In this podcast, the downfall of Jim Carasciotis and the impact on the other board members are explored. The fight against tolls on the Mass Turnpike and the formation of the organization Free the Pike are discussed. Controversies surrounding Lieutenant Governor Jane Swift's public image and challenges she faced as a working mother are highlighted. The political leadership and funding challenges for the Big Dig are compared. A turning point in toll hike negotiations and power struggles within the project are analyzed. The toll issue and the final ruling by the Supreme Judicial Court are also explored.
The podcast episode highlights the power struggle between the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority and Governor Jane Swift, revealing the delicate balance of power in infrastructure projects.
The controversy surrounding tolls and their role in funding the Big Dig exemplifies the complex dynamics of public authorities and the challenges they face.
Deep dives
The Power Struggle at the Big Dig
The podcast episode explores a power struggle at the Big Dig, focusing on the role and control of the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority. Jim Carasciotis ruled the Big Dig through his control of the powerful board of the Turnpike Authority. After his departure, attention shifted to the other two members of the board, Jordan Levy and Kristi Myhouse, who formed an unlikely partnership. The two members, lacking backgrounds in construction or transportation, were seen as easily controllable by Carasciotis. However, they surprised many by using their positions to challenge Bechtel Parsons, the company managing the Big Dig, demanding financial accountability and threatening to fire them from the project. This led to a power struggle with Governor Jane Swift, who attempted to dismiss Myhouse and Levy. A legal battle ensued, with the Supreme Judicial Court ultimately ruling that the governor had overstepped her powers. Despite the drama, the toll increase went into effect and the Big Dig was completed.
The Rise of Public Authorities
The podcast episode highlights the rise and influence of public authorities, using the Massachusetts Turnpike Authority as an example. Public authorities, quasi-governmental bodies independent from politicians, were created to fund infrastructure projects through bond sales and toll collection. The Turnpike Authority was formed in 1952 to build and manage the Massachusetts Turnpike. The authority's independence was meant to protect bondholders and shield politicians from the controversies and financial risks associated with major infrastructure projects. However, the episode explores how the authority's power and mission expanded over time, leading to conflicts and questions about accountability.
The Toll Controversy
The podcast episode delves into the controversy surrounding tolls and their role in funding the Big Dig. While tolls were originally intended to be temporary, they remained in place for years, becoming an issue of resentment for many. Toll increases became a politically charged topic, particularly because not all highways in Massachusetts had tolls. The episode focuses on the pushback against toll increases from both citizens and board members Jordan Levy and Kristi Myhouse. Their opposition to a toll increase, coupled with their efforts to hold Bechtel Parsons accountable, led to a heated confrontation with Governor Jane Swift.
The Fallout and Resolution
The podcast episode discusses the aftermath of the Turnpike revolt and its impact on the Big Dig. Governor Jane Swift's attempt to dismiss Jordan Levy and Kristi Myhouse triggered a legal battle over the powers of public authorities. The Supreme Judicial Court ultimately ruled in favor of Myhouse and Levy, affirming the independence and decision-making authority of the Turnpike Board. However, the toll increase went into effect and Bechtel Parsons remained involved in the project. The episode highlights the complex dynamics of public authorities, the challenges of infrastructure projects, and the controversies that can arise when power struggles unfold.
By the year 2000, the Big Dig has passed through many hands, but in its final years a power struggle spills into public view – over who will determine the project’s fate, and who will take responsibility for its mistakes.
Credits:
Host and scriptwriter: Ian Coss
Executive Producer: Devin Maverick Robins
Producers: Isabel Hibbard and Ian Coss
Editor: Lacy Roberts
Editorial Advisor: Stephanie Leydon
Fact Checker: Lisa Wardle
Scoring and Music Supervision: Ian Coss
Project Manager: Meiqian He
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