The Mackinac Bridge lacks modern protections around its piers in the Straits of Mackinac, making it vulnerable if a freighter veered off course as happened recently in Baltimore.
In response to this question, a representative from the Michigan Department of Transportation sent this statement: "The investigation into the tragedy in Baltimore continues, and appears to be focused on what caused the ship to lose power and veer so far off course. For now, our interest is concentrated on the findings of that investigation, what steps are being taken by the maritime shipping industry and safety agencies to reduce shipping hazards to bridges, including the Mackinac, and guidance for what mitigations are possible."
GUESTS:
Louis Mleczko, former Detroit News reporter
Venkatesh Kodur, professor of civil and environmental engineering, Michigan State University
___
Looking for more conversations from Stateside? Right this way.
If you like what you hear on the pod, consider supporting our work.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations.
Death, Sex & Money
Anna Sale explores the big questions and hard choices that are often left out of polite conversation.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.