Breakwater Design in the Chesapeake Bay: Dealing with the End Effects

by C. S. Hardaway, Jr., Virginia Inst of Marine Science, Gloucester Point, United States,
J. R. Gunn, Virginia Inst of Marine Science, Gloucester Point, United States,
R. N. Reynolds, Virginia Inst of Marine Science, Gloucester Point, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Coastal Engineering Considerations in Coastal Zone Management

Abstract:

This paper documents various methods for treating the terminal ends of headland breakwater systems. Twelve sites in Chesapeake Bay were selected for study. In selecting design alternatives, it is important to consider acting coastal processes as well as shoreline management issues such as adjacent habitats, property boundaries and funding limitations. The primary objective is to create a smooth transition in energy levels between the shoreline reach protected by the breakwater system and the adjacent, unprotected shoreline. This can be accomplished by modifying structure crest heights, widths and orientations, such that the energy level is gradually rather than abruptly stepped up (or down) as the breakwater system is terminated. In the case where the adjacent shoreline has already been modified by a structure, termination is somewhat easier, with the primary consideration being to maintain the integrity of both systems.

Subject Headings: Coastal protection structures | Breakwaters | Shoreline protection | Bays | Structural design | Littoral drift | Financing

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