Pump Station Electrical Upgrades & Generator Installations

Project Status: Current

Upgrades are required to satisfy BC Hydro current standards, work also includes the installation of new back up generators, to provide permanent backup power capabilities at Harris and Dryden drainage pump stations and Central Sanitary Lift Station.

Construction: May to November 25, 2026.

Budget:
$2.075 million
Description:

Upgrades are required to satisfy BC Hydro current standards, work also includes the installation of new back up generators. In addition, the project scope also includes electrical upgrades and the replacement of an undersized generator at Central Sanitary Lift Station. 

Background/Project Information:

The project focus is on the critical drainage pump stations (Harris and Dryden) that currently do not have permanent backup power capabilities and replace an undersized generator at Central Sanitary Lift Station. Long lead time generators were pre-purchased by the District of Squamish, this strategy of Owner supplied generators improves the overall project schedule. 


Project rational: These stations rely on either mobile standby generators that can operate a small subset of the pumps at the stations, or portable backup diesel pumps which must be quickly deployed if the stations experience power outages, during wet weather events when the stations must be running. Central Sewage Lift Station requires a generator upgrade to accommodate the increased pumping load at the station. Additionally, the existing service entrance equipment at these sites does not currently meet BC Hydro’s standards and requires upgrades.

Project duration:

  • January 2024 to April 2026 
    • Design, site investigation, permitting and approvals, generator prepurchase and construction tendering and contract award.
  • May to November 2026
    •  Construction period. 
Impacts:

Construction Hours:

  • Construction hours will be 7 am to 7 pm Monday to Saturday
  • Residents should expect increased noise levels and short-term traffic disruptions while work is underway

Traffic & Access:

  • At times temporary single lane alternating traffic near pump station sites may be required
  • Road access will be always maintained for local residents and emergency services
  • Pedestrian access to and along the Squamish River Dyke at the project sites (Dryden Lift Station located 160m south of the Watershed Grill, and Harris Pump Station located 140 north of the railway bridge beside the Wastewater Treatment Plant) may at times be limited or restricted
  • Possibility of short duration full closures of Dyke public access at Dryden and Harris Lift Stations, during crane lifts, generator placement and civil work

Noise, Dust & Vibration:

  • Daytime construction noise from excavation, electrical work, and generator placement
  • Dust and low-level vibration at times during excavation and civil works
  • Compliance with District noise bylaws

Utility & Service Impacts:

  • Temporary wastewater service interruptions are not expected
  • Any service interruptions will be communicated 48hours in advance

Site Safety:

  • Increased presence of heavy equipment beside and on top of the Squamish River Dike
  • Temporary fencing and construction signage around work zones

Environmental Considerations:

  • Erosion control, spill prevention, and environmental monitoring will be in place during construction
  • Archaeological protection measures and a Chance Find Policy will be in place
Contact:

Jamie McCarthy 
Project Manager – Capital Projects
604-389-8027 

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