding updates on Maryland DOT’s progress with constructing a new bridge while expediting environmental reviews and permitting processes.