The RESCU Program
The RESCU Program describes eleven projects which constitute full replacement and rehabilitation of SVCW’s conveyance system. RESCU includes the Gravity Pipeline, Front of Plant, Pump Stations, and Belmont Force Main projects. The Front of Plant includes six of the eleven projects. The Conveyance System Improvements Environmental Impact Report completed and adopted by the SVCW Commission in April 2017 covers work to be done under all the RESCU Program projects.
RESCU and its subsidiary projects are all considered ‘Essential Infrastructure’ and continue to make progress. During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, our construction crews continue to operate with additional safety measures in place to keep them safe and healthy. Every day, our crew members are checked for COVID-19 symptoms, including temperature, prior to entering a worksite. The crews practice social distancing, frequent hand washing, and wear face coverings. We also disinfect commonly used areas daily to prevent the spread of the virus. Safety is our top priority, and operating during this pandemic doesn’t change that priority.
RESCU Blurb
An update by Teresa Herrera, SVCW Manager
February 2021
The use of Progressive Design-Build (PDB) delivery methods for large, complex capital projects has gained significant traction over the past few years since the California legislature granted use of this delivery method in 2015. It allows for a project to be awarded based on “best value” versus only “low bid”. For anyone in the project delivery world, “low bid” rarely translates to “best value”.
In early 2016, SVCW staff recommended this as an option for delivering the RESCU program projects. SVCW opted to implement this method for a myriad of reasons, not the least of which was to lock in costs early in project design so that sufficient financial planning could be completed. It was a large undertaking, as this was the first time that the PDB method was used at SVCW and there weren’t many examples of its use in the wastewater industry, nor the tunneling industry.
Aside from cost certainty, a compelling reason to use Progressive Design-Build is what I describe as “having the best minds around the table” to develop and implement a project. This especially comes into play when projects are complex in nature. Using the expertise of engineering designers, construction contractors, and project and construction managers all working towards the same goal of delivering the best possible project is a recipe for success.
I can look back on our progress thus far and say that our decision to use PDB for the RESCU projects was one of the best decisions we’ve made!
LATEST UPDATES
Gravity Pipeline Feburary 2021
Tunneling progress of Salus’ second drive is progressing consistently, monitored by Barnard-Bessac Joint Venture (BBJV). This month, BBJV started preparations
Front of Plant February 2021
In February, SVCW’s contractor partner Shea Parsons Joint Venture (SPJV) is proceeding with architectural work at the Headworks Facility. This
Pump Station Improvements February 2021
This month SPJV continues to carry out preliminary work near the San Carlos Pump Station, and is in the process
Pump Station Improvements January 2021
SPJV continues to carry out preliminary work near the San Carlos Pump Station, which includes moving into their laydown areas.