Where's the media?

Is concrete being poured at the SSTC? Who knows? It’s been over a month since the media reported what’s going on at the SSTC.

It’s cold; temperatures are in the 30s. We know from the KCE and WDP reports that the SSTC’s concrete strength and cracking problems are due in part to improper handling (adding water) and curing (lack of heat) in cold temperatures. We also know that concrete inspection and testing were not performed in accordance with the SSTC's construction documents and standard industry practice. (KCE’s report “Silver Spring Transit Center Structural Evaluation of Superstructure with Exhibits” and WDP’s report “WMATA Report - EVALUATION OF SILVER SPRING TRANSIT CENTER” can be viewed and downloaded at http://www6.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/content/DGS/DBDC/RegionalProjectPages/SilverSpringProjects/sstc.asp  )

The media are our eyes and ears. We won’t know if they’re pouring concrete at the SSTC if the media doesn’t report it. We won’t know if it’s the same concrete subcontractor(s), general contractor (Foulger-Pratt) and concrete inspection and testing firm (Balter) that did the job before. We won’t know what measures have been taken this time to assure that the concrete is mixed, transported, handled, placed and cured correctly. We won’t know if it’s being done right this time.

C’mon, media, report this story!