This is nearing completion, but it is really only a second step in a series of temporary solutions. The original containment sarcophagus for Chernobyl is nearly 30 years old, and given the conditions under which it was constructed, it's in rough shape. The new containment system is impressive, but according to an article in the Economist, it will only last about 100 years (I'd put money on it to last longer, but who knows what will happen).
Designing for nuclear containment pushes the boundaries of modern permanent architecture. Despite the superior track record of ancient masonry structures, we don't seem to regard that as an option. Why are we putting our faith in new technology. Strange to hear this coming from me. I usually laugh when someone says "The don't build 'em like they used to."
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