KIRO Broadcast House Seismic Upgrade

KIRO Broadcast House Seismic Upgrade

PSM provided a seismic upgrade for this 50 year old, five story concrete building. Seismic challenges included discontinuous shear walls, irregular building masses in the studios and office wings, and inadequate precast concrete diaphragms.

The owner desired to maintain operations after a significant seismic event. We used the provisions of ASCE 41, designing for an Enhanced Safety Objective of Immediate Occupancy.

PSM used ETABS for static and dynamic analysis of the existing and upgraded seismic system. Initial linear analysis of the existing building guided our rehabilitation strategy. Final configuration of the upgraded system included new and enhanced shear walls, new braced frames, new diaphragm chord and shear transfer elements, and upgraded foundations.

This was an operating television broadcast studio. Our design and construction coordination included consideration of these ongoing operations.

We served as Prime Consultant on this project, and led permitting efforts at Seattle SDCI.