What's Happening?
The Port of Baltimore has successfully recovered its container business following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March 2024. The disaster had caused a significant 41 percent drop in container throughput, reducing it to approximately 740,000 TEU. However, in 2025, the port managed to handle 1.1 million TEU, surpassing the 2023 record by over 5,000 TEU. This recovery occurred despite a year marked by economic uncertainty and tariff volatility. The port also recorded 2,223 cargo vessel visits, a 21 percent increase from 2024, and welcomed the second-largest ship ever to call at Baltimore, the 366-meter Ever Model, capable of carrying over 15,000 containers.
Why It's Important?
The recovery of the Port of Baltimore is crucial for Maryland's economy,
as the port is a significant economic driver, generating about 20,300 direct jobs and over 273,000 jobs statewide. The port's annual economic impact exceeds $70 billion. The resurgence in container throughput and vessel visits highlights the port's resilience and strategic importance in the U.S. maritime industry. The port's modernization efforts, including the reopening of a deep channel and the installation of supersized cranes, have been pivotal in this recovery, positioning Baltimore as a key player in the national supply chain.
What's Next?
Looking forward, the Port of Baltimore is optimistic about further growth, driven by the completion of the CSX Howard Street Tunnel project. This $518 million initiative aims to modernize a 130-year-old freight tunnel, enabling the port to handle double-stacked container trains. This upgrade is expected to increase the port's capacity by 160,000 containers annually and create nearly 14,000 jobs. The port's administration is committed to continuing infrastructure improvements to enhance supply chains and economic growth.
