Prepare for Detours: Read Our Crystal Springs Pipeline Replacement Guide

As an estimated 15 months of pipeline work gets underway along El Camino Real, Burlingame residents can expect some changes in their daily driving routines. To help our readers through the construction process, we’re bringing you a guide of what to expect, as well as some information on how this project benefits you.

The Crystal Springs Pipeline Number 2 Replacement project spans 3.2 miles from Bellevue Avenue to Meadow Glen Avenue in Millbrae, said Crystal Springs project manager Susan Hou.

The pipeline repair process begins with an architectural investigation, external and internal survey of the pipes and potholing. San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) officials expect that preliminary work will be done by May.

Then, in either late May or early June, the pipeline work will begin, necessitating the closure of one or two lanes of El Camino Real. Hou said one lane in each direction with be open at all times, and warning signs signifying lane closures will be placed well in advance.

Work on the pipelines will take place from 7 a.m. until 2 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturdays. No Sunday or night work is anticipated.

In total, there are 11 work pits along the 3.2 mile stretch of El Camino Real involved in the project. Seven of those pits are in Burlingame, but only two will be worked on at any given time.

The Crystal Springs project is part of a larger upgrade to the Hetch Hetchy water system.

The Hetch Hetchy system is the main source of water in the Bay Area and encompasses 280 miles of pipeline, beginning in Yosemite National Park.

“[It] provides about 85 percent of the water delivered through the San Francisco regional water system,” said Hou. “One can understand why Hetch Hetchy is so critical.”

The Crystal Springs segment of pipeline was built in 1900, leaving it vulnerable to future earthquakes. The water system as a whole crosses three of the country’s most active faults.

“Recent investigations reveal that a significant earthquake…will cause a catastrophic system failure,” Hou said. “The goal of this project is to replace the seismic vulnerable portions…along El Camino Real.”

In the event of an earthquake, residents could be without water for up to two months if the system remains as is, but Hou said the SFPUC has 86 upgrade projects covering seven counties planned over the next four years.

Residents wanting more information can visit http://www.sfwater.org/cspl2 to sign up for email updates. Information is also posted on the Burlingame city website. Additionally, a 24-hour answering service has been set up for any questions at 866-973-1476.

Two open houses are planned to address community members’ questions and concerns regarding the project. One is planned for Thursday, April 14 at 8:30 p.m. at Peter’s Café in Millbrae and the other for Tuesday, April 19 at 5 p.m. at the Burlingame Public Library.