Case Study: Subcontractor Schedule Mismanagement Causes Utility Relocation Delay in California (2019)

Project Overview
• Name: I-405 Improvement Project
• Location: Los Angeles, California
• Year: 2019
• Project Size: $450 million
• Scope: Freeway widening, including complex utility relocations
• Lead Agencies/Contractors: California DOT /

Category of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
• Subcontractor Management
• Schedule & Coordination

Summary of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
Utility subcontractors fell behind schedule due to poor planning and resource allocation, delaying subsequent roadway paving and widening activities.

Root Cause Analysis

• Subcontractors underestimated scope and complexity of utility work.
• Inadequate coordination meetings and communication between prime and subs.
• Lack of contingency plans for unforeseen utility conflicts.
• Poor subcontractor resource management and schedule adherence.

Impacts Due to the Issue, Problem, or Challenge

• Overall project delay of 3 months, with cascading impacts on critical path.
• Increased project costs from extended overhead and re-mobilization.
• Stakeholder dissatisfaction and negative public perception.

Corrective Actions Taken

1. Prime contractor improved subcontractor coordination through weekly progress meetings.
2. Developed detailed work sequencing and contingency plans for utilities.
3. Instituted stricter progress reporting and performance reviews for subs.
4. Allocated additional resources and support to subcontractors facing delays.

Lessons Learned

• Utility work requires thorough upfront planning and flexible scheduling.
• Continuous communication between prime and subs prevents misunderstandings.
• Subcontractor performance must be closely monitored against critical path.

Audit & Prevention: Project Control Questions to Ask on Future Projects to Help Control the Situation

• Are subcontractor schedules integrated into overall project plan?
• How often are coordination and progress meetings held?
• Are contingency plans established for utility conflicts?