On August 16, 2023, the Ross Valley Sanitary District held a significant meeting focused on the approval of a construction contract for the Woodlands Crossings project, aimed at addressing critical sewer infrastructure issues in the Kent Woodlands area. The proposed contract, with Precision Engineering, is valued at $1,926,665 and is designed to enhance the reliability of the district's sewer system.

The Woodlands Crossings project is part of a broader initiative to rehabilitate aging sewer infrastructure, particularly in areas where sewer lines intersect with creeks. This project follows previous efforts, including the 2022-2023 gravity sewer improvements, and is expected to alleviate capacity issues that have been identified in the field. The project will involve the removal of three sewer mains from creek flow paths, which is crucial for reducing the risk of environmental contamination and improving overall system reliability.

During the meeting, it was noted that the bid from Precision Engineering came in approximately 12% under the engineer's estimate, indicating a favorable financial outcome for the district. Although Precision Engineering is relatively new to the district, their references suggest they are capable of handling the specialized work required for this project, including directional drilling and sewer main replacement.

The discussions highlighted the importance of this project not only for immediate infrastructure needs but also for its long-term benefits to the community. By addressing high-risk sewer assets and improving the overall capacity of the system, the district aims to enhance public health and environmental safety.

Looking ahead, the district plans to continue its efforts in sewer rehabilitation, with another gravity sewer project expected to go out to bid in the fall. This ongoing commitment to infrastructure improvement reflects the district's proactive approach to managing its sewer system and ensuring the community's needs are met effectively.