Case Study: Miami Port Tunnel Design Coordination Failure Causes Structural Conflicts (2017)

Project Overview
• Name: Miami Port Tunnel
• Location: Miami, Florida
• Year: 2017
• Project Size: $1 billion
• Scope: Construction of a highway tunnel beneath port facilities
• Lead Agencies/Contractors: Florida DOT /

Category of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
• Design
• Coordination & Structural Engineering

Summary of the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
During tunnel excavation and liner installation, design coordination failures between structural and utility design teams led to conflicting underground alignments. This caused rework of utility relocations and liner adjustments, resulting in significant project delays and cost increases.

Root Cause Analysis

• Fragmented design responsibilities for structural and utility systems.
• Lack of integrated 3D modeling or BIM for underground utilities.
• Inadequate interdisciplinary coordination during design development.
• Poor communication protocols among design consultants and contractors.

Impacts Due to the Issue, Problem, or Challenge
• 5-month delay due to utility relocations and structural redesign.
• Cost increases of roughly $7 million for mitigation and redesign.
• Increased risk exposure for project safety and schedule.

Corrective Actions Taken

1. Implemented integrated 3D BIM models for all underground design elements.
2. Established formal coordination meetings involving all design disciplines.
3. Enhanced communication protocols and conflict resolution procedures.
4. Assigned a design coordinator to oversee interdisciplinary integration.

Lessons Learned

• Complex underground projects require integrated design platforms.
• Early and ongoing coordination prevents costly conflicts during construction.
• Clear communication and designated coordination roles are essential.
• Advanced technologies like BIM improve clash detection and project outcomes.

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

• Are integrated 3D models used for all underground design elements?
• Is there a dedicated design coordinator to manage interdisciplinary interfaces?
• Are regular coordination meetings held with all design and construction teams?
• Are communication and conflict resolution protocols established and enforced?