Project Location:Tuxtla Gutiérrez, State of Chiapas, México
Client: Compañía de Teléfonos y Bienes Raíces S.A. de C.V.
Teléfonos de México - TELMEX
Dates: 1993

The “Central Tuxtla II” building houses switching equipment and operators in charge of all calls that are made from the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez (capital of the State of Chiapas) to México City and to interior cities of the Republic of México. This two-story reinforced concrete framed building was designed in the late sixties. A 50 meters (160 ft) height metallic telecommunications tower is located on top of the concrete structure. Several cracks were observed on the columns underneath the tower. The observation of these cracks combined with the building location in a severe seismic zone generated a concern to the owners. The structure was studied in its existing condition and in a few possible strengthened configurations. A solution involving the addition of deep foundation members, and concrete jacketed columns and beams was prepared by associates of the LCR&A team. Complete studies of soil-structure interaction were necessary. A set of construction drawings, specifications, and a final report were also provided to the client.