Commission Also Approves Key Next Steps on New Recycled Water & Groundwater Projects as SFPUC Pushes for More Regional Conservation, Diverse Water Sources

San Francisco, CA: The members of the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) unanimously approved three resolutions on Tuesday to further the agency’s diversification of water resources through additional conservation measures, a new recycled water project, and development of new local groundwater sources. These additional water sources will continue to help the SFPUC continue meeting its water delivery obligations to customers throughout the Bay Area while helping to limit future additional water diversions from the Tuolumne River.

On Tuesday, the SFPUC urged the Board of Supervisors to amend the city’s Housing and Building Codes to require the installation of water conservation devices before a building is sold or when it is being upgraded. This is joint effort with San Francisco Department of Environment and Department of Building Codes. The proposed legislation, which much next be considered by the Board of Supervisors, would require low flow toilets and urinals, fixing all leaks prior to sale, faucets and aerators with maximum 1.5 gallons per minute and water efficient showerheads.

The Commission also authorized the General Manager to work with North Coast County Water District (NCCWD) to construct and operate the Pacifica Recycled Water Project. This project would replace the use of drinking water for golf course irrigation with recycled water. The SFPUC would pay for nearly 80% of this project; however two grants will help offset some of the SFPUC’s investment for initial construction costs. The Commission also agreed to extend the engineering consulting contract for a Groundwater Conjunctive Use Project establishing groundwater wells in northern San Mateo County and San Francisco that could produce 7.3 million gallons per day (mgd) of water for use during a drought.

On Thursday, October 30, the Planning Commission will consider final certification of the Water System Improvement Program Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) which includes new Water Supply Diversification projects. That same day, in a special meeting at 5 p.m., the SFPUC will consider adopting the findings of the Program EIR and a proposed mitigation plan. For more information about any of these projects and the WSIP visit sfwater.org/WSIP.