Damage to the utility lines beneath America’s feet costs the U.S. economy an estimated $83.2 billion every year — more than $227 million every day — according to a landmark report released Aug. 13 by Common Ground Alliance (CGA).
The new estimate is nearly three times the widely cited $30 billion benchmark established in 2019. It reflects the rising number of damage incidents alongside the most comprehensive accounting of what happens after an underground power, gas, oil, communications, water or other critical utility is struck.
The new report’s most striking finding: Repairing damaged utility lines represents just 5.9% of the total economic impact. For every dollar spent on direct repairs, nearly $16 is lost to consequences such as business interruptions, construction delays, emergency response, road closures, injuries, property damage and community disruption.
Water Finance & Management
by WFM Staff
September 3, 2026