Department of Public Works Wins Two APWA Awards

In May, the American Public Works Association (APWA) informed the Department of Public Works that both the Laurelwood Stormwater Pump Station Rehabilitation Project and the Harris-Lass Museum Tank House Restoration & Porch Repair Project won Project of the Year Awards. The Harris Lass Project won under the historical restoration and preservation category while the Laurelwood Stormwater Pump Station Project won under the structures between $2 mil - $5 mil category.

The Harris-Lass Historic Museum and Preserve, which was built in 1865, is located at 1889 Market Street and is the last remaining large farmhouse in the City. This Property is managed by the Historic Preservation Society and funded by the City of Santa Clara. As part of a Historical Grant received from the County of Santa Clara, the City worked on this Project with Historic Architect Craig Mineweaser & Associates to design the Plans and Specifications, restore and repair the tank house, summer kitchen, and exterior porch, and complete accessibility upgrades. Receiving this award is a major achievement that recognizes the Department of Public Works' commitment to preserving historic property and providing expanded and safe universal access for all visitors to learn about and enjoy Santa Clara's history.

The Laurelwood Stormwater Pump Station Rehabilitation Project serves approximately 300 acres of urban watershed. In general, the project consists of, but is not limited to: demolition of the portions of the existing pump station structure and building, construction of new structures and building, demolition of mechanical and electrical equipment, and procuring and installing new mechanical and electrical equipment, new emergency generator and site improvements. The Project required meticulous planning and coordination with numerous stakeholders, which required an abundant amount of effort and resources. In addition, while the Project was in design and construction, the maintenance staff was on high alert for high-risk pump failure since the pumps had exceeded their design life, and pump failure would have had negative impact and consequences for the City. The Project received the Project of the Year Award because of the exceptional project management and planning during the preliminary stage and throughout the design and construction phase that enabled the Project to stay within scope, on budget, and within the strict timeline prior to the winter season. In addition, the project protects the public and properties, during storm events as an unknown and unsung hero unlike other projects that are more prominent in the public eyes.

Receiving these awards is a major achievement for the Department of Public Works and highlights the high-quality projects delivered by staff to contribute to the enhancement of Santa Clara and its community.

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.