Water Main Condition Assessment (CIP 405-723)
Project Status:
In Progress
Project Type:
Capital Project
Last Updated:
09/03/2025 - 3:22pm
Description
This project is identified in the Water Distribution System Master Plan. The 24-inch cement mortar lined and coated steel transmission main is the District’s sole source of water and was constructed in 1962. A condition assessment of the transmission main and other steel mains that comprise the backbone of the District’s water system was performed in 2005. At the time, the District’s steel mains were determined to be in very good condition. It was recommended that the District’s transmission main undergo a new assessment within the 20 year period.
In Fall 2024, the City issued a Request for Proposal and began the consultant selection process. On March 3rd, 2025, City Council awarded the contract to Kayuga Solution, Inc. The estimated completion date is Fall 2025.
For more information regarding this Capital Improvement Project, please contact Claire McWilliams, Assistant Engineer, in the Public Works Department at cmcwilliams@fostercity.org.
Background and History
How old is the transmission main?
The water transmission main was installed in the early 1960s, making it over 50 years old.
What type of pipe do we have?
The transmission main is made up of various materials, with most of the pipe being cement mortar lined and coated steel.
How do we get our water?
EMID gets its water from the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), which receives the water from the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir.
Condition Assessment and Testing
Why is this work being done now?
The current assessment was planned as part of recommendations from the previous condition assessment, performed in 2005. In April 2024, the transmission main experienced a break which was repaired within 48 hours. Although the condition assessment was already planned, the 2024 main break highlighted potential weaknesses in the pipe that have been noted for investigation as part of this effort.
Is this the first time we’ve done this?
This is the District’s second iteration of testing, the first of which was performed in 2005. The results of previous testing indicated that the transmission main was in good condition and recommended that the District perform a reassessment in 20 years.
Will this affect my service?
No service interruptions are anticipated during testing.
Will it affect vehicular traffic or pedestrian access along the route?
Small lane closures may be necessary in the City of San Mateo. Foster City currently has no planned lane closures.
How is the line maintained?
As a critical piece of infrastructure, the transmission main is maintained by the Foster City Public Works Maintenance Division, which performs weekly checks to identify leaks or other maintenance needs.
How is the transmission main protected against corrosion?
The City has placed protection systems on the transmission main, including cathodic protection, which mitigates the corrosive effects of moisture from the soil in Foster City. These systems are routinely checked and maintained by the Public Works Department.
How is the project funded?
This project is part of the District’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP), receiving funding from the Water CIP Fund and revenues from water connection fees.
Who is performing the work?
Kayuga Solution is subcontracting Pure Technologies to perform the work, overseen and managed by the City of Foster City. The agreement between the City and Kayuga Solution was approved by City Council on March 3, 2025, and can be found at this link.
Is Foster City coordinating with neighboring cities (San Mateo)?
Yes, Foster City is working with San Mateo to ensure safe access to the City’s water infrastructure located in the City of San Mateo.
Contact Information
Public Works Department
Engineering Division
610 Foster City Boulevard
Foster City, CA 94404
Phone: (650) 286-3270
Email: publicworks@fostercity.org
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm
Maintenance Division
100 Lincoln Centre Drive
Foster City, CA 94404
Phone: (650) 286-8140
Email: publicworks@fostercity.org
Monday - Thursday, 8 am - 4:30 pm
Friday, 8 am - 3:30 pm
(By appointment only)
