The ATC-58 Project: Development of Next-Generation Performance-Based Earthquake Engineering Design Criteria for Buildings

Abstract

The purpose of the ATC-58 project is to develop next-generation seismic design procedures that will address these issues and also provide a more reliable means of predicting and designing desired for performance. Initial planning for the project was outlined in an action plan, FEMA-349, developed by the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute. The project is being executed in two phases, each with an anticipated duration of 5 years. The first phase is currently underway and includes development of a comprehensive building seismic performance assessment methodology. This methodology will be suitable for direct application to performance-based design of new buildings or performance-based retrofit design for existing buildings. The second phase of the project, which will be conducted upon conclusion of the first phase will focus on the development of design guidance to assist the engineer in efficiently identifying designs likely to be capable of providing the desired performance.