I am sure someone influential is got a contract for some of the services.
I think you nailed it.
Many - probably most - government projects
AREN'T about providing a necessary service, but about converting public (taxpayer) funds into private profits. It's been this way for generations. I remember back when I was in high school a project was proposed by the graduating senior class and bid out (using licensed and bonded contractors) at under $2k. The school board came up with a price tag of $43,750 and told the seniors NOT to dispute or discuss it with anyone.
Much hilarity ensued when the students went directly to the press, which still was doing
some honest reporting back then.