Overview
EBMUD's contractor is in the process of replacing the Palo Seco pumping plant and Madrone regulator, which have reached the end of their useful lives. The project includes mechanical and electrical work, pipeline installation, paving and improvements at the pumping plant sites.
Schedule
Typical work hours are Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The project is currently anticipated to be completed in early fall 2027 weather permitting. All construction schedules are tentative and subject to change.
What to expect
Neighbors may notice construction vehicles and equipment, noise, vibration and dust.
Traffic control and detour routes are determined in coordination with and approved by the City of Oakland based on roadway and safety requirements. Temporary lane or street restrictions may cause delays near the work. Access to intersecting streets may also be affected as construction progresses. Pipeline work is planned along:
- Robinson Drive between Brunell Drive and Butters Drive
- Butters Drive between Robinson Drive and Crestmont Drive
- Crestmont Drive between Butters Drive and Skyline Boulevard
We understand that the extended construction and traffic impacts on Robinson Drive have been frustrating and disruptive. We are doing all we can to complete this project safely and quickly. This is an active construction site. For everyone's safety, please do not enter active work areas or EBMUD facilities, where hazards may be present. Please use the contact information listed below for any questions or concerns so we can respond directly.
Water service interruption
Some customers will experience temporary water service interruptions during pipeline connections. Crews will notify you, in person or with a door hanger, regarding any planned water service interruption to your property. After a service interruption, there may be air in the pipes that may loosen particles in your home plumbing. Close your toilet water supply valves, and then run water from your front hose bib, bathtub and/or cold water faucets for 1-3 minutes. This will dispel any air or loosened particles from your household pipes. If any water quality issues remain after flushing, please call us.
If you have an access or mobility need, contact Community Affairs so we can discuss it with the project team.
Flushing for water quality
After pipe installations or repairs, EBMUD crews may flush water lines with large volumes of water to ensure water is clean and safe. When crews flush pipes, customers may see water discharged into tanks or storm drains. Flushing is a critical step to keep your water safe by removing sediment and discolored water following a repair or new pipe install. EBMUD values conservation and water reuse, especially during drought, and works to reuse flushed water whenever possible. Learn more.
Paving
Crews will place temporary pavement as pipeline work progresses to maintain a usable road surface. Final paving will follow completion of pipeline work and may take 90 days or longer.
What is this project
The Palo Seco project includes construction of a new pumping plant, installation of new pipelines, and upgrades to the existing EBMUD facility. These upgrades will improve water service and fire flow in the Woodminster Community and throughout the Oakland Hills. Connecting the new pipelines to the existing system beneath Robinson Drive requires several separate connections. The narrow hillside roadway and existing underground utilities add complexity. Crews must locate utilities, excavate to confirm field conditions, and in some cases take measurements for specially fabricated pipe before returning to complete the connection. As a result, crews may need to work in the same area more than once.
Thank you for your patience as we complete these vital improvements to your water system.
Community Benefit
Replacing these aging facilities will improve the long-term reliability of the water distribution system, improve fire flow, give EBMUD more flexibility during maintenance and emergencies, and support continued delivery of safe, reliable drinking water. Pipeline improvements will also reduce the potential for future pipe failures.
Related projects
- Madrone–Palo Seco Pumping Plant Pipeline Replacement
- Pipeline connection to the street water distribution system: October 2026
- Remaining pumping plant work anticipated for completion: Spring 2027
- Madrone Reservoir demolition - Completed
Questions
Contact EBMUD Community Affairs with project questions or access concerns:
Email: construction-south@ebmud.com
Phone: 510-287-0544
After-hours assistance: 1-866-403-2683