FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2024
Nancy Crowley
San Francisco Public Utilities Commission
ncrowley@sfwater.org
(628) 629-1748
SFPUC Completes Critical Utility Upgrades Along Vital East-West Transit Line
Agency Joins Other City Departments in Celebrating Return of Sunset’s L Taraval Muni Metro
SAN FRANCISCO – The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) joined the Mayor’s Office, the San Francisco Municipal Transit Agency (SFMTA), San Francisco Public Works, and the San Francisco County Transportation Authority (SFCTA) in celebrating the return of the Sunset District’s core transit line, the L Taraval Muni Metro Light Rail, following a five-year hiatus. During that time, City agencies collaborated on legacy upgrades to the vital east-west corridor, installing new train tracks, and water and sewer pipes, maintaining the continuity of essential services that serve the community.
“We sincerely thank our neighbors for their patience and understanding during construction – an upgrade was long overdue. The SFPUC replaced cast iron water pipes that that were installed in 1908, 116 years ago,” said SFPUC General Manager Dennis Herrera. “Our participation in the L Taraval Improvement Project is just one example of this agency’s commitment to invest in and protect our water, power, and sewer systems. We’re focused on keeping our city resilient, safe, and sustainable for generations to come amid challenges from climate change, population growth, and aging assets.”
While the SFMTA’s transit improvements above ground – such as safer pedestrian crossings, increased accessibility, and improved transit reliability are clearly visible – the critical upgrades that happened below the surface will also provide long-lasting benefits for future generations. They include nearly five miles of new water lines and almost four miles of new sewer lines. The SFPUC also relocated several sections of pipe to facilitate easier maintenance and upkeep, reducing service disruptions. This work will enhance reliability, ensuring taps and toilets flow smoothly for the next 100 years. Additionally, the SFPUC upgraded portions of the Emergency Firefighting Water System on the City’s west side.
The L Taraval light rail transit line resumed service on September 28, 2024, between Embarcadero Station and the San Francisco Zoo. The L Taraval Improvement Project is a collaboration among the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency, San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, San Francisco Public Works and the San Francisco County Transportation Authority.
About the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) is a department of the City and County of San Francisco. We deliver drinking water to 2.7 million people in the San Francisco Bay Area, collect and treat wastewater for the City and County of San Francisco, and meet more than 75% of the electricity demand in San Francisco. Our mission is to provide our customers with high quality, efficient and reliable water, power, and sewer services in a manner that values environmental and community interests, and sustains the resources entrusted to our care. Learn more at www.sfpuc.gov.