DC Water to Begin Canal Rd Nightwork with Single Westbound Lane Closure
As part of DC Water’s slope stabilization project, one westbound lane of Canal Road NW will be closed during overnight work between Foxhall Road (Glover-Archbold Trailhead) and the Georgetown University entrance. The project has entered a new phase involving the removal of loose material from the slope. The lane closure will be in effect Monday through Friday from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
This construction activity is part of the ongoing preparations for the Potomac River Tunnel Project—an essential infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing water quality in the Potomac River. Due to recurring landslides and falling debris along the slope, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) has identified the area as a public safety hazard. Stabilizing the slope is a necessary step to safely build a deep drop shaft that will connect to the tunnel system, helping to significantly reduce wastewater overflows into the river.
Traffic Pattern Changes
One westbound lane will be closed during off-peak hours.
Time: Monday -- Friday from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. and Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Duration: Starting Monday, October 27, 2025, and continuing for approximately three weeks.
Sidewalk Closure
The sidewalk will be closed on the north side of Canal Rd adjacent to the work zone. Detours and shuttle available:
- Pedestrian/cyclist detours via Reservoir Road, C&O Canal Towpath, Capital Crescent Trail, and Glover-Archbold Trail
- Shuttle Service:
- An ADA-accessible shuttle will transport pedestrians and bicyclists between designated stops on Canal Road near the Georgetown University (GU) entrance and on Foxhall Road near the intersection with 44th Street NW.
- Request Canal Road shuttle from the Foxhall or GU stops.
- Call (703) 919-7430 for free ADA-accessible shuttle with bike transport
The slope stabilization supports the Potomac River Tunnel Project, an $819 million, 5.5-mile-long tunnel that will significantly reduce the amount of untreated sewage and stormwater entering the Potomac River. The Project is included in DC Water’s Capital Improvement Program, which invests in infrastructure to protect public health, improve water quality, and enhance service reliability across the District.
For more information
Visit dcwater.com/slope or call (202) 787-4400
