Project: Nature-Based Solution Feasibility Study

Fund 612/Project 07809

FY 2026 - 2035 Capital Improvement Program

Pictured above, are wetlands inhabited by various animal and plant species.

Existing condition of WRRF site and surrounding areas

Source: Adapted from Hayward Regional Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan (SCAPE, 2021)

Existing oxidation ponds site plan

Figure 1-2. Existing oxidation ponds site plan

Project Description

The City of Hayward is seeking to enhance its shoreline by implementing the Hayward Regional Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan. As part of this effort, staff are currently exploring Nature Based Solutions (NBS) at the west end of the Water Resource Recovery Center (WRRF, formerly Water Pollution Control Facility). NBS consists of sustainable planning, design, environmental management and engineering practices that weave natural features or processes into the built environment to promote adaptation and resilience. These solutions use natural features and processes to:

 

• Combat climate change

• Reduce flood risk

• Improve water quality

• Protect coastal property

• Restore and protect wetlands

• Stabilize shorelines

• Reduce urban heat

• Add recreational space

• Provide for wildlife refugia in advance of sea level rise

 

At the west end of the WRRF, the former oxidation ponds provide a potential opportunity to implement NBS. The City is currently exploring the possibility of installing a horizontal levee, constructed wetlands, or both. Each of the benefits above might be realized through implementation of NBS at the WRRF. More specifically, NBS may supplement conventional wastewater treatment processes at the WRRF by further reducing total inorganic nitrogen (TIN) contained in treated effluent prior to discharging to the San Francisco Bay (Bay). NBS could also reduce potential for flooding within the WRRF and adjacent areas due to sea level rise (SLR) and storm surges if improvements to levees along the bayfront are included.

 

The City, in coordination with the San Francisco Estuary Partnership, received a grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to further study this effort and prepare preliminary design documents. The City has selected Sherwood Design Engineers to implement this effort, with work slated to begin in April 2025.

 

For further information on the City’s long-term shoreline planning efforts, see the Hayward Regional Shoreline Adaptation Master Plan.

 

Revenue sources that contribute to this Project include:

  • United States Environmental Protection Agency, San Francisco Water Quality Improvement Fund Grant -$600,000