Was the Boston "Dig" fiasco designed to be a project to enrich Politicians & Contractors?

Question

The purpose of this knockout blow to the taxpayers was unclear.

Who will end up paying for the massive overruns, who will be accountable, and what will happen to the culprits?

Is the same thing about to happen in Seattle Washington?

Answer 1

One could draw that conclusion it was a wealth-transfer project. But I don't think all the facts are known. Stories that a subcontractor used inferior and low-cost bolts to attach ceiling panels. And cheaper ceiling panels that weighed more than the originals which were specified.

Were these changes reviewed by the designers at Bechtel? Or were they made without engineering consultation? If the changes were made independent of the engineers, then the contractor is liable. Otherwise, you could say Bechtel is responsible.

All I can tell is that the legal expenses will be very, very large when it's all done.

I don't think you can apply the situation in Boston and transfer it to Seattle. Not unless all the engineers and contractors and politicians are the same people in both projects.

Answer 2

One would've hoped the Big Dig wouldn't devolve into this pointing match or massive money grab.

On the bright side (if there is one), the Big Dig did manage to bury the Central Artery, which was a blight it of itself, with its road decks destroying thriving neighborhoods and shadowing others. In its place, the Rose Kennedy Parkway should brighten up the area, if the principals involved can agree on stuff.

Seattle's officials and taxpayers need to ensure that the abuses, overruns, and inferior workmanship rampant in the Big Dig are either minimized or eliminated. And those who willfully put the public at risk be punished severely.

"Fool me one, shame on you. Fool me twice... Won't get fooled again."