COMANCO Delivers Advanced Landfill Containment Solution in Puerto Rico Through Smart Planning, Teamwork, and Adaptability
Some projects demand more than technical expertise—they require adaptability, teamwork, and the ability to make the most of every available hour. COMANCO recently completed another successful landfill containment project in Puerto Rico, where strategic planning and a dedicated field crew kept the project moving despite challenging weather conditions.
Located on the island’s unique terrain, this project was part of a larger leachate collection system designed to help safely manage waste materials and protect the surrounding environment. By installing a multi-layer containment system, the project will help contain waste, collect and manage leachate, and reduce the risk of potential impacts to the aquifer beneath the site.
While Puerto Rico offers beautiful scenery and a unique working environment, the island’s weather can also present significant construction challenges. For the COMANCO crew, strong coastal winds became one of the project’s biggest obstacles.
Installing a Three-Layer Containment System
The project involved the installation of three critical geosynthetic components that work together as a high-performance environmental containment system:
- 195,300 SF of Geosynthetic Clay Liner (GCL)
- 196,800 SF of geocomposite drainage material
- 198,450 square feet of 60-mil double-sided textured HDPE geomembrane liner
Together, these materials provide multiple layers of environmental protection. The GCL provides a low-permeability barrier, the geocomposite promotes efficient drainage, and the textured HDPE geomembrane serves as the primary containment liner. Combined, these geosynthetic materials create a reliable system engineered to meet the demanding performance requirements of modern landfill construction.
Working Before Sunrise to Stay Ahead of Puerto Rico’s Coastal Winds
While Puerto Rico offers breathtaking scenery and a one-of-a-kind work environment, the island’s weather can create unique construction challenges. For the COMANCO crew, strong coastal winds quickly became one of the project’s most significant obstacles.
With sustained winds averaging 25 to 27 mph and gusts reaching nearly 30 mph, the crew adjusted their work schedule to take advantage of the calmest part of the day. Instead of beginning at sunrise, material deployment started around 3:00 a.m.
Working under the illumination of four light towers, the crew carefully deployed liner materials in the early morning hours before stronger winds arrived. This proactive approach allowed production to continue safely while protecting the integrity of the geosynthetic materials during installation.
It is another example of how successful projects often depend on thoughtful planning and the willingness of experienced crews to adapt to changing conditions.
Leadership That Sets the Pace
Every successful project begins with strong leadership, and this one was no exception.
General Superintendent Arnulfo Martinez brought energy, experience, and enthusiasm to the jobsite from start to finish. His positive attitude created momentum throughout the project, and his leadership helped establish a culture where safety, quality workmanship, and customer service remained top priorities.
That leadership was reflected throughout the crew as team members worked together to overcome weather challenges, maintain production goals, and deliver a high-quality installation for the client.
Building Reliable Containment Systems Wherever the Job Takes Us
From mainland projects to island installations, COMANCO continues to deliver industry-leading landfill containment systems, HDPE liner installations, and geosynthetic construction solutions across a wide range of environments.
Whether adapting to challenging weather, unique site conditions, or demanding schedules, our experienced crews remain focused on installing environmental containment systems that perform reliably for decades to come.
SAFETY ★ QUALITY ★ SERVICE
COMANCO is an environmental, commercial, and civil construction company specializing in constructing containment facilities.
Every successful project reflects the planning, teamwork, and field expertise that drive COMANCO forward. Contact COMANCO to learn more about our landfill containment and geosynthetic installation services.
4301 Sterling Commerce Dr, Plant City, FL 33566
(813) 988-8829