JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — First Coast News is on your side answering a question many of you are asking about the materials the RISE Doro was built with. Firefighters are still monitoring the downtown building Tuesday after flames ripped through it starting Sunday night.
The question: Why was the eight-floor apartment building's frame built out of wood?
First Coast News spoke with both developers and attorneys not affiliated with the RISE Doro's construction, who say it's common for developers to use wood as a frame and it's often the choice because it's cheaper.
"I think it would be unique in this area if they're made out of something other than wood," said Jacksonville Real Estate Attorney Zach Roth with Ansbacher Law.
Roth says wood is a cheaper alternative for builders. Jacksonville Wealth Builders President Alex Sifakis tells First Coast News wood is the “least expensive way to build a seven-story, very dense building.” He says it’s customary and safe.
"The building code allows it up to a certain height," said Roth.
The foundation must be made out of something other than wood, like concrete. RISE President Greg Blaise mentioned the concrete foundation Monday, saying they have yet to see if that part of the building will be salvageable.
“The structure’s also a lot of pre-cast concrete," Blaise said. "There’s a parking deck and a podium, concrete podium, that God willing is unaffected and still sustainable and usable. If that’s the case then we will definitely try to do so. If it’s not and it’s unsafe as well then it will also come down, but it’s yet to be determined.”
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan says the wood framing is coming down and that safety is the number one priority.