Salinas Dam Booster Pump Station

The Salinas Dam Booster Pump Station is the primary source of water for the City of San Luis Obispo. The booster pump station, originally constructed in the 1940s, pumps water from Santa Margarita Lake up and over the Cuesta Grade and down into the City. A 4,400-gallon steel surge tank controls surges in the system with potential to cause damage to the downstream supply line. Regular up-keep and maintenance kept the facility in relatively good working condition; nevertheless, due to the aging equipment and risk of failure, Cannon was selected to provide design and construction engineering services to upgrade the facility.

The scope of work included a preliminary design and report; review and verification of existing facilities; surge analysis report; and preparation of plans, specifications, and cost estimates. Design services included survey of existing site conditions, coordination with utility providers, electrical design, and site and mechanical design. Bid support services included responding to RFIs; review of contractor submittals; identification of milestone inspections; attending key construction meetings; preparation of record drawings; and technical assistance to answer contractor and San Luis Obispo County Flood Control and Water Conservation District questions. The structural inspection and tank coatings investigation confirmed significant tuberculation and metal loss on the interior of the tank. Because rehabilitation was not an option, the project incorporated design of a new 4,000-gallon steel surge tank.