Channel Force Main Intertie
Overview
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) operates a combined sewer system that collects and treats sewage and stormwater. Our Sewer System Improvement Program (SSIP) is upgrading and modernizing our system to ensure we can continue to protect public health and the environment now and into the future.
The Channel Force Main Intertie Project will increase the reliability, provide operational flexibility, and allow for future inspections and maintenance.
Construction Update Fall 2025
As part of upgrades related to the project, nearby community members can expect lane closure impacts along Cesar Chavez Street between Indiana Street and Pennsylvania Avenue.
When: The project will be conducting heavy construction activities during some weekends in September to November 2025. Weather and/or construction issues may impact the schedule. These activities will be posted in advance to Nextdoor, but if you would like to be added to our email list for construction update notifications please email us at ssip@sfwater.org with "Channel Force Main" in the subject line.
Where: Construction activities will occur near the intersection Cesar Chavez/Indiana Street at the current project site, which will require westbound lane closure on Cesar Chavez Street between Indiana Street & Pennsylvania Avenue. Bike lanes will be impacted with flaggers, see posted signs for additional information.
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Project Background
The existing 66-inch Channel Force Main transports wastewater from the northeastern part of San Francisco to the Treatment Plant.
The Channel Force Main is over a mile long and is almost always in use. This project will construct a new pipeline connection and control systems along the existing force main. When completed, dry-weather sewage flows can bypass a portion of the existing force main.
These upgrades will provide operational flexibility for SFPUC to maintain sewer services. In addition, the completed project would allow SFPUC to inspect and rehabilitate up to a quarter of the existing force main in the future. The project will also install control panels in the sidewalk along Cesar Chavez Street, between Indiana and Pennsylvania streets, and replace existing air valves at two locations on Indiana Street, near the 20th and 25th street intersections.
Project Benefits
- Increase reliability of our City’s critical sewer system
- Provide operational flexibility to key sewer system infrastructure
- Allow for future inspections and maintenance
About the SFPUC and Our Combined Sewer System
We are the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), a not-for-profit public utility providing San Francisco with water, power, and sewer services. Every day we collect and treat both sewage and stormwater for homes and businesses to protect public health and the environment. This project is part of the SFPUC’s Wastewater Capital Improvement Program to upgrade and modernize San Francisco’s combined sewer system for current and future generations.
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What to Expect During Construction
WORK HOURS: Night and weekend work maybe necessary to complete this work. Notification will be sent out in advance.
SEWER SERVICE: In the area will not be interrupted during construction.
PARKING: Parking will not be allowed near construction zones. “No-parking” signs will be posted 72 hours in advance.
TRAFFIC: Partial Lane closures in some area will be necessary to ensure safety of workers and the public. Advance notice and signage will be provided.
MUNI: Service in the area will not be impacted.
ACCESS: Sidewalk detour may be required and alternate pedestrian route with posted signage will be provided. Businesses and residents will maintain access to existing driveways and entrances.
NOISE: Neighbors may hear construction noise periodically. The contractor will abide by the San Francisco Noise Ordinance.
ODORS: If necessary, odor control measures will be in place.
NOTICE: A 30-day and 10-day notice will be distributed prior to construction to residents and businesses within the project area
- Project Materials
