April 28, 2025 Update

MWSD Board Action on May 1st

On May 1st, the MWSD Board will consider continuing this District Emergency as declared at our March 27th Board meeting. A District Emergency allows for faster contracting and response to the emerging issues in the Seal Cove area. This emergency also authorizes the District to seek state and federal financial assistance.

We continue our investigations to recommend safe solutions for Seal Cove water and sewer infrastructure.

MWSD is committed to providing continued updates directly to our Seal Cove customers, and during MWSD Board Meetings.

What is the latest MWSD activity in Seal Cove?

Staff have continued active response in the Seal Cove area. This includes responding to and repairing additional leaks of water and sewer infrastructure, as well as continuing evaluation of safe solutions to maintain water and sewer services. Some key updates:

• Everyone remains connected and served by both water and sewer systems.
• On San Lucas Avenue, we have abandoned both our water and sewer mains west of the Del Mar Avenue intersection. We are no longer utilizing these pipes for any water or sewage flows.
• The water main in San Lucas was reconfigured east of the Del Mar intersection. The main now crosses San Lucas, keeps the fire hydrant at the intersection operational, and connects into the water main in Del Mar Avenue.
• We have continued to meet and coordinate with both Coastside Fire Protection District and San Mateo County as we assess our infrastructure in the affected area.
• Our crews have seen increased land movement most recently on La Grande Avenue.
• Water and sewer mains on the western ends of Madrone, La Grande and Los Banos Avenues, as well as the Park Street and Beach Street intersection, are being examined for safer configurations. This may include above ground pipelines, and relocation of water meters for private properties. Above ground pipelines provide increased flexibility and quick visual access, ensuring leaks are less frequent and caught quickly.

Please Remember:

• Check and properly maintain your sewer lateral, shared sewer laterals, sewer sump and grinder pumps.
• Leaks on your private water and sewer laterals may be repaired by a qualified plumber.
• Sewer pump repairs should be completed by the service company (Signa Mechanical) listed on the electrical panels of the pumps.

History of Seal Cove Land Movement

Since the 1960’s there have been numerous, geotechnical studies of the Seal Cove area by San Mateo County, the land use authority for this area.

Study started in the 1960’s, when the U.S. Geological Survey slowed Seal Cove development due to active landsliding and accelerated coastal erosion. In 1971 and 1984 San Mateo County studies confirmed continued instability and geologic hazards. Structural damage due to landslide activity has been documented throughout this time.

San Mateo County

San Mateo County’s Planning and Building Department establishes land use policies and development regulations that protect public health and safety. This includes oversight of County streets and structures on private property.

Emergency Contact Numbers

Water Emergencies: Call MWSD at (650) 728-3545
Sewer Emergencies: Call SAM at (650) 726-0124
Dial 911 for life-threatening and safety