Scratch & Win Part 5: Hatchet Man vs. the 800 Pound Gorilla
66 snips
Oct 18, 2023 A new leader takes charge of the Big Dig and clashes with the private company managing the project. The origins of the leader's nickname 'the hatchet man' and his confrontations with DPW leadership are explored. Insights are provided into the early days of the Department of Public Works and the challenges faced. The opening of the Ted Williams Tunnel is celebrated with the involvement of Bill Weld and Ted Williams. The investigation into the project raises concerns among engineers and key individuals. Innovative soil strengthening techniques and tunnel construction processes are discussed.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Kerasiotes and the Hatchet
- Jim Kerasiotes, known as the "hatchet man," took over the Big Dig.
- His aggressive, intimidating leadership style was emphasized by a hatchet displayed on his desk.
Privatization and the Big Dig
- Privatization was popular in the 80s and 90s, leading to private companies managing public projects.
- The Big Dig's management was handed off to Bechtel Parsons Brinkerhoff, highlighting this trend.
Outdated DPW
- The Massachusetts DPW in the 1980s was outdated, lacking modern technology and a young workforce.
- Joe Allegro and Mike Lewis's accounts highlight the department's outdated nature, making it unsuitable for the Big Dig.