In the complex world of water infrastructure and sustainable resource management, finding a reliable engineering partner makes all the difference. WRE Inc has established itself as a trusted name in water resources engineering, bringing over three decades of specialized expertise to challenging projects across California and beyond.
The Foundation of Excellence
Founded in 1989 by Gustavo Arboleda, WRE Inc. began with a clear vision: to provide exceptional civil engineering consulting services exclusively focused on water-related projects. Based in San Francisco, California, this boutique firm has maintained its commitment to specialization, choosing depth over breadth in its service offerings. This focused approach has allowed the company to develop unparalleled expertise in every aspect of water resources engineering.
The decision to remain a small, specialized firm rather than expanding into broader engineering services has proven to be one of the company’s greatest strengths. This strategic choice enables rapid response times and personalized service that larger firms often struggle to provide.
A Mission Rooted in Service and Sustainability
The philosophy driving WRE Inc. centers on delivering comprehensive technical, economic, and policy solutions that address the multifaceted challenges facing water systems today. The company recognizes that effective water resources engineering requires more than just technical know-how—it demands an understanding of economic constraints, regulatory requirements, and long-term sustainability goals.
As a small business, the firm leverages its size as an advantage. Clients receive direct access to highly experienced professionals who bring state-of-the-art knowledge and methodologies to every project. This personalized approach has fostered long-term client relationships, with many organizations returning for repeat engagements based on the quality and reliability of previous work.
Recognized Credentials and Certifications
The firm’s commitment to excellence extends beyond technical capabilities to include important business certifications that reflect its values and market position. WRE Inc holds certification as a Small Business from both the State of California and the US Small Business Administration, demonstrating compliance with standards that support entrepreneurship and economic diversity.
Additionally, the company proudly maintains certification as a Minority-Owned San Francisco Local Business Enterprise. These credentials not only reflect the firm’s heritage but also open doors to projects where diverse supplier participation is valued or required.
Comprehensive Water Engineering Services
Planning and Analysis
The foundation of any successful water project begins with thorough planning and analysis. The engineering team excels in watershed hydrology, conducting detailed studies that reveal how water moves through complex systems. Hydraulic modeling capabilities allow for accurate predictions of system behavior under various conditions, while feasibility studies help clients make informed decisions about potential projects before significant resources are committed.
Design Excellence
When it comes to designing water systems and structures, the firm applies decades of collective experience to create solutions that are both functional and efficient. The design team works closely with clients to ensure that every element serves its intended purpose while meeting all regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
Construction Support
Great designs need proper execution, which is why WRE Inc. provides comprehensive construction management and oversight services. This support ensures that projects are built according to specifications, on schedule, and within budget. The team’s presence during construction phases helps identify and resolve issues before they become costly problems.
Operation and Maintenance
The relationship doesn’t end when construction is complete. The firm develops detailed operation and maintenance plans that help clients maximize the lifespan and performance of their water infrastructure. Ongoing operational support ensures systems continue functioning optimally long after initial installation.
Specialized Services
Dam safety represents one of the company’s most critical service areas. The team develops comprehensive dam safety programs, creates surveillance and monitoring plans, and conducts regular inspections to ensure these vital structures remain secure and functional.
Diverse Areas of Technical Expertise
Drinking Water Systems
Ensuring safe, reliable drinking water delivery requires sophisticated engineering solutions. The firm’s expertise covers every aspect of potable water systems, from source protection to treatment and distribution.
Stormwater Management
As climate patterns shift and urban areas expand, effective stormwater management becomes increasingly critical. The engineering team designs systems that capture, control, and, when possible, beneficially use stormwater rather than allowing it to cause flooding or pollution.
Wastewater Solutions
Proper wastewater treatment and collection protect public health and the environment. The company’s experience spans both municipal and industrial applications, addressing the unique challenges each presents.
Recycled Water Systems
Water reuse represents a key strategy for enhancing supply reliability in water-scarce regions. The firm has extensive experience designing and implementing recycled water systems that safely return treated water to beneficial uses.
Dam Safety and Inspection
Dams are complex structures requiring specialized knowledge for safe operation. The team’s dam safety expertise includes comprehensive inspection protocols, monitoring systems, and emergency preparedness planning.
Flood Mitigation
Protecting communities from flood damage requires careful planning and robust infrastructure. The engineering professionals design flood control systems that balance effectiveness with environmental sensitivity.
Environmental Compliance
Navigating the complex landscape of environmental regulations demands expertise and attention to detail. The firm helps clients achieve and maintain compliance with federal, state, and local requirements.
Resource Recovery and Water Reuse
Modern water management increasingly focuses on circular systems that maximize resource recovery. The company designs solutions that transform what was once considered waste into valuable resources.
Portfolio of Notable Projects
The firm’s reputation has been built on the successful completion of challenging projects for demanding clients. Work on the Madera Canal Capacity Restoration Feasibility Study for the US Bureau of Reclamation demonstrated the team’s ability to tackle large-scale federal projects requiring detailed analysis and innovative thinking.
In San Francisco, the development of the Westside Recycled Water System Operations Plan showcased expertise in water reuse technology and operational planning. The Treasure Island Water System inventory and cross-connection assessment required meticulous attention to detail to ensure drinking water safety.
Dam Safety Programs developed for the SF Public Utilities Commission reflect the firm’s leadership in this specialized field. Work on the San Jose recycled water system upgrades contributed to expanding the city’s sustainable water supply options.
The Calaveras Dam projects, including work on the outlet tower and New Calaveras Dam, represent significant contributions to regional water infrastructure. Support for the Central Valley Project Improvement Act demonstrates the firm’s capability in complex regulatory and policy environments.
Serving Diverse Clients
The client roster spans federal government agencies, including the US Bureau of Reclamation, to municipalities and utilities managing local water systems. Public utilities commissions rely on the firm’s expertise for regulatory and technical matters, while private sector clients appreciate the boutique service model.
The company also serves other engineering firms as a specialized subcontractor, bringing water resources expertise to larger project teams. While the primary geographic focus remains Northern California, projects have extended throughout the United States and internationally when the firm’s unique capabilities are needed.
Competitive Advantages in a Crowded Market
What sets this engineering firm apart in a competitive industry? Exclusive specialization in water-related projects means every team member brings focused expertise rather than divided attention across multiple engineering disciplines.
Three decades of continuous operation since 1989 have built deep technical knowledge that can only come with time and experience. The boutique size enables personalized attention that clients often lose when working with larger firms managing hundreds of simultaneous projects.
A strong reputation for reliability means clients trust the firm to deliver on commitments, meet deadlines, and maintain quality standards. Environmental stewardship and sustainability drive decision-making, ensuring that solutions serve both immediate needs and long-term ecological health.
Market Position and Industry Impact
Within California’s water engineering sector, the company has established itself as a trusted partner for critical water infrastructure projects. The state faces unique water challenges, from periodic droughts to aging infrastructure, and specialized engineering expertise is essential for addressing these issues.
The firm contributes to solutions for groundwater depletion, helping communities develop sustainable extraction and recharge strategies. Climate change adaptation increasingly requires sophisticated stormwater management, an area where the company’s expertise proves invaluable.
By enhancing water supply reliability and operational flexibility, the engineering work supports communities’ ability to thrive despite water scarcity challenges. Each project represents not just technical achievement but contribution to public welfare and environmental protection.
Looking Forward
As water challenges intensify due to climate change, population growth, and aging infrastructure, the need for specialized water resources engineering expertise will only increase. The firm’s three-decade track record positions it well to continue serving as a valuable resource for communities and organizations facing these challenges.
The commitment to staying current with state-of-the-art methodologies ensures the team brings the latest knowledge to every project. Long-term client relationships built on trust and results provide a stable foundation for continued growth and impact.
For organizations seeking a water resources engineering partner that combines technical excellence with personalized service, this San Francisco-based firm offers a compelling option backed by decades of proven performance.
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