The Big Dig Project was a significant transportation infrastructure initiative in Boston, Massachusetts, designed to replace an outdated elevated highway with a modern tunnel system. Completed in 2007, it is one of the most complex and costly construction endeavors in US history. Despite numerous delays, cost overruns, and engineering challenges, the project ultimately improved traffic flow and urban aesthetics, although it also led to accidents, lawsuits, and financial burdens.

Project Overview

The Central Artery/Tunnel Project (CA/T) was US history's largest and most challenging highway project. It successfully reduced traffic congestion and enhanced mobility in one of America's oldest and most congested cities. The project laid the groundwork for continued growth in Massachusetts and New England and contributed to local environmental improvements.

The project replaced Boston's deteriorating six-lane elevated Central Artery (I-93) with a state-of-the-art underground highway and constructed two new bridges over the Charles River. It also extended I-90 to Boston's Logan International Airport and Route 1A, creating over 300 acres of open land and reconnecting downtown Boston with the waterfront.

Planning and Construction

When planning for the CA/T Project began in 1982, the challenges from design to construction were unforeseen. Federal funding and the project's basic scope were approved by Congress in April 1987. Construction started in September 1991 with a bypass road through South Boston, diverting truck traffic from neighborhood streets. A third tunnel crossing Boston Harbor was also initiated. The first major milestone, the opening of the Ted Williams Tunnel, was largely completed by January 13, 2006. Three major milestone openings occurred in 2003.

For more detailed background information, please visit the link at: Massachusetts Government - The Big Dig Project Background.

Discussion 1 (CLO 1) 5 Marks

(a) Who were the principal stakeholders in the project?

(b) If you were the project manager in the Initiation stage of this project, what steps would you take to create the Project Charter?

(c) Do you think Project Management is essential in today's society? Why?