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PUC review finds new seismic risk at Harry Tracy plant; staff recommends relocating two reservoirs at substantial added cost
Summary
PUC staff reported new geotechnical findings at the Harry Tracy Water Treatment Plant that identify a nearby fault strand and increased seismic vulnerability. Staff recommended Option 2—relocating two treated‑water reservoirs plus interim measures—estimating an added $153M–$183M above the approved ~$176M budget and said it will return with refined costs in July.
San Francisco Public Utilities Commission staff told the commission on Jan. 27 that new geotechnical studies at the Harry Tracy Water Treatment Plant revealed previously underappreciated seismic risk near two treated‑water reservoirs and recommended a substantial change in project scope.
Julie Labonte, presenting a Water System Improvement Program update, said follow‑up investigations identified two segments of a secondary feature called the Sarah Fault beneath and near plant reservoirs. The new analysis showed potential displacement on the eastern strand large enough to threaten reservoirs and connecting pipelines during a major San Andreas event, which would necessitate either significant strengthening work, relocating the reservoirs, or moving the entire plant.
‘‘Our consultants confirmed additional reliability work is required to…
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