Cost analysis of a new bicycle path
We checked the construction estimate for a 2 km path. We showed that the valuation was 1.2 million PLN higher than in a neighboring city. The office had to explain the difference in the media.
It started with a simple post on a neighborhood forum. Residents wondered why a short stretch of asphalt should cost as much as building several single-family homes. We decided to check it out because the numbers didn't add up from the start.
The challenge
The City Office planned to build a 2 km long bicycle path for a total of 4.7 million PLN. We compared it with a similar investment in a municipality 30 km away, where the identical surface was laid in July 2024 for significantly less money. The difference was exactly 1.2 million PLN in favor of the neighbors. Officials claimed in formal letters that the terrain is difficult and material prices went up by 40%. However, hard evidence for these claims was lacking, and residents felt their money was being wasted. (By the way, officials rarely expect anyone to actually bother reading all those boring tender attachments).
Our approach
Our team, consisting of 3 people, downloaded the full documentation from the Public Information Bulletin. For 9 business days, we analyzed every point of the offer estimate. Marek checked the market prices of aggregate and asphalt at 4 different suppliers in the region. Ania verified man-hour rates and heavy equipment rental costs. We focused only on facts and specific price lists from September 2024, discarding all political emotions. No fluff, just math.
The solution
We prepared a 14-page report that showed in black and white where overpayments were made. Instead of using difficult language, we used simple tables and charts. We pointed out that the price per ton of bituminous mass in this specific contract was 31% higher than the market average. The report was sent to 2 local editorial offices and to councilors from the audit committee. We also created a Facebook graphic that gathered 156 shares from impatient residents in one evening.
Results
After the publication of the report and a wave of media criticism, the city mayor halted the signing of the contract for 3 weeks. The office conducted a re-verification of costs with the contractor. After negotiations, the final price dropped by 840,000 PLN, saving real money in the city budget. That's it.
Timeline
-
October 2024Downloading and initial selection of data from 124 pages of BIP documents.
-
October 2024Verification of market prices at 4 independent aggregate suppliers.
-
November 2024Report publication and publicizing the matter in local media.
"To be honest, we thought nothing could be gained with the office. Info Fraction showed us where our taxes are leaking without unnecessary chatter. Their report simply shut the officials' mouths."