SVCW Outfall Replacement

For Silicon Valley Clean Water (SVCW), this transformative project involved the replacement of the initial 660 feet of a 66-inch diameter reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) responsible for conveying treated water 6,700 feet offshore—from the primary treatment plant structure, underground, to an outfall extending into the deep-water channel of the San Francisco Bay. The RCP was upgraded to a cutting-edge continuous system of fused High-Density Polyethylene Pipe (HDPE) with a robust flange connection at the plant, eliminating flexible joints.

Embedded in unstable Young Bay mud, the original pipe experienced a sudden separation of several major joints, prompting an unforeseen shift from a planned replacement to emergency repairs. In a swift and collaborative effort between SVCW and Power, an innovative emergency repair methodology was developed, serving both as an immediate solution and a permanent upgrade, all while reducing costs by 30% compared to the allocated budget. This approach not only minimized shoring and by-pass costs but also significantly extended the pipeline's overall longevity.

The comprehensive repair of SVCW's treatment plant effluent outfall leaks was successfully executed, ensuring no overflows and minimal disruption to discharge pumping operations. The installation of the new HDPE pipe, rigorous system testing, meticulous backfilling, and the removal of shoring have all been completed, marking the triumphant conclusion of this critical project. This achievement underscores SVCW's commitment to innovative solutions, cost-effectiveness, and environmental stewardship.