Project Specifics

Geosyntec completed a coastal hazard risk evaluation to inform the siting and design of a new Park Hyatt luxury hotel and resort on the southeast peninsula of St. Kitts.

Geosyntec Scope of Services

We conducted a coastal engineering assessment and investigation of coastal flood hazards that could potentially affect the property. The coastal hazard analysis, which focused on the potential effects of passing tropical storms and hurricanes, was conducted to inform recommendations for coastal development setbacks and building elevations. The end product of the analysis included estimates of hurricane flood hazards and a flood map of the project area similar to those provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the United States. These maps provide base flood elevations for the 100-year (1 percent chance of occurring in any year) flood plain and indicate wave hazard zones. Taking into account the base flood elevations, we provided minimum finished floor elevations that accommodated sea-level rise, as well as a freeboard.

Notable Accomplishments

Geosyntec conducted a site assessment, coordinated bathymetric surveys, and performed numerical modeling of storm surge and wave conditions under 100-year return-period hurricane conditions. Our staff developed a FEMA CHAMP model and analysis for wave runup and setup effects, assessed beach-erosion potential with SBEACH model, and evaluated historical shoreline erosion. We also summarized out recommendations for coastal setbacks, design flood levels, and building-finished floor elevations, offered recommendations for beach improvements, and developed a coastal monitoring plan to support future maintenance and management.

Note: At the time of this project, Geosyntec practitioners were contracted as ATM, which was acquired by Geosyntec.

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