Case Study: Boston Big Dig – Delivery Method Complexities and Coordination Failures (2003)

Project Overview
• Name: Central Artery/Tunnel Project (“Big Dig”)
• Location: Boston, Massachusetts
• Year: 2003 (during peak construction phase)
• Project Size: Over $14 billion total
• Scope: Construction of underground highway tunnels and highways through downtown Boston
• Lead Agencies/Contractors: Massachusetts Turnpike Authority, Multiple contractors with various delivery methods (Design-Bid-Build, Design-Build elements)

Category of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
• Project Delivery Method
• Multi-Contractor Coordination

Summary of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
The Big Dig’s complex mixture of multiple contracts, overlapping delivery methods, and poorly coordinated interfaces between contractors led to significant schedule delays, cost overruns, and quality issues during construction.

Root Cause Analysis

• Fragmented delivery approach caused misalignment of schedules and work scopes.
• Overlapping contract boundaries created conflicts in responsibility.
• Lack of integrated project management and coordination systems.
• Insufficient clarity on interface management and risk allocation.

Impacts Due to the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
• Multi-year delays beyond original schedule.
• Cost overruns of billions of dollars.
• Significant quality control failures requiring costly repairs.
• Public dissatisfaction and regulatory investigations.

Corrective Actions Taken

1. Established a centralized project management office with authority over coordination.
2. Implemented integrated scheduling and reporting tools across contractors.
3. Clarified scope and interface responsibilities through contractual amendments.
4. Increased owner oversight and conflict resolution mechanisms.

Lessons Learned

• Complex projects require integrated delivery and clear coordination protocols.
• Mixed delivery methods can increase interface risks if not carefully managed.
• Centralized project controls and communication platforms are essential.
• Clear risk and responsibility allocation prevents disputes and delays.

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

• Is project management centralized with clear authority?
• Are delivery methods aligned and coordinated among contractors?
• Are contract interfaces clearly defined and managed?
• Are communication and coordination tools effectively implemented?