TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Taipei Structural Engineers Association (台北市結構技師公會) on Friday (Jan. 3) declared that cracks found in the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park (松山菸廠) buildings pose no danger. The announcement came amid residents' concerns about vibrations from concerts at the nearby Taipei Dome (大巨蛋), which they suspect caused the cracks.
Taipei's Department of Cultural Affairs (台北市文化局) had scheduled an inspection to address these concerns. Hsu Mao-ching (徐茂卿), the chairman of the Taipei Structural Engineers Association (台北市結構技師公會), recommended installing monitoring equipment a few days before concerts to determine if vibrations are the cause. He suggested the cracks likely stem from the original brick walls, which are nearly a century old and might bear earthquake marks.
Hsu noted that while concert vibrations could impact the structure, monitoring is essential to establish causality. He advised conducting observations 2 to 3 days before events and implementing remedial measures if necessary or reducing external vibrations. Despite the concerns, Hsu reassured that the Songshan structure remains safe and has undergone reinforcement.
He also emphasized the Taipei Dome's strategic location and the need for foot traffic to revitalize the building.
