Watch CBS News

Report Shows Bay Bridge Review Panelists Have Conflicts Of Interest

SAN FRANCISCO (CBS/AP) -- An investigation has found apparent conflicts of interest involving some of the experts asked to conduct a technical review of the tower foundation for the new San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge.

The Sacramento Bee reported members of the new panel created by the Legislative Analyst's Office have current or recent financial and professional ties to the California Department of Transportation and Bay Bridge contractors.

The new panel was formed after a Bee investigation showed conflicts of interest involving members of a Caltrans review panel that judged the foundation sound last year.

Democratic State Sen. Mark DeSaulnier, chairman of the Transportation and Housing Committee, says he is "distressed" to learn about the ties between the new panelists, the agency and Bay Bridge contractors.

The experts are to assess whether Caltrans followed proper procedures.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.