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

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Looking for more conversations from Stateside? Right this way.

If you like what you hear on the pod, consider supporting our work.

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? <a href="https://www.michiganradio.org/programs/stateside">Right this way</a>.
If you like what you hear on the pod, consider <a href="michiganradio.org/podfund">supporting our work.</a>

Ever wondered why we call ourselves “Michiganders”? Or why we say “pop” instead of “soda”? Or, seriously, how many people need to be rescued from Sleeping Bear Dunes every year? That’s why we’re bringing you a new podcast - On Hand - to answer all your questions about what makes our state so special.

To share a story or submit your questions, head to michiganpublic.org/onhand

If you like what you hear on the pod, consider supporting our work: michiganpublic.org/podfund

Ever wondered why we call ourselves &ldquo;Michiganders&rdquo;? Or why we say &ldquo;pop&rdquo; instead of &ldquo;soda&rdquo;? Or, seriously, how many people need to be rescued from Sleeping Bear Dunes every year? That&rsquo;s why we&rsquo;re bringing you a new podcast - On Hand - to answer all your questions about what makes our state so special.
To share a story or submit your questions, head to <a href="https://www.michiganpublic.org/podcast/on-hand">michiganpublic.org/onhand</a>
If you like what you hear on the pod, consider <a href="https://michiganpublic.org/podfund">supporting our work</a>: michiganpublic.org/podfund