Possible Night Work in early January

The New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel contractor has been making necessary adjustments to the tunnel boring machine (TBM) inside the shaft. In early January 2010, limited crews may work into the evening. If night work needs to occur, we will provide dates and times as soon as possible. If the contractor continues to need more time to meet the project schedule, crews could work longer evenings going forward into the early Spring.

During this night work, the majority of activities take place inside the shaft and tunnel. The crane and site lights may be used. The project team will follow all required nighttime noise limits as specified in the project Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Some soil may be lifted from the shaft but will not be relocated to the upper terrace until the following daytime shift.

We will continue to have on-call staff monitoring the situation. You may call our 24 hour dispatch 650-872-5900.

New Video Highlights WSIP Progress

Here is a new video highlighting the progress we are making in rebuilding and seismically retrofitting the Hetch Hetchy water system.

North Shaft Update

At the North Shaft Site of the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel project, vault work is nearing completion.

The valves and pipes within the vault have now been installed and the cast-in-place concrete foundation and walls have been poured.

Tunnel boring continues from the South Shaft, heading in the direction of the North Shaft.

The project team wishes everyone Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year.

Did You Know? Way Cool Stats about the TBM

Okay, I admit that these stats are way cool, even for non-engineers.

The tunnel boring machine (TBM) in use to create the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel has 23 disc cutters in the cutterhead and they are each 17 inches in diameter.

It has a torque of 593,920 foot-lbs and an operating thrust of 1,150,000 lbs operating.

It has 5 gantry cars in its trailing gear, 2 muck conveyors and the total length of the shield and trailing gear is 155 feet.

Here is a photo showing part of its 155 foot long length during assembly in September.

TBM Making Progress in Tunnel!

The tunnel boring machine (TBM) at the South Shaft location is making progress creating the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel!

As of this week, the TBM has mined 401 feet so far, and with the starter tunnel distance included, that brings us to 532 feet or 12.4% complete.

Here is a photo from the bottom of the South Shaft.

Happy Holidays from the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel project staff

Happy Holidays from the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel project staff. We appreciate your interest, support and patience during this important project.

We wish you and your families a wonderful holiday season.

Night Work Nov 24-25, 30 and Dec 1st

As you know, the contractor has been making necessary adjustments to the tunnel boring machine (TBM) inside the shaft during weeknights. The TBM is now launched! On Nov 24-25, 30 and Dec 1st, limited crews will work until approximately 11pm. At this time, the contractor does not plan to work on Thursday or Friday. If the contractor continues to need more time to meet the project schedule, crews could work longer evenings in December.

During this night work, the majority of activities take place inside the shaft and tunnel. The crane and site lights may be used. The project team will follow all required nighttime noise limits as specified in the project Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Some soil may be lifted from the shaft but will not be relocated to the upper terrace until the following daytime shift.

We will continue to have on-call staff monitoring the situation. You may call our 24 hour dispatch 650-872-5900.

UC Berkeley Engineering Students Tour South Shaft Site

On Friday, November 13, a group of 27 graduate students from the University of California at Berkeley toured the South Shaft site.

Members of the project team led the tour and shared information about the project.

The students are taking an engineering geology class through UC Berkeley's Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

Safety Reminders on Polhemus Road

We are committed to safety and recently posted new signs on Polhemus Road alerting drivers, cyclists and pedestrians about trucks entering and exiting the roadway near our South Shaft site.

Please use caution in the area as we expect more trucks entering and exiting the site when we begin boring the tunnel.

Please also watch for deer! They often graze on the side of Polhemus Road and often cross in front of traffic. Please watch speed and use caution.

Temporary Night Work to Begin Friday, November 13th

In order to make critical adjustments to the tunnel boring machine prior to launch, contractor Shank Balfour/Beatty will extend their work hours to 11pm at the South Shaft site beginning on Friday, November 13th. Night work will NOT take place on Saturday or Sunday nights.

During the night work, a smaller crew of workers will be on site and the majority of the work will take place inside the shaft and tunnel. The crane and site lights will be in use. The project team will follow all required nighttime noise limits as specified in the project Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Some soil may be lifted from the shaft but will not be relocated to the upper terrace until the following daytime shift.

Maureen Barry will be available at 415-350-4929 or via email at mbarry@sfwater.org after 7pm in case neighbors have concerns. She will have direct access to the field supervisor.

What Neighbors Can Expect in November and December
Neighbors near the South Shaft site will see crews continuing to work inside the shaft, tunnel and maintenance shop. If critical adjustments are successful, tunnel boring is expected to begin in mid to late November. As stated in the EIR and during public meetings, tunnel boring may take place 24 hours a day if necessary.

November Update

The contractor is in the process of testing the tunnel boring machine (TBM) and will begin mining the tunnel soon. Once the mining process begins, rings of concrete segments will be installed by the TBM inside the tunnel to provide ground support.

The holidays will be here soon! We do not plan to work on the following dates: November 26 and 27. December 25 and January 1st.



Here is a recent photo of the South Shaft site showing the precast concrete segments that will be installed inside the tunnel.

Crews to begin Preliminary Potholing in Daly City on Monday

The San Andreas Pipeline No.3 Installation project has began full construction in San Francisco's Merced Manor neighborhood. In preparing for full construction to commence next year in Daly City. Mountain Cascade, Inc. contractor working for the SFPUC will begin potholing on Wilshire Avenue in mid November.

The preliminary stages of potholing of the construction project will consist of crews verifying the existing placement of pipelines and other utilities in the following locations:

Wilshire Avenue to Sheffield Drive 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sheffield Drive to John Daly Boulevard 7a.m. - 5p.m.
John Daly Boulevard to Poncetta Drive 7a.m. - 5p.m.

Potholing is expected to be completed by December 2009.

For continuing updates on this project, please visit www.sfwater.org/sanandreas3

Work Lights on Site

As the days get shorter, work crews are starting to use work lights late in the afternoon at the South Shaft site.

With the end of Daylight Savings Time this weekend, work crews will need to turn on work lights earlier starting on Monday, November 2nd.

The work lights face downward to prevent light from shining into neighborhood homes. If you have any concerns, contact us via this blog or at 650-212-0165.

Don't forget to turn your clocks back on Sunday, November 1st! Happy Halloween!

Safe Roadways: Two Tips for Safety Near our Worksites

Trucks Entering/Exiting on Polhemus Road
With tunnel boring beginning at the South Shaft soon, the contractor expects a slight increase in truck traffic entering and exiting the site on Polhemus Road. The project is committed to safety and will remind all truck drivers to use caution when driving, entering and exiting on Polhemus Road. Please watch for these trucks entering and exiting the site during work hours. For the safety of everyone, please follow the posted speed limit on Polhemus Road.

10 MPH Speed Limit on Crystal Springs Road
Please also remember the 10 mile per hour speed limit on Crystal Springs Road near the intersection of Polhemus at the site of our North Shaft. The section is 10 mph to ensure safety for bicycle riders, pedestrians, cars and the work teams at the site. Please follow the posted speed limit at all times. Thank you.

Views from the Tunnel

Here are some very recent photos of the inside of the tunnel at the South Shaft. Tunnel boring has not yet started. Crews are continuing to assemble machinery in preparation for tunnel boring.

The first photo is a shot of the Tunnel Boring Machine trailing gear inside the starter tunnel.

The second photo is a view looking upward from inside the South Shaft.

The third photo shows the inside of the tunnel.

TBM Successfully Lowered into South Shaft on Sept 30th

Great news! The Tunnel Boring Machine was successfully lowered into the South Shaft at about 7:30am on September 30th! In October, it will begin boring the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel under Polhemus Road.

Special thanks to the many skilled workers and staff, and especially crane operator Lawrence Cary, who worked calm and steady to lower the TBM 155 feet down into the shaft.



We appreciate our neighbor who delivered the great photographs! See photo number two.

Update! TBM Lowering on Wednesday, Sept 30th!

The massive Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) is scheduled to be lowered into the South Shaft starting around 7am on Wednesday, September 30th. The process could take several hours, depending on conditions at the site. Be sure to watch from your homes and send us any photos you take!

We will post photos and possibly video in the next week! The TBM and other equipment will be placed in the shaft over the next week. In October, they will begin boring the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel under Polhemus Road.

Please Respect Safety: The project team has noticed golf balls at the South Shaft site. Please respect safety and do not hit golf balls onto the site as they have the potential to severely injure workers and staff and cause severe damage to equipment.

TBM Lowering into South Shaft on Sept 29 or 30th

The Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) will be lowered into the South Shaft next week - on either Sept 29th or 30th, depending on conditions at the site.

The TBM will be used to bore the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel under Polhemus Road. The amazing machine will eat through rock and other materials to bore the 4,200 foot long tunnel.

Watch this blog for the updated date and time the TBM will be lowered.

Neighbors - we would love to see photos you take from your homes during the TBM lowering! Please contact us via the blog and we will upload photos.

Please join us on the Sawyer Camp Trail on Saturday, Sept 26th!

Please join the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission and the San Mateo County Parks Department on the Sawyer Camp Trail this Saturday, September 26th from 9am to 1pm.

We will have a table near the kiosks with information about upcoming Water System Improvement Program projects on the peninsula and information about proposed new trails.

Neighbors Get Inside Look at TBM during Launch Event on Sept 18th

Curious neighbors joined San Francisco Public Utilities Commission staff and the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel project team on Friday, September 18th for a behind-the-scenes look at the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM). The group looked inside the inner workings of the TBM cutter head and stepped inside the TBM trailing gear to learn how the electrical and hydraulic system work.

Construction managers Victor Romero and Sarah Wilson answered questions and described in detail how the TBM, trailing gear and muck removal equipment will be lowered into the south shaft in early October in preparation for boring the tunnel. Regional Project Manager Husam Masri shared with the group the importance of the project and how it is an integral part of the Hetch Hetchy Water System.

Watch this blog for photos of the TBM being lowered into the South Shaft in early October.

Friday at 11am: Preview the TBM

The tunnel boring machine (TBM) that will bore the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel is completely assembled and ready for viewing.

Neighbors are invited to join the Project Team and learn more about this customized TBM that was designed by the contractor and fabricated for this project in Osaka, Japan.

Join us on Friday, September 18 at 11 am at the project site: 525 Polhemus Road.

San Mateo County Officials Visit

Last week, WSIP Director Julie Labonte toured the tunnel job site and shaft with San Mateo County representatives who were interested in our progress and seeing the tunnel boring machine. Pictured from left to right Husam Masri, Regional Project Manager; Diana Shu and Joe LoCoco of San Mateo County, WSIP Director Labonte, and Curtis Bahten, Project Superintendent.




Join us on Friday to inspect the Tunnel boring machine (TBM) yourself.

You're Invited! TBM Launch September 18th!

You’re Invited!! Tunnel Boring Machine Launch on Friday, September 18th

Join us at the South Shaft at 525 Polhemus Road at 11am, Friday, September 18th for the official launch of the NCSBT Tunnel Boring Machine!

Learn how it works, meet the project team and take photographs next to the massive machine! RSVP required by noon on September 16th via email: newcstunnel@sfwater.org or phone 650-212-0165.

SFPUC to begin Prepping for Installation of San Andreas Pipeline No. 3

The San Andreas Pipeline No. 3 Installation will be replacing an aging pipeline, with a newly constructed 4 miles extension from Daly City to San Francisco.

Work will commence near the County line and proceed north. Construction south of John Daly Boulevard will begin after January 2010.

In early September, SFPUC will begin preliminary stages of the construction project by potholing, or verifying the existing placement of pipelines and other utilities. Potholing is expected to be completed by the end of October 2009.


What to expect?
Contractor will need to restrict parking around locations where potholing will take place. Advance notice will be given 72-hours in advance.

If work is not commenced prior to noon, parking is available to the public.


Workdays and Hours
Monday-Friday 7:00 am - 5:00 pm

No construction will occur outside of these posted hours without advanced written notice.


Traffic
Minimal traffic impact, possible detours.


Noise
Noise levels will be in compliance with San Francisco Noise Ordinance and the noise will be limited to the immediate work areas.

Complete construction duration for San Andreas Pipeline No. 3 will be from:
September 2009 - January 2012

For more information on San Andreas Pipeline No. 3, please visit sfwater.org/wsip

San Andreas Pipeline No. 3 Installation Notice

San Andreas Pipeline No. 3 Installation will commence construction in September 2009.

Please look out for the 30-day construction notice.

Valve Lot Improvements begin in South San Francisco and Daly City

Construction work on various upgrades and improvements at the Baden Valve Lot in South San Francisco, and the San Pedro Valve Lot in Daly City has started. This work is critical to provide local residents with reliable drinking water.

Construction Duration

South San Francisco:
Monday to Friday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm.
Duration: May 2009 – Spring 2011

Daly City:
Monday to Friday: 7:30 am -5:00 pm
Duration: May 2009 – Winter 2009

Construction noise can be expected during these times, but is not anticipated to exceed local noise ordinances. Noise monitoring will be performed throughout construction. On occasion, minor traffic impacts during equipment deliveries can be expected. No parking impacts are anticipated. We will notify neighborhoods and businesses individually for any major construction activities.

Controlled Blasting Comes to an End!!

Great news! The contractor completed a controlled blast today, August 31st and no other blasts are currently scheduled!

We will alert everyone if the contractor needs to blast again in the future but at this time, no controlled blasts are scheduled.

Thank you to all neighbors for your patience during the controlled blasting. We know you've heard and felt them and we appreciate your support and patience through this difficult part of the project.

We are planning a public event at the South Shaft site in September so everyone can see the Tunnel Boring Machine. More details soon!

Controlled Blasts Nearing Completion!

We hope to end controlled blasting very, very soon, with one more blast scheduled for Monday, August 31st at approximately 10am, depending on conditions at the site.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.

All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blast Schedule for August 26-28

The contractor has scheduled controlled blasts at the South Shaft on Wednesday - Friday, August 26-28th. Each blast is scheduled for approximately 10am, depending on conditions at the site. We will provide an update if dates change.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.

All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blasts Drawing to a Close

Contractor reports that there are ten or fewer controlled blasts left on the starter tunnel at the south shaft. That means we can expect some blasting nearly every day for the next two weeks. But if all goes well, that would be the end of it. This would certainly be ahead of our previously announced schedule of mid-September to end the blasting activity. We'll post approximate times for next week's blasts as soon as they are confirmed.

Blast Schedule for Remainder of Week

Controlled blasts are scheduled for Wednesday at 11:00 am, Thursday at 9:00 am, and Friday at 10:00 am. We will provide you with updates if conditions in the field dictate any changes to the schedule.

The anticipated finish time for the controlled blasts is about one month or less with 4-5 shots per week. The starter tunnel is now 80 feet long. Final length will be approximately 100 feet.

The contractor continues to perform within the thresholds for noise, vibration and air quality standards. Measurements are conducted daily.

Dust Mitigation
The project contractor has implemented additional mitigation measures in response to dust complaints from neighbors.

No Blast scheduled for Tuesday

Just a reminder that the contractor has no shaft detonations scheduled for Tuesday, August 18. I will post the schedule for Wednesday through Friday, as soon as it is confirmed.

A Look Inside the Shaft

Left: The drill is lowered down into the shaft and on right, worker loads the drilling holes prior to blasting.

Friday blast around noon; end of double blasts

Tail tunnel excavation is complete, and that means that two blasts a day are no longer necessary. Today's blast will occur around noon, similar to Thursday.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and continue to be measured constantly. Late today, check out photos from inside the tunnel.

Neighbor Helps Get the Job Done

This morning, Gene Ciranni, on right, a neighbor from Ascension Drive, helped Jim Mulkey, one of the contractor's superintendent's and a licensed blaster, set off the second underground blast around 10:30 am. On Thursday, there will be only one blast, and it is scheduled between 11 and 11:30 am.

Controlled Blast Tuesday around 9 am, Two Wed.

I just learned that there will be one blast today and two tomorrow. You can expect sound pressure around 9 am or within 30 or 40 minutes of that time. The contractor is planning two more for tomorrow, but I do not have the times confirmed. Also, one on Thursday and another on Friday.

Controlled Blasts for Week of 8/10

For the week of August 10, blasts are currently scheduled for Monday morning as early as 8 am and on Tuesday the contractor intends to perform two blasts. We will post additional information as the contractor refines his upcoming schedule for the north and south shaft areas.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly. We were pleased to hear that Thursday's blast was less disruptive for neighbors. The Construction Manager noted that atmospheric conditions were different yesterday and cloud cover and wind (or lack of both) have a big impact on perception of sound pressure at a distance that translates into the shaking that neighbors feel.

The contractor intends to perform controlled blasting once or twice a day between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday through the week of August 17. All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

As you may know, Amy Sinclair is on vacation through August 21. I will be coordinating directly with you through that time. Maureen

Controlled Blast Schedule Update - Week of August 3rd

A blast is scheduled for Wednesday, 8/5 between 12 and 1pm. Additional blasts may take place on Thursday. Blasting is not planned for Friday. Multiple blasts per day may continue into next week as needed - usually one in the morning and one late afternoon.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Project Update/Bike Race on Sunday. Aug 2nd

Project Update
The contractor is forming the starter and tail tunnels at the bottom of the South Shaft. The tunnel boring machine (TBM) is being assembled on site and will begin its work in early October.
Watch for new photos soon!

Tour de Peninsula on Sunday, August 2nd
Local residents may notice bike riders on local roads on Sunday, August 2nd. The Tour de Peninsula 2009 returns to the area! To make sure the roads are as clean as possible, the contractor used a street sweeper machine this week on roads near our project.

Please watch the roads around San Mateo for bike riders on Sunday!

10 MPH Speed Limit Posted at Crystal Springs/Polhemus
And a reminder that the posted speed limit on Crystal Springs Road near the intersection of Polhemus Road at the site of our North Shaft is 10 mph at all times while posted during our project. This speed limit is for everyone's safety. And please always watch for bikes and pedestrians in that area.

Controlled Blasts Scheduled for August 3 - 7 for starter and tail tunnels

The contractor has scheduled controlled blasts at the South Shaft on Monday - Friday, August 3 - 7th. The blast on Monday, August 3rd is scheduled for approx 9am. Two blasts expected on Tuesday - one around 10:30am and one in the late afternoon. Multiple blasts per day may continue as needed - usually one in the morning and one late afternoon.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blasts Scheduled for July 29th - 31st

The contractor has scheduled controlled blasts at the South Shaft on Wednesday - Friday, July 29th through 31st. Each blast is scheduled for approximately 1pm, depending on conditions at the site.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blast Scheduled for July 28th in afternoon

The contractor has scheduled a controlled blast at the South Shaft on Tuesday afternoon, July 28th. Approximate time will be 1pm, depending on conditions.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blast Scheduled for Monday, July 27th

The contractor has scheduled a controlled blast at the South Shaft on Monday afternoon, July 27th.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blast Scheduled for Friday, July 24th

The contractor has scheduled a controlled blast at the South Shaft on Friday, July 24th.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blast Scheduled for July 23rd after 1pm

The contractor has scheduled a controlled blast at the South Shaft on Thursday, July 23rd after 1pm.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blast Scheduled for Wednesday, July 22nd

The contractor has scheduled a controlled blast at the South Shaft on Wednesday morning, July 22nd.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

New Site Photos!

Here are some recent photos taken at the South Shaft site!

Both show our muck disposal operations.

With warm summer temperatures and winds, we have added additional dust control measures on weekends to further manage dust in the area.

The Tunnel Boring Machine is here!

On Friday, July 10th, major parts of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) arrived at the South Shaft site from Japan.

The TBM will be used to bore the tunnel between the North and South Shafts. It will be assembled this summer and will begin tunneling in late summer/early fall.

The photograph is of the TBM cutter head.

Controlled Blast Scheduled for Monday, July 20th.

The contractor has scheduled a controlled blast at the South Shaft on Monday, July 20th.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.

All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blasts Scheduled July 13th & 14th

The contractor has scheduled controlled blasts at the South Shaft on Monday, July 13th & Tuesday, July 14th.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blasts Scheduled for July 7th & 8th

The contractor has scheduled a controlled blast at the South Shaft on Wednesday, July 8th in the morning. The contractor may plan a late afternoon controlled blast on Tuesday, July 7th, if necessary.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Good news! The South Shaft has reached a depth of nearly 150 feet and will be ready this summer/early fall for the tunnel boring machine. Blasts at the South Shaft (to form the tunnel) will continue through the summer and will hopefully end in September or October or earlier.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blast Scheduled July 1st at North Shaft

The contractor just announced the need for a controlled blast at the North Shaft on Wednesday, July 1st, at approximately noon.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Tunnel Boring Machine to arrive at South Shaft in early July!

A tunnel boring machine and a crane will arrive at the South Shaft in early to mid-July. The tunnel boring machine will be assembled and stored on site and will be used this fall to bore the tunnel.

Tunnel boring machines are used to excavate tunnels through soil and rock. They can bore through hard rock, sand and almost anything in between.

The additional crane will also remain onsite as needed through construction.

Controlled Blast Scheduled for June 30th or July 1st

Controlled blasting is scheduled to occur at the South Shaft on either Tuesday, June 30th or Wednesday morning, July 1st, depending on conditions.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air quality are below the thresholds and are measured constantly. Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday.

All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

The contractor will observe our national holiday on Friday, July 3rd.

Controlled Blast Scheduled for June 24th or 25th

Controlled blasting will continue at the South Shaft on either Wednesday afternoon, June 24th or Thursday morning, June 25th, depending on site conditions.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air particulates are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday. All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Join us for Coffee at Starbucks on June 24th at 9am!

Please join us for coffee and casual discussion on Wednesday, June 24th, 2009 from 9am to 10am at the Starbucks Coffee in Crystal Springs Village, located at 100 De Anza Blvd, #111, San Mateo.

Chat with the project team, ask questions and learn more about this project.

Controlled Blast Scheduled for Friday, June 19th

Controlled blasting will continue at the South Shaft on Friday, June 19th. Depending on conditions and need, a blast may also take place at the North Shaft.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air particulates are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday. All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

Controlled Blasting Schedule for Week of June 14th

Controlled blasting will continue at the South Shaft on Monday, June 15th. Depending on conditions, a blast may also take place at the North Shaft. Additional blasts may take place through the week. Watch this blog for updates.

All indicators for vibration, noise and air particulates are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday. All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations.

10 MPH Speed Limit for Cars and Bikes on Crystal Springs at Polhemus

This is a friendly reminder that there is a 10 mile per hour speed limit for cars and bikes near the intersection of Crystal Springs Road and Polhemus Road at the North Shaft site. This is for the safety of everyone. It is a small speed limit zone and we ask everyone to use caution in the area and follow the speed limit.

Thank you!

Controlled Blast Scheduled for North Shaft on Thursday, June 11

Controlled blasting is scheduled for Thursday, June 11th at the North Shaft, located on Crystal Springs Road near the intersection of Polhemus Road. Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday. All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations. All indicators for vibration, noise and air particulates are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

New Photos of Controlled Blasting and Muck Processing

Controlled detonations at the North and South Shaft continue in June. The South Shaft has reached approximately 65 feet, the North Shaft 35 feet. Here are some recent photos!

Photo 1 - Crews lowering the blast cover on top of the South Shaft in preparation for a controlled detonation.

















Photo 2 - a controlled detonation. All indicators for vibration, noise and air particulates are below the thresholds and are measured constantly.

Photo 3 - After the detonation, rock and earth (called muck) are removed from the shaft using the crane.

Controlled Blasting to Continue at South Shaft

Controlled blasting of rock will continue at the South Shaft during the week of June 8th, 2009. We will keep you updated on the blasting schedule via this blog.

Controlled Blasting Begins June 9th at North Shaft

Contractor Shank/Balfour Beatty will begin controlled blasting of rock at the North Shaft, located on Crystal Springs Road near the intersection of Polhemus Road.

Controlled blasting will begin as early as Tuesday, June 9th and will continue for several days each week until the contractor reaches necessary depth.

Controlled blasting can take place between 7am and 6pm Monday through Friday. All safety and noise control measures are in effect and the work is performed in accordance with California Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA) and environmental regulations. Neighbors may notice some noise and/or vibration during the controlled blasting.

If you would like to receive regular EMAIL or PHONE notifications of when controlled blasting will take place, please send an email to newcstunnel@sfwater.org or call 650-212-0165 and provide your email, phone, name and address by June 22nd. Blast schedules will also be posted on our Community Blog.

Pre-Construction Surveys along North Shaft

This week the project team notified neighbors closer to the north shaft of the project about pre-construction surveys. If you would like to have your home surveyed in the coming weeks, please contact 650-212-0165.

The controlled blasting that is taking place at the south shaft will move to the north shaft by mid-June.

Neighborhood Coffee: Save the date, Wednesday, June 24, 9 to 10 am. Members of the project team will be at Starbucks Coffee in the Crystal Springs Shopping Center to update you on the progress of the project and answer your questions. We invite you join us for a cup of coffee. Check back for details.

Controlled Blasting at South Shaft Runs Smoothly

Contractor Shank/Balfour Beatty is using controlled blasting to excavate into rock at the South Shaft. The blasting began on Tuesday, May 19th and was closely monitored. The blasting is taking place in accordance with OSHA and environmental regulations and all measures are in place to ensure nearby neighborhoods are not impacted by noise or dust. Blasting in the shaft and tunnel will continue until the contractor is ready to launch the tunnel boring machine.

Controlled blasting may take place at the North Shaft location in mid-June if necessary.

Pre-Construction Surveys

Pre-construction surveys will be performed in the immediate areas of construction. If you have any questions or need any more information about the surveys please call 650-212-0165

A Bird's Eye View (Helicopter)

Here are some aerial photographs taken in Mid-April displaying the south shaft construction area off of Polhemus Road.

Baden and San Pedro Water System Upgrades

JMB Construction, Inc., the Contractor working for the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, will begin mobilization in early May for the water system upgrades at the following locations:

• West Orange Avenue and El Camino Real in South San Francisco
• B Street and Junipero Serra in Daly City

The work will improve the reliability of the regional water system, and reduce vulnerability and damage in the event of a major earthquake. The project will also provide greater operational flexibility to optimize the water delivery system to the City and County of San Francisco.

South San Francisco:
Monday to Friday: 8:00 am-5:00 pm.
Duration: May 2009 –Winter 2011

Daly City:
Monday to Friday: 7:00 am -5:00 pm
Duration: May 2009 – Winter 2010

Construction noise from heavy equipment and truck traffic can be expected and will be monitored. A noise reducing fence will be installed along the western and southern project boundaries, along West Orange and El Camino Real in South San Francisco.

Ground Breaking Event A Success!

Yesterday's New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel Ground Breaking Event was a great success. Check out the news stories from KTVU, KCBS and the SF Chronicle.

KTVU News (Video), 4/17/09 SAN MATEO: Upgrade Of Hetch Hetchy Pipe System Gets Underway

KCBS News (Radio), 4/16/09 New Quake-Proof Pipeline to Deliver H2O to the Bay Area

SF Chronicle (Blog), 4/16/09 Tunnel time

SFPUC, San Mateo County Officials Break Ground on New Tunnel Critical to Protecting Regional Water Supply After Major Earthquake

Excavation of a major new tunnel key to the reliable delivery of water to San Mateo County and San Francisco following a major earthquake began today in San Mateo County.

San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) and San Mateo County Officials joined local neighbors to initiate the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel groundbreaking two days before the 103rd anniversary of the 1906 Great Earthquake and Fire.

To view the press release, click the link below.

Official Press Release

Temporary Traffic Changes in Effect

On Tuesday, April 14th traffic barriers were installed along Crystal Springs Road near Polhemus Road. The new speed limit is 10 mph. Motorists and bicyclists will share the road in this area and and should proceed with caution. Work in preparation of the excavation of the north shaft began on Tuesday, April 14th as well.

Temporary traffic impacts on Crystal Springs Road

Beginning Mid-April (see signs for exact details) a portion of Crystal Springs Road (near Polhemus Road) will be narrowed and vehicular speed limits reduced to 10 MPH. The purpose of this temporary traffic change is to provide safe traffic conditions for both vehicles and cyclists and avoid road closures during upcoming construction. This temporary traffic change will be in effect until approximately July 2010.

Cyclists in the Area?

The Project Team would like to chat with some of the cyclists in the area about a revised traffic proposal for Crystal Springs Road. Let us know if you would like to provide input, or pass this along to a cyclist who may use this road.

Join San Francisco Water on Facebook and Twitter!

March 22nd is U.N. World Water Day and nobody in the world has better water than San Francisco. In celebration of our incredible tap water and U.N. World Water Day, the SFPUC is giving away stainless steel water bottles so you can bring our great tasting tap water with you wherever you go!

To get your own stainless steel bottle, join us on Facebook during the week of March 22nd-29th by becoming a FAN of San Francisco Water on Facebook at http://tinyurl.com/d3zxj5. (Log-in to your personal facebook account to view page).

The San Francisco Water Facebook page will be regularly updated with new photos, interesting videos, drought updates, water and energy conservation tips and more.

The first 1,000 San Francisco residents who become fans of San Francisco Water will be eligible to pick up a stainless steel water bottle after March 29. Pick up details will be announced on Facebook. Please help us spread the word by sending this to your friends and colleagues! Invite your network to join us on Facebook and Twitter.

Follow us on Twitter for more great SFPUC news. http://twitter.com/SFWater

Groundwater Treatment Facility, Where and Why

Groundwater treatment and water containment are important parts of this project. Water containment was anticipated during the project planning process. The EIR describes the South Shaft Area as being used for activities including “construction worker parking, offices in temporary trailers, equipment repair shop(s), materials storage, muck stockpiling, water containment structures, and equipment deliveries.”

As a reminder, SFPUC does not dictate means and methods the contractor should use. In this case, the contractor’s site layout resulted in the current upper level location of the water containment structures. The level of water in the treatment ponds will depend on the rate of inflow into project excavations and the time required for treatment prior to discharge. Of course, they will be removed at the end of the project.

Groundwater Test Site Under Construction

That "swimming-pool" looking area you may see is actually a groundwater testing facility. The groundwater that is collected during construction must be tested before it leaves the site. Here is a closer look at the construction going on this week.

Answers to Your Questions

Click on the New Crystal Springs Bypass Tunnel link, on right, and you'll find responses to questions posed at the January 22 Community Meeting. We'll add more responses as permits are approved and more precise information becomes available. In meantime, submit your questions about the Tunnel project or your regional water system, and we'll respond as we receive them.

View of the construction from your neighbor

Your neighbor, Joe Manske, took this picture last Saturday morning and shared it with us. Thanks, Joe

Construction Update

Inclinometer installation is underway.
Inclinometers measure ground movement, they are being installed to measure the impact of construction activity on the slope. Look for the white drill rigs at the construction site.