At Con J. Franke Electric, we specialize in delivering high-quality, cost-effective electrical services for complex industrial projects across Northern California and the Greater Bay Area. We are excited to provide a major update on our pivotal role in the Treasure Island Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF), a transformative, $157 million initiative that is replacing a critical, aging plant built in 1961 by the U.S. Navy.
Our dedicated team—under the consistent leadership of Project Manager Barry Frain, Commissioning Engineer Joel Perez, and Foreman Mike Wolff—is driving hard toward the final commissioning. We are focused on completing the sophisticated power and control infrastructure that will allow this new, state-of-the-art facility to process 1.3 million gallons of water daily, supporting the sustainable growth on Treasure Island and Yerba Buena Island (TI/YBI).
Energizing the Core of the Plant for Startup
We are pleased to share that the initial three steps of the wastewater treatment process are rapidly achieving operational readiness, a testament to our team's efficient project management and technical expertise.
Update 1: The Influent Pump Station
This is the crucial entry point for all wastewater. The pump motors are wired to their disconnects and ready for startup. Critically, we are finalizing the installation of level sensors and floats. These devices are the intelligence of the system, sending precise signals to the Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) to control pump speeds. This ensures reliable, energy-efficient flow into the facility. The control wiring is close to being completely wired and ready for commissioning.
Update 2: The Headworks
This section performs the vital first separation step. The first step in processing wastewater is running through a set of rotary drum screens to separate solids from liquid. We have completed all power and controls for these screens, and the system is complete and ready for startup.
Update 3: The Biological Nutrient Removal (BNR) Basins
After separating the liquid from the solids, the wastewater enters the Biological Nutrient Removal System. This is where the magic happens: tiny organisms clean the water by eating away at invisible pollutants. We are prioritizing the completion of power and controls for this environmentally critical system. BNR is approaching completion of power and controls for startup.
Wiring Reliability into Every System
Our expertise at Con J. Franke Electric extends far beyond these three areas. We have established the entire electrical backbone of the plant across multiple key structures, including the Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) basins, solids handling, and the Administration Building.
This involved establishing the incoming utility service connection and converting it from 12,470 volts down to a 480-volt distribution. We also installed a 480-volt switchgear equipped with transfer switch controls for connecting a 1000 kVA standby generator, which guarantees the plant remains operational even during a power outage. Furthermore, we are implementing the sophisticated Distributed Control System (DCS) controls that serve as the "brain" of the entire plant, alongside integrating essential safety and communication networks like CCTV, fire alarm systems, and communication networks.
Teamwork and Adaptability Pave the Way
As a large-scale design-build project, success hinges on seamless coordination. Commissioning Engineer Joel Perez has previously highlighted how our weekly pull-plan meetings foster "remarkable collaboration" with subcontractors like Tesco Controls, Point One, and VFC Lightning Protection. This teamwork allows us to navigate challenges, adapt to evolving design specifications, and maintain the aggressive construction schedule.
By utilizing Con J. Franke Electric’s industrial electrical expertise, we are delivering a modern, resilient facility that contributes to sustainable growth and environmental stewardship for the residents of Treasure Island and Yerba Buena Island. We are proud to be powering progress in this revitalized area and look forward to sharing the final commissioning update soon!
