Key Big Dig figures
Mitt Romney
Governor
Has blasted management of the project, especially that of Turnpike Authority chairman Matthew J. Amorello, but faces criticism himself for not asserting more authority over the project or getting tough with contractors.
Thomas F. Reilly
Attorney General
In January 2005, took over effort to gain compensation for the state for poor construction in the project. Announced he would seek $108 million from Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff, the project manager, for problems and delays and was said to be close to a settlement with the firm last month. Has also launched criminal probe for potential negligent homicide charges as a result of Monday's collapse.
Michael J. Sullivan
US Attorney in Boston
Overseeing federal fraud and corruption investigation of the Big Dig, which was mainly funded with federal money. Recently indicted managers from concrete company Aggregate Industries NE Inc. in the alleged shipment of 5,000 truckloads of tainted concrete to the project.
Matthew J. Amorello
Massachusettts Turnpike Authority chairman and chief executive of the agency that oversees the Big Dig
Appointed in 2002 by Acting Governor Jane Swift, with whom he served in the Legislature. Has been accused of mismanaging the project and of running an overly secretive operation. Has also been criticized for extravagance in planning numerous ceremonial tributes to the project. Romney has been calling for his resignation since 2004. Amorello has vowed to stay on.
Bechtel/Parsons Brinckerhoff
Managed the design and construction of the project for 20 years. A joint venture between two big construction-management and consulting companies. Critics of the project say the firms were given too much latitude in running the multibillion -dollar project and wielded too much influence with state officials.
Modern Continental
Company that built the section of the tunnel where the ceiling collapsed Monday night. Also built section of wall that sprang a gushing leak in September 2004.
SOURCE: Globe staff, archives. 