For Immediate Release: Tuesday, March 26, 2024
Contact: Madison Goldbeck, [email protected], (414) 708-3820
March 26, 2024 – Port Milwaukee is sending our sympathy to the Port of Baltimore community following Tuesday’s tragic bridge collapse. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of those affected.
Following this unfortunate event, Port Milwaukee has received several media requests regarding our safety measures and infrastructure integrity.
Large oceanic container ships, such as the vessel involved in the Baltimore incident, do not call on Milwaukee. Port Milwaukee receives vessels similar in length, but roughly half in width, to the involved vessel.
All foreign vessels are required to engage a United States or Canadian registered pilot to direct vessel navigation through critical areas of the Great Lakes. Tug assistance for vessels provides an additional level of safety for the captain, pilot, and owner of any vessel transiting the Port. Tug assistance coupled with a vessel's bow and stern thrusters and a skilled pilot significantly mitigates any risk to critical structures within the harbor.
Port Milwaukee is continually partnering with multi-agency first responders to enhance current response plans and develop new joint operations plans whenever gaps are identified.
“Port Milwaukee is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its facilities, employees, and the community,” said Jackie Q. Carter, Director of Port Milwaukee. “The port community is resilient and has strong connections with our maritime partners and local first responders.”
The Hoan Bridge is owned and operated by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and is not a Port Milwaukee asset. For inquiries on the Hoan Bridge, we ask you to contact WisDOT.
Port Milwaukee does not expect to be directly impacted by this tragedy.
About Port Milwaukee
Port Milwaukee is an economic entity of City government governed by the seven-member Board of Harbor Commissioners, a panel appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Common Council. It administers operations on the 467 acres that make up the Port. It promotes shipping and commerce throughout the region by providing access to domestic and international ships, rail, and over-the-road transportation.