Hundreds of Sampling Results Confirm Return to Normal Bacteria Levels in Potomac River

DC Water has outlined its next steps to complete the environmental cleanup and its plan for continued water quality monitoring this summer, as part of the ongoing response to January’s failure in the Potomac Interceptor sewer pipeline. The plan, submitted to the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), is supported by extensive data from hundreds of samples.

Work continues to remove the remaining soil between locks 10 and 12 of the C & O Canal which was used as an emergency bypass while the Potomac Interceptor was repaired. Crews area also removing plants, trees, and shrubs in preparation for the long-term rehabilitation of the Potomac Interceptor.

DC Water has nearly completed construction site preparation for the Piney Branch Tunnel project, including tree removal, and installation of fences, erosion and sediment controls, utilities, and trailers. To complete site setup a section of Piney Branch Parkway will be relocated before starting the shaft and tunnel work.

On or about May 12, 2026, Piney Branch Parkway will be closed between Arkansas Avenue NW and Beach Drive. The closure is anticipated to last twenty-seven days, weather permitting. Detour signs will be in place to notify and direct motorists to alternate routes. The roadway will ...