A forensic engineering firm hired by the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority after a traffic-snarling Interstate 93 tunnel slurry wall panel leak in mid-September is reviewing project work records to determine other potential problems. The move could presage extensive repairs while another independent review may prompt cost recovery actions against contractors and the project consultant.
Mueser Rutledge Consulting Engineers, New York City, has reviewed installation records for defective panel EO-45 and is now reviewing other potential problem panels that may be cause for concern. While the tunnel box remains structurally sound repairs to EO-45 could cost $250,000 and take months to complete. "This is unacceptable and the taxpayers and tollpayers will not pay for it," says Matthew J. Amorello, MTA chairman, which oversees the $14.6 billion Central Artery/Tunnel project. Another team led by Lemley Associates, Boise, Idaho, is also reviewing records for possible cost recovery efforts. Project consultant Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff has identified at least six to ten other panels as having similar potential problems and another 400 smaller leaks, which contractors had been repairing as part of their punch list work.