For Immediate Release

March 10, 2010

Contact:  554-6931

PUBLIC WORKS RECOGNIZED WITH PROJECT OF THE YEAR AWARDS

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – The Department of Public Works (DPW) announced today that it has been honored with four awards by the American Public Works Association (APWA) Northern California Chapter, including two Project of the Year Awards for its architectural and engineering accomplishments related to renovations and design work for the Sunnyside Conservatory and the Richmond Branch Library.

DPW received the Project of the Year awards in two categories: Historical Restoration Less than $5 million for the Sunnyside Conservatory, which opened in December 2009; and Historical Restoration $5 to $25 million for the Richmond Branch Library which reopened in May 2009.

“These are two of the many fine projects that DPW’s project management, engineering, architecture and construction management teams produce every year,” said Ed Reiskin, Director of Public Works. “It is our goal not only to provide quality and award-winning projects to San Franciscans, but to deliver them on time and within budget. Projects such as these strengthen our role as the provider of choice to deliver major capital projects.”

Other awards recognized City employees for outstanding achievement, including DPW Engineering Manager Maurice Chee, who was awarded Engineering and Technology Professional Staff of the Year.

DPW oversaw the $3.6 million renovation of the historic Sunnyside Conservatory for the Recreation and Park Department. This 111-year-old landmark was resurrected with precision in order to maintain its original look and design. Old growth recycled lumber was used for the frame and insulated windows were installed to maximize natural sunlight and ventilation. The team made improvements to provide accessibility throughout, installed new landscaping and artwork, upgraded electrical and ventilation systems, and added other modern features to ensure the facility meets current codes and standards.

The Richmond Branch Library is part of a voter approved general obligation bond that financed the renovation of public libraries citywide. This $13.7 million project restored the facility to its original historic integrity from the inside out.

The work included seismic and accessibility improvements, room additions for children and teenagers, program and study rooms, environmental features such as energy efficient lighting and use of materials made out of recycled products, historic preservation, and landscaping additions. DPW worked closely with client department, the San Francisco Public Library, to deliver this extraordinary facility to the residents of San Francisco.

The APWA is an international educational and professional association of public agencies, private sector companies and individuals dedicated to providing high quality public works goods and services. The Northern California Chapter covers 11 counties in northwest California, including San Francisco.

DPW is responsible for the care and maintenance of San Francisco’s streets and much of its infrastructure. The department cleans and resurfaces streets; plants and maintains City street trees; designs, constructs and maintains city-owned facilities; inspects streets and sidewalks; constructs curb ramps; removes graffiti from public property; and partners with the diverse neighborhoods in San Francisco to provide stellar cleaning and greening services.

--end--