DC Water is being honored with a national award from the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA). The award recognizes DC Water for its rehabilitation of a critical section of the Potomac Interceptor, a major sewer line that serves the region.

The project was named a 2026 National Design-Build Merit Award winner in the Water/Wastewater category. It was also one of four projects in that category considered for DBIA’s National Design-Build Project Excellence Award. Officially called the Rehabilitation of Potomac Interceptor Manhole 31, the work involved a section of the sewer line in Great Falls, Virginia. DC Water’s team was recognized during an awards ceremony last night.

“This is a testament to the incredible work of DC Water’s team and our design and construction partners to make this project a success,” said Interim CEO and General Manager Matthew T. Brown. “The design-build approach brought everyone to the table to solve complex challenges and deliver the best value for DC Water and the customers we serve.”

This section of the Potomac Interceptor was built in the 1960’s where two major sewer lines meet. It can carry up to 90 million gallons of wastewater a day. Service had to keep running throughout construction.

The project had several challenges. This included high wastewater flows, deep rock, and environmentally sensitive surroundings. Operations, engineering, design, and construction teams worked together to find new solutions. As a result, DC Water avoided bypass pumping and installed about 500 feet of new pipeline.

The Merit Award recognizes the project’s creative approach to complex construction challenges while keeping wastewater service running. It also reflects DC Water’s ongoing commitment to improving the critical infrastructure that serves the region.