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

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 electrohydraulic, unidirectional, spectral wave generator and an automated data acquisition and control system were used in model operation.