The Big Dig Presents: Catching The Codfather The Big Dig | 7. The Turnpike Revolt
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Nov 1, 2023 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.
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Challenging Bechtel
- Levy and Myhouse challenged Bechtel Parsons, demanding accountability for cost overruns.
- They threatened to fire Bechtel, garnering attention and concern from politically connected individuals.
The Accidental Activist
- Doug Barth's car accident at a toll booth sparked his inquiry into the tolls' existence.
- He discovered the tolls were meant to be temporary, leading him to form 'Free the Pike'.
Toll Controversy
- Using Mass Pike tolls to fund the Big Dig was controversial due to its perceived unfairness.
- Toll payers felt burdened with costs while others using toll-free interstates weren't.