Dowd YMCA FRP Strengthening
Targeted FRP shear reinforcement addressed a misplaced core near the end of a double-tee stem at the Dowd YMCA parking deck.
Delta Structural Technology completed strengthening at the Dowd YMCA parking deck in Charlotte. The repair addressed a double-tee stem affected by a misplaced core near the end of the member. Shear was the primary engineering concern. The team worked through the required capacity contribution, composite configuration and finish options while the contractor prepared the deck for turnover.
Project challenge
The core entered the stem from above at a location different from the intended penetration. Its proximity to the end of the double tee made the resulting shear condition central to the repair. The engineer supplied the production ticket, framing location and photographs. The project needed a defined structural remedy while responding to the contractor’s request for a prompt completion path.
Project approach
Simpson Strong-Tie’s engineering team requested the factored shear contribution required from the FRP, then developed a design and takeoff. The correspondence considered equivalent fabric configurations and the material available for installation. Shop drawings and calculations were advanced for approval and sealing. A finish-coating option was also considered because the appearance of the parking deck was important to the project team.
Delivery and coordination
Delta coordinated with the composite supplier and Metromont’s engineer around the existing-member information and the final submittal. The repair could not be defined from the hole alone; its position, member geometry and required shear contribution were all relevant. The project also required care in distributing the correct drawings, as nearby projects were being handled at the same time.
Project significance
The Dowd YMCA case illustrates a localized repair that depended on precise engineering information. A relatively small penetration created a specific member-level demand requiring a targeted reinforcing response. The project demonstrates how an FRP detail can be developed around an existing precast element while also accounting for material availability, finish expectations and turnover coordination.
