Committee forwards SFMTA central‑subway contract amendments to Board without recommendation, citing need for oversight

SFMTA presented two retroactive amendments (items 13 and 14) to extend and increase by $1,000,000 each the contracts for the Central Subway design teams for closeout tasks, safety and security enhancements and water intrusion repairs. Albert Ho (Central Subway project manager) detailed proposed work: additional CCTV coverage and lighting to reduce blind spots, perimeter fencing at the portal beneath the I‑80 overpass, barricades for fall protection, backup power upgrades and restoration of parts of the over‑catenary system — and noted the SFMTA had clawed back funds from the main construction contract to pay for some water intrusion work.

BLA noted SFMTA had not completed contractor performance evaluations for these designers despite project delays and cost overruns and recommended the Board consider a hearing on contractor performance and the timing of the proposed extensions. Supervisors expressed frustration at retroactive approvals but acknowledged the work remains necessary to remedy immediate safety and operability issues. Chair Chan said the amounts are small relative to the nearly $2 billion program but moved to forward both items to the full Board without recommendation to allow additional oversight.

Next steps: SFMTA to proceed with board action and to provide performance documentation and any requested information about contractor evaluations if the Board asks.