City officials in Los Angeles, Calif., are preparing a move to require extensive strengthening of homes, high-rises, and commercial low-rise buildings, according to a recent report in the L.A. Times (November 26, 1995). Officials say the upgrades are needed to prevent severe damage in the next major earthquake (which scientists warn could strike anytime). Studies of the January 17, 1994, Northridge quake showed that California's seismic code had saved lives but allowed major destruction of property. The new program reflects an attempt to limit the cost of rebuilding after the next major quake hits, and it would also save more lives, officials say. Retrofit strategies. The cost and extent of the proposed repairs varies for different building types. Single-family homes similar to those that fell off their foundations in the
