The collapse of Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge has caused a major disruption in the vital port's main shipping channel, with crews working to open temporary channels to allow limited marine traffic to bypass the wreckage. A tugboat pushing a fuel barge was the first vessel to use an alternate channel, supplying jet fuel to Delaware's Dover Air Force Base. Gov. Wes Moore emphasized the importance of recovering the bodies of the four construction workers believed to be trapped underwater in the wreckage, but rough weather conditions have made it unsafe for divers to conduct the operation.

Small businesses in the area are feeling the immediate economic effects of the collapse, with the Small Business Administration opening centers to help companies get loans to assist with losses. Sen. Ben Cardin highlighted the impact on truck drivers and other businesses reliant on the port for their operations. Local business owner Alex Del Sordo is considering applying for a low-interest loan as he anticipates a decrease in pleasure boating due to boats being temporarily trapped in the harbor.

In Annapolis, a hearing was scheduled for a bill authorizing the use of the state's rainy day fund to help port employees and small businesses affected by the collapse. President Joe Biden is expected to visit the site on Friday to assess the federal response effort. Authorities are working to determine how to rebuild the bridge, which was completed in 1977 and was a symbol of the city's maritime culture. Congress is expected to consider aid packages to assist those impacted by the prolonged closure of the Port of Baltimore.