DC Water Cares: Support Available for Customers Impacted by Federal Government Shutdown

October 31, 2025
DC Water Cares Logo

In response to the ongoing federal government shutdown, DC Water is reaffirming its commitment to supporting customers facing financial hardship. The utility recognizes the stress and uncertainty this situation places on federal employees, contractors, and others whose paychecks may be delayed through no fault of their own.

Through its DC Water Cares suite of customer assistance programs, DC Water offers a range of options to help reduce monthly water and sewer costs for residential customers. These programs include:

  • Customer Assistance Program (CAP) tiers — CAP+, CAP1, CAP2, and CAP3 — which provide discounts on water, sewer, and the Clean Rivers Impervious Area Charge (CRIAC).
  • SPLASH (Serving People Lending a Supporting Hand) — a one-time emergency assistance program designed to help prevent service disruption for households experiencing temporary or ongoing financial hardship.
  • Flexible Payment Plans - No late fees if you stick to the plan.

Those who are able to assist may also donate to the SPLASH program. All financial contributions – dollar for dollar – go directly to helping a customer in need.  You can donate directly online at dcwater.com/splash.

“We recognize that many of you are doing everything you can to keep your household going during this time,” said DC Water CEO and General Manager David L. Gadis. “That’s why we’re committed to being a partner - not an obstacle - in helping you maintain vital service and find relief options. You’ve served our community; we’re here to serve you.”

DC Water encourages any customer affected by the shutdown to reach out immediately if you’re worried about maintaining your water and sewer service. You don’t have to wait until you receive a disconnection notice. Our team is ready to help explore available assistance options and all inquiries are handled confidentially and with care.

Customers can contact DC Water through the following channels:

DC Water remains committed to serving the community and ensuring that no customer faces service disruption alone. We thank all customers for their continued trust and partnership.

Latest News

Pennyfield Lock Potomac Interceptor bypass pipeline running next to C & O Canal with equipment

There is no active spill or overflow. Work to strengthen the pipe to begin soon.

Today, DC Water completed construction on a temporary bypass system as part of sewer repairs on the Potomac Interceptor near Pennyfield Lock in Potomac, Maryland. Crews turned on the pumps and successfully tested the system. With the bypass now ready, it will allow us to begin the emergency repairs inside the pipe by carrying the wastewater around the repair area.

DC Water Officials with NPS and ANC commissioners doing ceremonial groundbreaking

Today, DC Water broke ground on the Piney Branch Tunnel, the final major tunnel in our Clean Rivers Project. This work will help keep sewage and trash out of local waterways and make Rock Creek, the Potomac River, and the Chesapeake Bay cleaner for our community.

When we finish the Piney Branch Tunnel, it will hold at least 4.2 million gallons of rainwater and wastewater during heavy storms. Instead of overflowing into Piney Branch, that water will go to the Blue Plains Water Resource Recovery Facility, where it will be treated.

Photo of the drop shaft looking from above down into the bottom

Starting the week of July 13, 2026, people who live, work or travel near the Canal Road NW entrance to Georgetown University may hear controlled blasting. This work is part of our Potomac River Tunnel Project.

When blasting happens, neighbors may hear a brief noise or feel light shaking. Drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians on Canal Road NW may also be stopped for a few minutes while we safely complete each blast.

Upcoming Meeting

Board of Directors Meeting

April 24, 2023

Monday 9:00 AM

Announcement

DC Water Officials with NPS and ANC commissioners doing ceremonial groundbreaking
DC Water Breaks Ground on Piney Branch Tunnel, Final Phase of DC Clean Rivers Project

Today, DC Water broke ground on the Piney Branch Tunnel, the final major tunnel in our Clean Rivers Project. This work will help keep sewage and trash out of local waterways and make Rock Creek, the Potomac River, and the Chesapeake Bay cleaner for our community.

When we finish the Piney Branch Tunnel, it will hold at least 4.2 million gallons of rainwater and wastewater during heavy storms. Instead of overflowing into Piney Branch, that water will go to the Blue Plains Water Resource Recovery Facility, where it will be treated.

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Five photos from the American Water Works Association (AWWA) ACE26 conference featuring panel discussions, technical presentations, networking, and attendees posing at the ACE26 display.
ACE26 Highlights: How DC Water Advanced the Conversation on Water
More than 80 DC Water employees joined thousands of water professionals in Washington, D.C., sharing expertise, building partnerships and advancing conversations that will help shape the future of water.
Upcoming Meeting
Date
July 16, 2026
Thursday, 9:30 AM

Upcoming Events

Jul 23
Jul 25

Customer Service Center Announcement

Payment Plan Incentive: provides a credit back of 50% of the last 3 payments made. Eligible participants are residential customers who have had an outstanding balance for 60 days or greater and with an outstanding balance of $500 or more.