The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) has honored Professor Jose I. Restrepo and his co-investigators with the Charles H. Pankow Award for Innovation. The project team was recognized for their efforts in developing the Seismic Design Methodology for Precast Concrete Diaphragms. 

The challenge was to develop the ability to use precast concrete in seismic regions.  This was not possible after the 1994 Northridge earthquake in California.  The project provided new ways for concrete flooring to withstand seismic forces. This initiative resulted in the adoption of a revised force demand and resistance methodology for precast concrete diaphragms in 2015 NEHRP and ASCE/SEI 7-16. 

This prestigious award was accepted at the ASCE OPAL Gala in Washington, D.C. on March 17, 2016.