For the Hetch Hetchy Project, Public Works oversaw the construction of the O’Shaughnessy Dam and a system of aqueducts that connected it to San Francisco. The system is now operated by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission.

San Francisco Public Works was officially created on January 8, 1900 with the official name of Board of Public Works. Our first task was to organize and regulate street construction and paving projects throughout the city. Our original four bureaus were: Streets, Lighting, Building, and Light & Water Services. Over the next century and nearly two decades our roles have shifted and expanded dramatically.