Denver International Airport’s $2 billion Great Hall renovation remains marred by mismanagement, a new report from the Denver Auditor’s Office revealed.
Why it matters: The massive project, now expected to wrap in 2028, risks cost overruns and shoddy construction due to lax oversight — jeopardizing public trust, traveler safety and the overall experience of Colorado’s largest economic engine .
- The future of the project is also likely to shape the legacy of DIA CEO Phil Washington, who took over the problem-ridden project in 2021 and pushed through plans to complete its final phase, doubling the cost.
Driving the news: A follow-up report from Denver Auditor Timothy O’Brien’s office flagged ongoing issues despite a scathing 2023 audit that called for significant changes.
- The airport’s Special Projects Division ignored seven of the 10 original recommendations, fully implementing just two.
- Key failures include weak subcontractor oversight, misuse of project allowances and unverified billing rates, according to the latest report.