Introduction

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Dig Project was a significant transportation infrastructure initiative in Boston, Massachusetts, designed to replace an outdated elevated highway with a modern tunnel system.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 stands as 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 the largest and most challenging highway project in US history. 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 $1$A$,$ 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 $2003.($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?