SFPUC authorizes agreement to build Pacifica recycled‑water project, estimates 38 million gallons/year savings

The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission voted to authorize the general manager to execute an agreement with the North Coast County Water District to construct and operate the Pacifica recycled water project.

Michael Carlin, assistant general manager for water, said the item will make the project real by approving the agreement and asking the Board of Supervisors for a supplemental appropriation to fund construction. He said the project fits SFPUC’s strategy to diversify water sources and partners with outside agencies and Recreation & Parks, which will be a customer for irrigation use. "It saves about 38,000,000 gallons a year," Carlin said of the project’s projected water savings.

Commissioners inquired about the change of site from Sharp Park to Gypsy Hill and environmental impacts. Carlin said the move responded to local concerns and used existing tanks and access at Gypsy Hill; the agency completed supplemental environmental documents and said that additional pipe length increased costs only modestly and that additional environmental review documents were prepared for each significant change.

A public commenter, Jennifer Clary of Clean Water Action, urged approval and noted Peninsula jurisdictions’ experience with recycled water and environmental tradeoffs, including endangered‑species concerns raised previously at Sharp Park. The commission moved, seconded and approved the item by voice vote.

Staff will proceed to request the supplemental appropriation from the Board of Supervisors and aim to begin construction early next year pending funding and final agreements.