Privatization Makes a 'Big Dig' into Taxpayers' Pocketbooks

If you think that the Bush Administration's drive to privatize almost everything will lead to greater efficiencies and a better use of taxpayers' dollars, then take another look at Boston's "Big Dig."

1 minute read

December 5, 2004, 9:00 AM PST

By Michael Dudley


"Consider the Big Dig as a poster child for what happens when "big government" steps aside. Years ago, when it was reported that Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff both executed and monitored the preliminary design of the Big Dig, my alarm bells rang. With little interest in reining in costs, the price of the Big Dig escalated by billions, creating the greatest overruns in the history of US public works. Now we hear that the project itself may be seriously flawed...In short, the Big Dig is a classic example of private corporations abusing public funds for private profit. This occurs all the time with military procurement. Yet now, when politicians choose to vote against overpriced military equipment or the faulty missile defense program, they are branded as antidefense or even unpatriotic."

Thanks to Michael Dudley

Friday, December 3, 2004 in The Boston Globe

courses user

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges. Corey D, Transportation Planner

As someone new to the planning field, Planetizen has been the perfect host guiding me into planning and our complex modern challenges.

Corey D, Transportation Planner

Ready to give your planning career a boost?

View of dense apartment buildings on Seattle waterfront with high-rise buildings in background.

Seattle Legalizes Co-Living

A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.

December 1, 2024 - Smart Cities Dive

SunRail passenger train at platform in Poinciana, Florida.

Central Florida’s SunRail Plans Major Expansion

The expanded train line will connect more destinations to the international airport and other important destinations.

November 24, 2024 - Hoodline

Rendering of proposed housing development on former Desert Pines golf course in East Las Vegas, Nevada.

Las Vegas Golf Course to Become Over 1,000 Units of Affordable Housing

The project is part of an initiative to build affordable housing on shuttered golf courses.

November 20, 2024 - KTNV

CLeveland, Ohio downtown skyline seen from grassy field.

Ohio Invests $58 Million to Revitalize Brownfields and Boost Local Economies

This investment in brownfield remediation will clean up hazardous sites, foster economic development, and create jobs through 61 new projects across 33 counties.

30 minutes ago - Office of Governor Mike DeWine

Car parked at EV charging station in parking lot in Carlsbad, California.

California Governor Vows to Protect EV Credits

If the federal government eliminates the tax credit for electric vehicles, the governor will need legislative support to restart a state-level incentive program.

December 1 - The Hill

View of dense apartment buildings on Seattle waterfront with high-rise buildings in background.

Seattle Legalizes Co-Living

A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.

December 1 - Smart Cities Dive

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.