L'Ambiance Plaza collapse facts for kids
Date | April 23, 1987 |
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Location | Bridgeport, Connecticut |
Coordinates | 41°10′42″N 73°11′47″W / 41.1782°N 73.1964°W |
Cause | Building collapse |
Outcome | 28 construction workers killed |
The L'Ambiance Plaza collapse was a very serious building accident in Connecticut. It happened on April 23, 1987, in Bridgeport, Connecticut. L'Ambiance Plaza was a 16-story apartment building being built. During its construction, the building suddenly fell down. This terrible event killed 28 construction workers.
Experts believe the collapse happened because of too much pressure on the concrete floors. This pressure caused the floors to crack and break through. Many people thought this accident could have been stopped. They also pointed out problems with the lift slab construction method. This method involves building floors on the ground and then lifting them into place. The collapse led to a big investigation across the United States. It also caused a temporary stop to using the lift slab method in Connecticut.
After the Collapse
Less than two years after the disaster, in November 1988, an agreement was reached. This agreement settled all legal claims from the accident. A total of $41 million was paid to the families affected. This agreement was reached through mediation, which is when a neutral person helps groups find a solution. Two judges, Robert C. Zampano and Frank S. Meadow, helped everyone agree. They held informal meetings with many lawyers. These lawyers represented the families of the victims and the construction companies involved.
See also
In Spanish: Colapso de L'Ambiance Plaza para niños