Lincoln Park Pump Station Getting Overhaul

By Amy Sinclair

Construction began in early September to replace the aging Lincoln Park Pump Station, located at 36th Avenue and Clement Street, and the Lincoln Park Tank, a water storage tank on the hillside near 39th Avenue.

The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) and its contractor Trinet plan to be working in the area through early 2007.

The two facilities combine to provide potable drinking water and fire protection to nearby residences and businesses, the California Palace of the Legion of Honor and portions of Lincoln Park. The project is one of many local and regional Water System Improvement Program (WSIP) projects to repair, replace and seismically upgrade the Hetch Hetchy water system.

The SFPUC has worked closely with neighborhood groups, including the Planning Association for the Richmond (PAR), and local businesses for review, comment and suggestions about the project. Based on feedback, the project team made modifications to the roof, landscaping plan and the proposed site for the temporary pump station.

"We are working closely with neighborhood groups, Rec. and Park and the local golf course to ensure everyone's needs and concerns are addressed," said Project Manager Howard Fung. "This is one of many WSIP projects that will help meet the challenges of our water needs for many years to come."

The water storage tank was built in 1927 and the pump station in 1947. Its mechanical and electrical equipment has become outdated and does not meet current standards. The base supporting the water storage tank is seismically unsafe and in need of repair. In addition, the pump station's structure is undersized and does not meet current seismic and building codes. Replacement is needed to ensure system reliability.

The replacement of the pump station and tank will include demolition of existing facilities, construction of a new pump station with hydro-pneumatic tanks, new mechanical and electrical equipment, a new 100,000-gallon tank and installation of new service water mains near the site. Decorative fencing and landscaping will be added to secure the site and help the building blend in with the park setting.

Much of the construction will take place inside the park, which will help minimize the noise, dust and overall impact on neighbors. A temporary pump station at the site is in use during construction. Interruption of street and pedestrian traffic is expected to be minimal.

For more information about the project, call (415) 551-4659.

Amy Sinclair works in the SFPUC's communications department.