NCDOT and Skanska still battling over I-485

Remember all the drama between NCDOT and Skanska USA on various issues and delays over the last stretch of Interstate 485 to open I enjoyed blogging about over the years? Well, that chapter in the I-485 story isn't finished yet.

This time the issue is over installing the Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) over the new five miles of highway. ITS syncs traffic cameras, electronic message boards, and other sensors together to report live traffic information to motorists.

But wait! There's more...since the project isn't officially completed in NCDOT's view. The highway was to be completed on March 15, 2007. Now it's over 980 days later...and with an agreed upon $10,000 per day late fee. That's just under $10 million owed!!!! Hey who needs to rename a bridge to get highway money - just collect on late fees!

So far it appears that the state has collected on $1.8 million of the fees.

Skanska is fighting back saying NCDOT added additional responsibilities and there were weather delays. Skanska in fact wants NCDOT to pay them money for some of the delays.

NCDOT does admit the weather and some changes did add to the delays...but not all of them.

It sure seems like this saga has a lot more left in it.

Story:
Contractor, NCDOT Battle Over I-485 Delay Fines ---WSOC w/video

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