Diseño integral de protecciones para vía de entrada a la comuna loma alta, Santa Elena

Abstract

This project focuses on the integrated design of roadway solutions incorporating geotechnical and hydraulic measures to protect the potable water conveyance system and the access road to the Loma Alta Community, which are affected by surface runoff, unstable slopes, and frequent flooding. Based on the analysis of topographic and hydrological data, a 2-hour design hyetograph was developed, and the hydraulic behavior of the flow was modeled using HEC-RAS. From these analyses, a drainage system consisting of channels and box culverts was designed, incorporating energy dissipation structures to control flow velocities, resulting in a maximum velocity of 3.48 m/s. In addition, slope stability and erosion analyses were performed, identifying an unstable slope for which a retaining wall was designed to protect the community cemetery along a 150 m section. A new pavement structure was also defined for the access road, which exhibited structural failures. Finally, an environmental assessment was conducted using the Leopold Matrix, confirming the environmental feasibility of the project. Overall, the proposed integrated solution improves surface water conveyance capacity, reduces the risk of landslides and roadway damage, and enhances the sustainability of the roadway infrastructure. Keywords: Drainage system, slope stability, surface runoff, hydraulic modeling.