Committee approves $1.2 million renovation to expand Oakland wastewater plant office space

The Infrastructure Committee on Aug. 19 approved a $1.2 million renovation and expansion at the Oakland wastewater treatment plant to move collections and operations staff into an expanded, safer facility.

Director Davis told the committee, "Currently, this project is estimated at $1,200,000 which we plan on cash funding," and described cramped, aged office space — including a north building constructed in 1929 that lacks ADA access, experiences leaks and has inadequate restroom facilities.

Davis said the expansion of B Building will allow staff who currently occupy the dated north building to work in a single, safer location, improving operations and staff welfare. The project will be funded from the utilities’ water pollution control facility rehab program; staff said design work and contracting are advanced and the city has a contract ready so construction could begin promptly if approved.

Davis described the building as having repeated environmental and comfort issues for staff — "When it's hot outside, it is extremely hot in this building. When it's cold, it's very cold," — and said the renovation was judged the most economical option compared with new construction.

The committee discussed scheduling; staff said work would be sequenced to allow re-asphalting of the parking lot and to complete work before winter if possible. Jason Tryon of Public Works will manage this work as part of existing capital programs.

The motion to approve the project was made, seconded and passed 3-0.

Outcome: capital improvement project approved, cash-funded from utilities program; staff to proceed with contract and scheduling.