Multiple design changes, mismanaged contracts and poor budget control all caused cost overruns and construction delays at new VA hospitals in Colorado, Florida and Louisiana, according to an Army Corps of Engineers report. High costs of a fourth facility in Las Vegas were the result of a decision to change the plan from an outpatient clinic to a full hospital.
The Corps said the VA has conflicting lines of authority and priorities, expectations and accountability standards don't mesh. The Corps says the VA needs to make fundamental changes to how it handles construction and needs more disciplined leadership.
(more on the Army Corps of Engineers reports on VA construction practices and projects...)
