Novato utility explores new options for pump station

The North Marin Water District is taking another look at where it could build a new water pump station, a project that has roiled residents in a Novato neighborhood.

The district’s board, which met Tuesday, voted unanimously to study one or two additional sites to construct its new primary pump station designed to replace the nearly 60-year-old one near Lynwood Elementary School.

The vote authorized staff to amend the district’s consulting agreement with Freyer and Laureta Inc. to add $72,000 for services and an $8,000 contingency. The new contract total is $480,000. The duration of work has been extended by six months through the end of the year.

Working with consultants, the district has already identified five sites for possible pump stations. Two sites could be a primary pump station, while the other three could be for secondary pumps.

At the center of the issue is the proposed primary pump station at “Site 2.” The spot is a city-owned greenway that runs along Arroyo San Jose Creek near Ignacio Boulevard and Palmer Drive.

An environmental analysis has concluded that it is the preferred location because it would yield the most benefit. But neighbors say it would be an eyesore in a tree-lined linear park, and fear that noise and vibration from a permanent pump operation could disturb the community.

“I am happy, frankly,” resident Leonard Shaw said of the decision to continue exploring sites.

“This is a massive, multimillion dollar project with more than a year of construction,” said Shaw, who lives on Fairway Drive, near the proposed site. “They ought to measure twice and cut once, and they’re looking for a more appropriate location.”

“This is certainly a positive step,” said Peter Chuck, another resident. “It would be a real shame to introduce a large structure like that in a very nice open space area.”

However, the controversial site is still in the mix. At a meeting in March, the board said it was premature to remove the site from consideration without having confidence that they would find something better. The continued study enables the district officials to find out.

As proposed, the project would involve the construction of a 1,188-square-foot pump station and 3,750 linear feet of new piping to connect the station. If the district approves this option, it would require the Novato City Council to agree to sell the land or grant an easement.

The environmental analysis took a look at a number of different options.

One alternative being considered does not involve Site 2, but envisions a new station with four pumps at the Sunset Parkway median between Cambridge Street and Monte Maria Drive.

Another alternative would create a single pump station at Site 2. Three alternatives propose a primary pump station at Site 2, each with secondary pumps at different remote sites.

Tony Williams, general manager of the water district, said at this point the staff does not know how many proposed options will remain in consideration.

“Depending on the outcome of this additional work, NMWD will complete the necessary CEQA review of additional sites, if identified,” he said, referring to the California Environmental Quality Act. The law compelled the district to complete an initial study, the environmental analysis that identified Site 2 as the preferred location for the primary pump station.

The district serves about 60,000 residents in the greater Novato area as well as about 1,800 residents in areas of western Marin. The Lynwood pump station serves approximately 25% of the district’s customers, staff said.

Williams said the estimated project budget and timeline are to be determined.