Wave Conditions for Two Phases of Harbor Development in Los Angeles Outer Harbor, Los Angeles, California: Coastal Model Investigation

Source: https://erdc-library.erdc.dren.mil/jspui/ A physical model study, using a 1:100 scale (undistorted) hydraulic model of Los Angeles Outer Harbor, California, was conducted to investigate short-period storm wave conditions for proposed harbor development located near the Angel's Gate entrance. The model reproduced the proposed harbor expansion, Angel's Gate entrance, portions of the existing breakwaters, and sufficient bathymetry in San Pedro Bay to permit proper reproduction of the required test waves. The model then was reactivated to determine the optimum plan for protection of the south mooring area from locally generated waves in the harbors complex if the adjacent Port of Long Beach and/or the Pactex landfills are not constructed initially. Finally, tests reported herein describe wave conditions in various mooring areas during phases of construction. An 80-ft-long electro-hydraulic, unidirectional, spectral wave generator and an automated data acquisition and control system were used in model operation. It was concluded from results of these tests that : (A.) As tested, the originally proposed first phase of construction (Plan 1) will result in wave heights well within the established criteria of 2.5 ft in the dry bulk terminal and 1 .5 ft in the container terminal for locally generated waves within the harbors complex. (B.) A total of 3,000 ft of breakwater length can be removed from the first phase of construction (Plan 11) and the established wave height acceptance criteria will still be met for locally generated wind waves. (C.) The Plan 11 alternative of the first phase of construction (3,000 ft of breakwater removed) will provide adequate wave protection to the berthing areas during periods of storm wave attack incident from deep water. (D.) The second phase of construction (Plan 14) will provide adequate wave protection to the berthing areas during periods of storm wave attack incident from deep water.