Los Angeles County is facing scrutiny for withholding a seismic report on the Gas Co. Tower, a downtown skyscraper purchased for $200 million with the intention of using it as the county's new headquarters. The refusal to release the report has sparked concerns about transparency and the building's ability to withstand a major earthquake.
According to the Los Angeles Times, officials initially recommended a $230 million retrofit for the Gas Co. Tower. However, the Board of Supervisors suspended the project, citing financial constraints. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially considering warnings from structural engineers about the potential for severe damage to the steel-frame building in the event of a significant seismic event.
Concerns About Steel-Moment-Frame Structures
The Gas Co. Tower, constructed in 1991, utilizes a steel-moment-frame structure. Experts, including structural engineer David Cocke, a former president of the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute, have pointed out the vulnerabilities of this type of construction, referencing the damage observed during the 1994 Northridge earthquake. The withheld seismic report could provide crucial insights into the specific risks facing the Gas Co. Tower.
County's Stance vs. Expert Opinions
Despite these concerns, County CEO Fesia Davenport has assured the Board of Supervisors that the building meets existing safety standards and that no retrofit project is currently underway. She emphasized that any seismic upgrades would require board approval. Pasadena Now reports that the county has not finalized any plans for seismic work, and Davenport stated that the Gas Co. Tower is cost-neutral due to ongoing rental income. However, Supervisor Janice Hahn has voiced skepticism about the purchase and called for more transparency regarding the costs associated with the building, suggesting that retrofitting the current Hall of Administration might be a more prudent option.
The contract for any potential seismic upgrades is expected to be awarded in October, with the building remaining occupied during construction, according to the Los Angeles Times. The public remains in the dark regarding the specifics of the seismic report and the true extent of the risk.
The Need for Transparency
The county's decision to keep the seismic report under wraps raises questions about its commitment to public safety. Releasing the report would allow for informed discussions and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to mitigate any potential risks associated with the Gas Co. Tower. The lack of transparency fuels speculation and undermines public trust.