DC Water will temporarily close part of the C & O Canal National Historical Park at Pennyfield Lock (Lock 22) to make critical repairs to the Potomac Interceptor sewer line. The Montgomery Parks Pennyfield Lock Neighborhood Conservation Area and boat ramp will also be closed. The closure is expected to begin as early as Friday, November 13 and may remain in effect through Sunday, November 22.

During this time, the public will not be able to enter or exit the C & O Canal towpath from Lock 22 or the Neighborhood Conservation Area.

Why Is the Area Closing?

DC Water is repairing about 1,700 feet of this large, 60-inch-diameter section of the Potomac Interceptor. Crews will use a method called sliplining. New pipe sections will be installed inside the existing pipe. This creates a new, stronger pipe without having to dig up and replace the existing sewer line.

The work requires heavy construction equipment and moving very large sections of pipe throughout the site. For everyone’s safety public access to the work area must be restricted. Please obey all closure signs and barriers. Visitors should use alternate locations to access the towpath and plan accordingly.

Earlier this year, DC Water completed inspection of all 54 miles of the Potomac Interceptor. Those inspections identified severe deterioration in this section of pipe. This includes significant corrosion and exposed steel rebar, requiring immediate repairs.

Emergency repairs began in June as part of DC Water's ongoing efforts to keep critical wastewater infrastructure operating reliably. The work also helps protect the park, the Potomac River, and the communities that depend on the sewer line. We recognize this closure is an inconvenience, especially for people who enjoy the park and the river.

DC Water is committed to completing the work as safely and efficiently as possible and appreciates the public's patience and understanding.

What to Expect

When: As early as Friday, November 13, through as late as Sunday, November 22, depending on the weather.

Closed areas: Pennyfield Lock (Lock 22), the Pennyfield Lock Neighborhood Conservation Area and boat ramp, and the parking lots at Lock 22 and near the boat ramp.

Towpath: The C & O Canal towpath will stay open, but you will not be able to reach it through Pennyfield Lock or the Neighborhood Conservation Area.

Pennyfield Lock Road: Open to residents and local traffic only, to make room for construction vehicles and equipment.

Alternate access: Use Violet’s Lock (Lock 23) or Swains Lock (Lock 21) to reach the towpath and the river.

For more information, visit dcwater.com/potomacinterceptor.