Have you wondred about the fate of stalled projects that dot the Las Vegas Strip like Fontainebleau and Echelon? As you know construction of these multimillion dollar projects was halted before completion due to the economic downturn. They have been left unfinished, unprotected and exposed to decay under the harsh desert climate since 2008-2009. As a structural engineer, I have more specifically wondered about their structural integrity under these conditions and what should owners do to protect them.

Unfinished $4.5 billion echelon sits empty and waiting.

The area's dry weather, rare snowfall and lack of salty moisture, as in coastal areas, are less damaging to these structures. However, the severe day and night temperature variations and exposure to the direct sun pose a significant impact on these mostly concrete and steel structures. Although regular inspection serve as a minimum preventive measure, owners are well advised to implement additional protections to retain the integrity of the structural system.

While these buildings sit dormant and before construction starts again to complete the project, building codes change as they always do every few years. The need to investigate and update the design to meet new codes may become necessary which in turn may require costly retrofits. Owners should start that process now to know what to expect before resuming construction and protect their investment.

Have you been involved in any of these or similar projects? If yes, what was your experience? Please share your thoughts and let me know if you would like to discuss further.

Sincerely,

Mohammed Thomad, PE, SE

Principal