A single bridge collapse can affect the entire economy.
In a statement released after the bridge collapsed early Tuesday, the American Trucking Association estimated that 4,900 trucks per day carrying an annual average of $28 billion worth of goods would have to be rerouted — at a cost to shippers and ultimately consumers.
"The Key Bridge and Port of Baltimore are critical components of our nation's infrastructure and supply chain," the association said. "Aside from the obvious tragedy, this incident will have significant and long-lasting impacts on the region."
It said the greatest impact is likely to be on shipments of hazardous materials, like diesel fuel, which are not allowed to be taken through tunnels.
This is in addition to the loss in revenue from the port, which brings in $400 million taxes for Maryland annually.
Maryland is currently facing a budget crisis, not to mention, well, everyone else.
Global supply chains are already in brittle shape from pandemic-related stresses and geopolitical changes.
Another data point in Build Back Better™!
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