New Headworks Facility
Overview
As part of the Sewer System Improvement Program (SSIP), the SFPUC is investing over $3 billion to upgrade and modernize the aging Southeast Treatment Plant to reduce odors, be better prepared for earthquakes and sea level rise, and ensure operational redundancy and efficiency. When complete, the city’s largest wastewater pollution treatment plant will be transformed into a resource recovery facility that smells better, looks better and works better.
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Project Background
What is Headworks?
The first step in the wastewater treatment process occurs at the Headworks facility where debris (such as baby wipes) and grit (like sand) are removed from the wastewater stream. This process is critical to protect downstream equipment, help control odors, and ensure that the SEP can operate efficiently. The existing 35-year old Headworks facility is at the end of its useful life and is unable to adequately perform these functions.The Headworks Facility Project will construct a new Headworks facility, upgrade the Bruce Flynn Pump Station, and construct a new odor control structure.
Project Benefits
This project will provide significant operational and functional improvements to this critical facility:
- Increase efficiency of treatment processes and protect downstream equipment
- Improve the ability for these critical facilities to withstand a 7.8 earthquake on the San Andres Fault
- Ensure these critical facilities can prepare for the possibility of expected sea level rise of 36 inches by 2100
- Continue to protect public health and the environment
- Minimize odors using advanced odor control equipment
- Improve operational reliability and flexibility
Funding for this project has been provided in full or in part through an agreement with the State Water Resources Control Board. California’s Clean Water State Revolving Fund is capitalized through a variety of funding sources, including grants from the United States Environmental Protection Agency and state bond proceeds. The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the foregoing, nor does mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
Construction Updates
Visit the Southeast Treatment Plant Construction page for updates.
Office Hours and Contact Information
We want to hear from you. Use any of the below methods to connect with our team!
Construction Hotline: (415) 551-4737
Email: ssip@sfwater.org
After hours: Call 3-1-1 -
What to Expect During Construction
- Noise: Noise, vibration, dust, and traffic impacts in the work zone
- Access: Residents near the work zone will maintain access to their homes and businesses
- Construction Hours: Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. with occasional weekend work from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Residents and businesses will be notified in advance when weekend, nighttime, holiday or 24-hour work is required
- Transportation Impacts: Streets will be open for traffic throughout construction, with optional detour routes available. Delays should be expected. No impacts to Muni service are expected at this time
- Parking Impacts: Staging of materials and equipment in the parking lane on the southside of Evans Avenue between Rankin Street and Quint Street continues. This condition is anticipated to remain until 2023
- Sewer Service: No interruptions to sewer service will occur during construction
- Project Materials
