Eurovia Atlantic Coast, LLC, also known as Northeast Paving, the Lane Construction Corporation, and Stantec Consulting Services, Inc. have agreed to pay a total of $1.37 million to settle allegations related to false claims concerning runway rehabilitation at Westfield-Barnes Regional Airport in Massachusetts. The companies admitted responsibility for the issues underlying the settlement.
The airport serves as the operational center for the Massachusetts Air National Guard’s 104th Fighter Wing, which includes combat-ready fighter pilots performing alert missions over the northeastern United States.
In 2012, Westfield initiated rehabilitation of Runway 2-20 with federal, state, and local funds from agencies including the Department of Transportation and Department of Defense. To secure federal funding, claims were submitted to these departments during and after construction.
Stantec was contracted in 2013 by Westfield for design services and project management. Lane Construction was later selected for rehabilitation work. After completion, Northeast Paving acquired some assets from Lane Construction.
By 2019, cracks appeared where concrete met asphalt on the runway. Although certified by Lane and Stantec as meeting specifications, a required track at this interface was not constructed. Consequently, repairs were needed by Westfield and Massachusetts Department of Transportation; during which time the 104th Fighter Wing had to relocate.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley emphasized contractor obligations: “Federal contractors must fulfill their obligations… especially where their work impacts the safety of our military.” Brian C. Gallagher from DOT’s Office of Inspector General stated that defendants misrepresented their work: “This settlement reflects our commitment… to hold contractors accountable.” Christopher M. Silvestro from DCIS highlighted collaboration efforts: “This settlement demonstrates our collaboration… to ensure DoD contractors adhere to contract requirements.”
The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Foley along with DOT-OIG SAC Gallagher and DCIS Acting SAC Silvestro. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Morgan managed this case.
