About the Project
EBMUD is continuing the Summit Pressure Zone South Pipeline Replacement Project with Phase 2 construction in the Berkeley Hills. This work replaces aging water pipelines that have reached the end of their useful life and improves the reliability of EBMUD's water distribution system for customers throughout the area.
Phase 2 includes construction along portions of Tunnel Road, Hiller Drive, Bridge Road, The Uplands, and within the vicinity of the Summit South Reservoir and Pumping Plant.
Construction is currently underway and is anticipated to continue through 2027.
Why is this work needed?
The existing transmission pipelines serving the Summit Pressure Zone are aging and portions of the system are undersized or difficult to access for maintenance. Replacing these facilities will:
- Improve long-term reliability of the water distribution system.
- Increase operational flexibility during maintenance and emergencies.
- Reduce the potential for future pipeline failures.
- Support continued delivery of safe, reliable drinking water.
What work is included?
Phase 2 includes installation of approximately:
- 1,400 feet of new 24-inch pipeline
- 55 feet of new 12-inch pipeline
- 575 feet of additional 24-inch discharge pipeline
- 30 feet of new 16-inch pipeline
- New valves, pipeline connections, and related infrastructure improvements
Work also includes:
- Temporary traffic control
- Utility connections
- Pavement restoration
- Restoration of disturbed landscaping and work areas
Project elements are located near:
- Summit South Reservoir
- Summit South Pumping Plant
- Tunnel Road
- Hiller Drive
- Bridge Road
- The Uplands
- The Bentley School
- Firestorm Memorial Garden
Construction schedule
Construction began in Spring 2026 and will continue through Winter 2027.
Work will occur in phases to minimize impacts to the surrounding community and maintain access whenever possible.
Because work involves deep excavations, utility crossings, and pipeline connections, construction activities and schedules may change as field conditions are encountered.
Construction hours
Typical construction hours are:
Monday through Friday
7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Some work locations may have more restrictive permitted work hours based on agency requirements.
Coordination with Bentley School
EBMUD recognizes the importance of minimizing impacts to Bentley School, students, families, faculty, and nearby residents.
Throughout construction, EBMUD is working closely with Bentley School to coordinate the timing and sequencing of work activities. Construction schedules are being planned around the school's operational needs whenever feasible to reduce disruptions during student drop-off and pick-up periods, school events, and other critical campus activities.
As construction progresses, EBMUD will continue communicating regularly with school representatives and will adjust work sequencing where practical to help limit impacts to the school community and surrounding neighborhood.
What to expect
During construction, nearby residents may experience:
- Construction noise and vibration.
- Temporary traffic delays.
- Increased construction vehicle activity.
- Temporary parking restrictions in active work areas.
Every effort will be made to reduce construction impacts while maintaining a safe work environment.
Questions?
Contact Community Affairs
Email: construction-south@ebmud.com
Phone: 510-287-2053
Outside of normal business hours, call 1-866-403-2683