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Experts Critique the Olympic Structures of Montreal

Serial Information: Civil Engineering—ASCE, 1976, Vol. 46, Issue 12, Pg. 50-54


Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

At a panel discussion held recently in Montreal, a number of prominent architects and engineers critiqued the Montreal Olympic structures. Unlike some previous press reports, the blame for the fantastic cost overruns was placed not mainly on labor problems or inflation, but on cumbersome design and construction procedures. There was little team work between architect and structural engineer, a failure that dramatically increased the cost of the structures. Engineering critics found both the Velodrome and the Olympic Stadium: too heavy; lacking in simplicity, grace, and finesse. Because architect Roger Taillibert, with the unwavering backing of Montreal Mayor Drapeau, wanted to preserve the esthetic integrity of the structures, he closed his ears to many thoughful, cost-saving ideas. Canadian taxpayers are now paying the price for retaining an architectural prima donna who thinks that being concerned about costs is undignified and ignoble.

Subject Headings: Benefit cost ratios | Architects | Team building | Structural failures | Stadiums and sport facilities | Pricing | Panels (structural) | Montreal | Quebec | Canada

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