SFPUC declares emergency for North Shore force main leak; dig‑up and replacement possible

Sewer operations staff briefed the commission that a leak on the North Shore force main near the Embarcadero has resisted temporary sealing and may require an open dig and replacement.

Tommy Imwalla said operations crews found water on the street deck near the Embarcadero and traced it to a leak in the North Shore Pump Station's force main. "We have sent divers in, and they've gone in as far as 1,500 feet to take a look at the leaks," Imwalla said. He told commissioners that three temporary seals have been installed and that all have failed, and reported staff would try a remote inspection and other less‑disruptive techniques but warned that "we're going to have to... do a dig up at this particular time" if those efforts fail.

The replacement work had been programmed and scheduled for an April 10 contract action; Imwalla said staff declared an emergency for current work and may accelerate a second emergency authorization and a replacement contract to avoid further disruption. Commissioners asked questions about sequencing and impacts and staff said they will explore all options to minimize disruption to businesses and the public while ensuring reliable conveyance to the treatment plant.

Next steps

Staff will continue remote inspection (including deploying a ball inside the line for closer inspection), coordinate with other utilities on conduits and, if necessary, expedite the planned replacement contract. The April 10 procurement date remains the baseline but may be advanced if inspections confirm a need for immediate excavation.