We worked on a study to improve the quality of life of people affected by flooding in a central area of Montevideo. The basins under study, covering a total of 1,500 hectares, had a combined sewer system—meaning stormwater and wastewater in the same network—dating back to the early 20th century. This system no longer had the capacity to drain stormwater, causing flooding that affected 1,935 homes.

Our work focused on finding a solution to this issue. First, we conducted an alternatives study, considering both pipe reinforcement and flow attenuation. Then, we selected the most suitable option to address the main stormwater drainage problems.

The detailed design of the works for the first stage included:

• Five closed detention tanks, with capacities ranging from 2,000 to 13,000 m³.
• 950 meters of pipelines associated with these tanks.
• The reinforcement of 220 meters of an existing collector, with a closed rectangular section.

Additionally, we developed a socioeconomic and financing study to facilitate project implementation.

This project allowed us to design a comprehensive solution to mitigate flooding and improve the city’s drainage infrastructure, contributing to the well-being of the community.