Doing 'Real' Engineering Often Means No Easy Stamp of Approval
"Given the serious concerns we have regarding a structure of this height not having a dual lateral force-resisting system, we recommend against the designers proceeding with their proposed [performance-based] design. Instead, we suggest the designers follow code-prescribed methods."
That warning message in a May 5, 2004, letter from a San Diego building official to structural engineer Magnusson Klemencic Associates (MKA) was clear but all too familiar: Stop, turn around and follow the beaten path.