Building Code ReviewThe September 11 attacks were among the worst ever in United States history. These attacks generated a widespread sense of insecurity and uncertainty throughout America, forcing the government to review security measures and protocol relating to the well-being of the United States. However, some aspects of safety that are being changed, such as building codes, are being questioned by many. The collapse of the Twin Towers, due to the impact of planes, sparked a movement focused on strengthening the integrity of skyscrapers and other tall buildings across the United States. Although the terrorist attacks proved to be a huge tragedy, the implementation of measures of this magnitude is not considered a proven necessity. The circumstances of the incident turned out to be so extraordinary that such an event should not lead to dramatic changes in the structure of the building. Therefore, building codes for skyscrapers should not be changed due to the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Modifications to existing buildings and construction of new buildings under the most recently proposed building codes would be too costly to implement. Billions of dollars would be needed to complete the proposed renovations. Marolyn Davenport, vice chair of the Real Estate Board of New York and a member of the task force, says "onerous restrictions would make construction too expensive." He goes on to say, “Even if you want to incorporate security features, at the same time we have to compete with the surrounding areas” (Qtd. in Chan 1). Buildings that would be subject to the new building codes would have an unfair advantage in the competition...... middle of paper ...... state and local governments must radically revise skyscraper building codes -sky in the United States. It would cost far too much to implement all the standards requested by state legislatures. Additionally, many methods have proven to be more effective in reducing the terrorist threat surrounding this country. Although some of the suggested codes have been adopted and are now in the code, an instant change in building regulations is unlikely. The necessity of many of these changes is still debated and their fate has not yet been determined. Efforts to change building codes for tall buildings have yielded positive results, but the potentially beneficial aspects are far outweighed by the negative aspects. Skyscrapers stand despite the terrible events of 9/11 and should not be unnecessarily changed because of them..