Seattle’s unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings are an essential part of the city’s architectural heritage, and they are also among the most vulnerable structures during an earthquake. Over the last several years, we’ve been working to make seismic retrofits more affordable, and easier to complete. URM owners have more support than… [ Keep reading ]
On July 20, we joined local leaders and community partners for a powerful walking tour of Unreinforced Masonry (URM) buildings in Pioneer Square and the Chinatown International District — 2 of Seattle’s most historic and seismically vulnerable neighborhoods. The tour, followed by a lunch-and-learn session, was more than just a… [ Keep reading ]
The City’s team of building inspectors learning about URM vulnerability and the scope of work associated with their retrofits May marks Building Safety Month, a time to recognize the importance of resilient infrastructure, proactive planning, and the professionals who keep our buildings — and our communities — safe. In Seattle,… [ Keep reading ]
Seattle marks 60th anniversary of 1965 earthquake with renewed call for unreinforced masonry retrofits amid federal and state setbacks On the 60th anniversary of the devasting 1965 Seattle earthquake, the City is reaffirming its commitment to seismic safety and resilience through the retrofitting of unreinforced masonry (URM) buildings, which are… [ Keep reading ]
