Con J. Franke Electric is proud to play a pivotal role in the Treasure Island Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF) Project, a transformative initiative aimed at modernizing the wastewater treatment infrastructure on Treasure Island and Yerba Buena Island (TI/YBI) in San Francisco, California. The existing wastewater treatment plant, built by the U.S. Navy in 1961, is nearing the end of its operational life, necessitating the construction of a new state-of-the-art facility.
The primary objective of the Treasure Island project is to design and construct a new wastewater treatment plant that enhances wastewater management, water reuse, and recovery capabilities for the island. With a focus on environmental sustainability and community water needs, the project aims to process an average daily influent flow of 1.3 million gallons of water, meeting the future demands of the anticipated population growth and development on Treasure Island.
Con J. Franke Electric’s involvement runs from January 2023 to September 2025 and the project is valued at $157,000,000.
The project encompasses the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant adjacent to the existing facilities on Treasure Island. Key structures needing our commercial electric expertise include the Influent pumping structure, headworks, biological nutrient removal (BNR) basins, membrane bioreactor (MBR) basins, solids handling, raw water pumping structure, storm water pumping structure, and odor control facilities. Additionally, an Administration Building and Maintenance Building provide essential support for operational and maintenance activities. Each facility is crucial to ensuring efficient wastewater treatment and plant operations.
Under the leadership of Project Manager Barry Frain and Assistant Project Manager Nicco Chavez, Con J. Franke Electric has undertaken critical electrical infrastructure work for the project. Led by Foreman Mike Wolff, and collaborating with subcontractors Tesco Controls, Point One, and VFC Lightning Protection, our team has been instrumental in establishing utility service connections, installing switchgear, implementing distributed control system (DCS) controls, and installing and implementing security and communication systems.
Specifically, we are establishing the incoming utility service connection, converting it from 12,470 volts to a 480-volt distribution. We are installing a 480-volt switchgear equipped with transfer switch controls for connecting a 1000 kilo volt-amperes (kVA) standby generator. Along with implementing DCS controls to ensure efficient and reliable system operations, we are installing and integrating security systems, closed-circuit television (CCTV), fire alarm systems, and communication networks.
The Con J. Franke Electric team has navigated challenges inherent to a design-build approach with a project, including evolving design specifications and coordination among multiple trades. Changes in scope and cost are being driven by the need to adapt to new design specifications, address unforeseen challenges, and incorporate improvements identified during the construction phase.
It’s critical to achieve a proper, efficient, and effective design in a timely manner to maintain the construction schedule. The Con J. Franke Electric team continually works to ensure seamless integration of evolving designs while keeping the project on track through meticulous planning, robust communication, and effective collaboration among all parties involved. This iterative process will ensure that the final build meets all functional and quality requirements while accommodating necessary adjustments.
Assistant Foreman Nicco Chavez highlights the effectiveness of weekly pull-plan meetings in fostering remarkable collaboration and coordination among all trades, ensuring a seamless integration for everyone involved. The collective effort and commitment to excellence to work toward the same goal and produce a well-constructed end product stands out as an example of Con J. Franke Electric’s dedication to excellence with every job.
The Treasure Island WRRF Project represents a significant investment in the future of Treasure Island and Yerba Buena Island. By helping to deliver a modern, efficient wastewater treatment facility, Con J. Franke Electric is contributing to the essential sustainable growth and environmental stewardship of a community which is experiencing an influx of new multifamily complexes and residents. This project ensures that these new developments have a reliable system for proper wastewater disposal.
Despite challenges, the project underscores the power of effective teamwork and adaptability in delivering critical infrastructure projects that enhance the quality of life for residents and promote environmental sustainability for future generations.
By utilizing Con J. Franke Electric’s expertise in industrial electrical services, the Treasure Island Wastewater Treatment Plant Project will help improve water quality, protect local ecosystems, and contribute to the overall health and well-being of the Treasure Island residents.
We are proud of our involvement to power progress in this revitalized area.
