Abstract: A first concrete element has a connecting member, and the connecting member of the first concrete element has a hole extending therethrough. A second concrete element has a connecting member, and the connecting member of the second concrete element has a threaded hole. A bolt is inserted through the hole of the connecting member of the first concrete element and is threadably secured into the threaded hole of the connecting member of the second concrete element so as to join the first and second concrete elements together. The connecting member of the second concrete member may be ductile so that earthquake energy may be dissipated in order to prevent significant structural damage in the presence of an earthquake.