From the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission:

More than a century after sewer and water pipes were first installed beneath Geary Boulevard, the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) began a major infrastructure upgrade in January 2025. The project replaced aging sewer and water pipes along Geary Boulevard from Stanyan Street to 32nd Avenue. Less than two years later, the underground utility work is complete, helping ensure these essential systems can continue serving the Richmond District for generations to come.

Major Improvements Beneath Geary Boulevard

The Geary Boulevard Sewer and Water Improvements Phase 2 project was a major undertaking. It included installing more than 6.7 miles of new water pipes, including a 16-inch transmission main, and two 8-inch distribution mains. Approximately 1.4 miles of sewer pipes were also replaced or rehabilitated, and new sewer structures were constructed.

These improvements strengthened the long-term performance of both utility systems. Sewer upgrades increased the amount of wastewater the system can handle, helping reduce the risk of flooding and sewer backups in homes and businesses. New water mains help provide a more reliable water supply with consistent pressure and flow.

Crews also installed approximately 1.5 miles of underground fiber-optic conduit to support future traffic signal improvements that will help 38 Geary buses move more efficiently. Streets and sidewalks were also restored across the 35-block project area.

Supporting Residents and Businesses Through Construction

Throughout this extensive project, the SFPUC worked to minimize disruptions to the community and complete construction as efficiently as possible.

The contractor organized construction so crews could work in different sections of the project at the same time. This allowed more work to be completed each day and helped the project finish ahead of schedule.

SFPUC crews also worked evenings to connect businesses to the new water mains. By completing most of these connections after business hours, crews helped limit disruptions to water service during the workday.

During construction, the SFPUC provided ways for residents and businesses to ask questions and share concerns. Staff responded to community feedback and whenever possible adjusted construction activities to reduce disruptions.

The project team also formed a Small Business Working Group to work directly with Geary merchants. Project staff provided weekly construction updates and held monthly meetings where business owners could raise concerns and discuss challenges. The SFPUC also partnered with merchants to promote the Geary Boulevard commercial area, developing street pole banners, tote bags, and a social media video campaign to encourage people to visit local businesses during construction.

What’s Next for Geary Boulevard

With underground water and sewer improvements complete, the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) will begin its work to improve transit and street safety above ground. Once that work is finished, crews will repave the full width of Geary Boulevard.

The SFPUC thanks residents, merchants, and everyone who uses Geary Boulevard for their patience during these important improvements. We also appreciate the community’s understanding as the next phase of construction gets underway. When all the work is complete, Geary Boulevard will have upgraded water and sewer systems below ground, along with transit and safety improvements at street level.