5 Things to Know Today, Thursday, July 12

Good morning, here are five things to know today:

The Big Dig Cost $24 Billion -- Worth It?: Boston's "Big Dig" project took decades to complete, and now estimates peg its cost at $24 billion, according to the Boston Globe. Worth it? Weigh in on this poll.

Weather: Sunny skies with highs in the upper 80s are expected today, according to the National Weather Service. Temperatures could soar to the mid-90s tomorrow.

Those craving a roast beef sandwich really early in the morning now have their fix. The Medford City Council on Tuesday approved a request from Kelly's Roast Beef in Station Landing to keep its drive-through open until 3 a.m. The approval includes a review of the change in hours of operation in six months. The restaurant is currently open until 1 a.m.

In Wake of Scandals, More Scrutiny for Medford Housing Authority Board Appointment: As the Medford Housing Authority recovers from recent scandals, city councilors took more caution in approving a new member for the authority's board Tuesday. Heather Merchant, of 15 Light Guard Drive was approved as the newest appointee to the Medford Housing Authority's Board of Commissioners by a 5-2 vote by the council Tuesday night. Merchant, a resident of federal housing development LaPrise Village, will be one of the board's resident representatives. Merchant is a paraprofessional in Medford Public Schools and was selected by Mayor Michael McGlynn out of four applicants for the spot on the board. The approval is contingent on clearance by the State's Ethics Commission, since Merchant was appointed by McGlynn, who serves at the School Committee's chairman.

Brooks Estate's Annual Free Picnic Set for Saturday: The Brooks Estate Land Trust is holding its annual community picnic from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Stop by to enjoy food, refreshments and fun.