Bridge Rebuild: Maryland's Plan to Cover Costs

The Francis Scott Key Bridge, which collapsed in 2024, was a critical route for trade and travel. Now, Maryland is grappling with how to fund its repair.

Borrowing to Build

Maryland plans to borrow money first and pay it back later by issuing bonds. Bruce Gartner, head of the Maryland Transportation Authority, expects the federal government to reimburse the state. However, they can't wait for that funding.

Risks and Rewards

While bond issuance is a common way to fund large projects, it's not risk-free. If the federal government doesn't reimburse Maryland, the state could be left with a massive bill. Additionally, interest on the borrowed money could increase the final cost.

The Collapse's Impact

The bridge's collapse caused significant disruptions to trade and travel. Fixing it is a priority, but the process is complex. Maryland must balance the need for quick action with the reality of limited funds.