A total of 26 barges broke loose and began drifting uncontrollably down the Ohio River late one Friday night in Pittsburgh. These barges were mainly carrying dry cargo, such as coal, with three of them being empty. Fortunately, there were no reports of any injuries, but Peggy’s Harbor marina on the city’s North Side suffered significant damage. The Branchport Boat Club, located downstream from Peggy’s, lost nearly 90 boat slips due to the wayward barges.
As of the last report, 11 barges were stuck against the river bank near Brunot Island, while 14 continued their journey down the river, with six of them going over the Emsworth Dam. Campbell Transportation, the company that owns the barges, is currently investigating how this incident occurred. High water conditions and strong currents resulting from flooding in the area were cited as potential causes by Gary Statler, the company’s senior vice president for river operations. The company’s immediate focus is on ensuring public safety and minimizing any potential environmental impact.
The damage caused by the loose barges has had a significant impact on local businesses, with Branchport Boat Club manager Tony Ravida likening it to losing a family member. The recent storms in the Pittsburgh region, along with heavy rainfall in previous weeks, have exacerbated the situation, resulting in the wettest start to spring on record. This incident also sheds light on the risks associated with uncontrolled barges in Pittsburgh’s rivers, prompting increased vigilance in ensuring bridge security following the collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge last month.