Client/Owner: San Elijo Joint Powers Authority 

Size: 14,500 SF 

Completed: 2021 

Location: Cardiff, CA 

RNT completed planning and design for a new headquarters building for the San Elijo Joint Powers Authority (SEJPA).  Our efforts began with a series design meetings with SEJPA staff to develop project goals and objectives, establish operational needs, discuss and document site constraints, prepare programming elements for the buildings, and identify opportunities for creating efficiencies and cost savings. From this the following goals were established: 

• Re-vision the facility as a “Water Campus” to foster research and development of future water purification strategies. 

• Create a secure facility that welcomes the public while keeping the treatment facilities behind secure points of access. 

• Optimize efficiency for the day-to-day water treatment operations. 

• Provide space for future growth and operational needs. 

• Enhance collaboration with the adjacent San Elijo Lagoon Nature Center.  

• Foster educational opportunities with the community engagement.  

The new 14,500 SF two-story, building includes an entry plaza, parking, outdoor lunch patio, a covered service area, landscaping and site security fencing. The facility consolidates agency operations and strengthens community connections by adding a regional multi-use trail, as well as 31 public parking spaces available for the adjacent Nature Center’s use.