A dozen design firms are targeted to recover Big Dig overuns that total up to $102 million.
A Boston Globe analysis and a report by the Federal Highway Commission indicate that state officials are targeting "a dozen design firms in the first phase of an effort to recover as much as $102 million of the Big Dig's massive cost overruns...." The action is part of "the state's most concerted effort so far at recovering the cost of design or management mistakes on the $14.6 billion project." In the report, the cost-recovery team requires "scrutiny of evidence by independent engineers hired by the state and the exchange of detailed information between state officials and design firm representatives." The Federal Highway Administration report also includes "an inventory of 396 project cost increases attributed to possible error or omission in project design or management."
Thanks to Connie Chung
FULL STORY: Designers targeted in Big Dig overruns

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
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Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
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From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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