WASHINGTON – On Friday, April 19, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) convened a meeting with the National Economic Council and leaders from ports up and down the East Coast to address supply chain disruptions following the suspension of vessel traffic at the Port of Baltimore. The meeting aimed to mitigate the impacts of the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and coordinate responses among key stakeholders.
During the meeting, DOT provided an update on the timeline to reopen the Port of Baltimore, assuring that the reopening is on schedule. East Coast port leaders shared how their operations have been affected by the increased throughput from vessels that would have originally passed through Baltimore. They have been working to accommodate the additional traffic and ensure smooth operations for Maryland-based truck drivers.
The Biden-Harris Administration's ongoing efforts involve collaboration with port leaders, labor, and industry stakeholders to minimize the impact of the disaster on workers and supply chains. This collaborative approach stems from lessons learned during previous disruptions, including those driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. DOT's data-sharing partnership, FLOW, launched in March 2022, plays a crucial role in monitoring container volume shifts and terminal utilization to anticipate goods movement and capacity needs.
The meeting was part of a series of engagements following the bridge collapse and Port of Baltimore stoppage, including sessions with truck drivers, trade associations, and supply chain stakeholders. Additionally, DOT, along with other agencies, met with agriculture and food industry stakeholders to comprehend the effects of the port's closure on regional supply chains.
Various high-level meetings have taken place, including discussions led by Secretary Pete Buttigieg, NEC Director Lael Brainard, and SBA Administrator Isabel Guzman. These engagements involve a comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by small business owners and ensure the availability of support to mitigate economic impacts. The National Economic Council's Supply Chain Disruptions Task Force continues to coordinate the administration's response to supply chain challenges.