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 the New Headworks Project Does
The New Headworks Facility Project is expected to reach substantial completion by the end of this year, and final completion in early 2025. 80% of San Francisco’s wastewater is treated at the Southeast Treatment Plant, and the SFPUC is investing $3 billion to transform the plant into a modern resource recovery center that fits in better with the surrounding neighborhood. The Headworks Facility removes trash and debris at the beginning of the treatment process. Wastewater then flows through tanks that allows grit, like sand, to settle.
When complete, the new Headworks facility will better protect downstream equipment to make the entire system more efficient. Being a good neighbor means maximizing control of odors! The Southeast Treatment Plant was built in 1952 and was not originally designed to control odors. Click on the video (see right) to learn more about how this project enhances odor control.
The New Headworks Project also includes a newly completed art wall titled Whorl Whirl: Our Circular Nature by the noted artist Norie Sato which draws inspiration from resource recovery processes and infrastructure at the Southeast Treatment Plant. The 335-feet long and 35-feet high artwork installation runs along the north perimeter of the New Headworks facility on Evans Avenue between Rankin and Quint streets. Click on the picture and read more about the artist (see right for both) to learn more.
Project Benefits
This project will provide significant operational 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; after hours call 3-1-1
Email: ssip@sfwater.org
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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
New Mural by Afatasi The Artist Showcases Her Community’s Experience, History, and Cultural Identity
Biosolids Facilities Project Page
The New Headworks Project is being constructed at the Southeast Treatment Plant along with the Biosolids Digester Facilities Project. To learn more visit, sfpuc.gov/digesters.
Combined, both projects will upgrade and modernize these aging facilities with more reliable, efficient, and modern technologies and facilities.