Case Study: Subcontractor Poor Scheduling Coordination Causes Concrete Pour Delays in Pennsylvania (2017)

Project Overview
• Name: I-95 Reconstruction
• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Year: 2017
• Project Size: $1 billion
• Scope: Interstate reconstruction including major concrete work
• Lead Agencies/Contractors: Pennsylvania DOT /

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

Summary of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
Concrete subcontractor’s failure to coordinate delivery schedules with prime contractor and suppliers caused multiple delays and inefficient pour sequencing.

Root Cause Analysis

• Subcontractor’s internal scheduling processes were inadequate and reactive.
• Lack of integrated project scheduling tools shared with prime contractor.
• Poor communication between subcontractor, concrete suppliers, and site teams.
• No penalties or incentives tied to schedule adherence.

Impacts Due to the Issue, Problem, or Challenge

• Multiple days of lost work due to delayed material arrival.
• Increased costs from labor inefficiencies and extended site overhead.
• Negative impact on overall project critical path and stakeholder confidence.

Corrective Actions Taken

1. Implemented shared digital scheduling tools for all parties.
2. Established weekly coordination meetings between subcontractor, prime, and suppliers.
3. Added schedule adherence clauses with financial incentives and penalties.
4. Trained subcontractor staff on proactive scheduling and communication.

Lessons Learned

• Scheduling coordination is critical for heavy civil concrete operations.
• Digital tools and frequent communication reduce risks of delays.
• Contractual provisions improve accountability for schedule adherence.

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

• Are subcontractor schedules integrated with overall project plans?
• Are communication protocols and coordination meetings regular and documented?
• Are schedule-related contractual incentives and penalties clearly defined?