River Bank Stabilization Utilizing Rock Vanes in Puerto Rico

This paper outlines the engineering controls designed and installed to stabilize a river bank segment of approximately 350 m at Río Gurabo in Puerto Rico using rock vanes. The design strategy consisted on providing a sustainable, environmental friendly, and economically feasible structural control to stabilize the bank and prevent future erosion. Structural controls includes the installation of seven rock vanes to redirect the erosive forces from the river bank toward the center of the channel, and the construction of a rock bench which serves as an adequate structure to tie in the rock vanes, and provide additional protection to the bank toe. This document summarizes the planning, geomorphologic and engineering evaluations, permitting, design, and construction phase of the project. System performance of the flood event associated with Hurricane María on September 20, 2017, is discussed.