Rancho Palos Verdes will implement groundwater extraction improvements to stabilize Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex and safeguard critical infrastructure
Rancho Palos Verdes, California: $23.33 million
Project Description
The community of Rancho Palos Verdes faces challenges with the Portuguese Bend Landslide Complex. It is a highly active landslide area. It spans approximately 240 acres. The movement of land poses threats to critical infrastructure such as roadways, utilities, and homes. It is driven by groundwater dynamics and bentonite clay mineral layers.
The project aims to stabilize the landslide area. It will implement proven groundwater extraction improvements, including surface fracture in-filling, surface water improvements through natural swale and drainage systems, and the installation of subsurface water extraction systems. By reducing ground movement from an average of 18 inches per year to only 2 inches per year, the project mitigates the risk of major landslide movement. It protects essential utilities, preserves Palos Verdes Drive South as a vital arterial street and emergency route, decreases the need for annual repairs, and minimizes damage to homes in the landslide area.