Norfolk, Va – The Port of Virginia’s ability to handle additional cargo shipments diverted from Baltimore, Maryland, is attributed to extensive infrastructure investments made over the past several decades. These investments include the construction of underwater tunnels and recent expansions of waterways, which have effectively minimized mishaps with cargo ships.
The crash of the Dali cargo ship into the Key Bridge on March 26 led to significant repercussions, including the suspension of operations at the Port of Baltimore. Consequently, ship operators had to seek alternative ports, leading the Port of Virginia to step in and service ocean carriers affected by the incident.
Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin highlighted efforts to ensure uniform signage along the Chesapeake Bay for ocean carriers and offered support to Maryland’s administration in managing the aftermath of the bridge collapse.
Over the past 70 years, the development of tunnels and bridges has been instrumental in facilitating transportation across the Elizabeth River and the Chesapeake Bay. These infrastructure projects aimed to reduce travel times, stimulate economic commerce, and ensure clearance for large vessels. The construction of tunnels, in particular, provided continuous access to harbors and received support from the United States Navy.
In 1956, the General Assembly authorized the construction of a 17.6-mile fixed crossing in the Chesapeake Bay, which included three low bridges and two tunnels. The project cost approximately $139 million.
Following its opening in 1964, the CBBT was named after Lucius J. Kellam Jr., the Chesapeake Bay Ferry Commission chair who spearheaded the bridge-tunnel project connecting Virginia Beach to Cape Charles in Northampton County on the Eastern Shore.
In recent years, the Port of Virginia has recently undertaken expansions to accommodate larger container vessels. These expansions, which include dredging efforts to deepen channels and harbors, are part of a strategic infrastructure investment package totaling $1.4 billion. Upon completion, the Port of Virginia will have the deepest channels on the East Coast of the United States, further enhancing its capacity to handle significant cargo volumes.
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They didn't slow it down for farm machinery over the last 80 years.
Understood. I concur.
Everyone knows,this is all to accommodate Cape Charles golf carts. The hell with the rest of you! CC comes first,…
Golf carts aren't allowed on highways so there is nothing to worry about.
3 5 m p h .... Golf Carts.... Bicycles..... Hikers..... all S L O W L Y with CARS, TRUCKS,…