TRAFFIC ADVISORY: Emergency Road Closure 22nd Street NW

July 11, 2024

On July 10, 2024, DC Water in coordination with the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) implemented an emergency road closure southbound on 22nd Street NW between Massachusetts Avenue and P Street, due to a defect in a sewer pipeline below the roadway. All southbound lanes will be closed to traffic and no parking allowed while crews work to complete emergency repairs. 

We are investigating the cause of the defect located in a large nine-foot pipe. Once we determine the scope of work necessary to address the issue, we will begin to expedite an emergency repair and provide additional information on the work schedule.  

We regret the inconvenience caused by the road closure, while we make repairs to ensure continued reliability of the sewer system. Rest assured we are working to remedy the situation as quickly and safely as possible.  

Traffic and Cyclist Detour: 

  • Motorists and cyclists are directed to follow detour signage (see map below).
  • From Florida Ave NW use southbound Connecticut Ave to westbound P St NW to 22nd St NW.  
  • From Massachusetts Ave NW use 21st St NW southbound to westbound P St NW.
  • 22nd St NW between Massachusetts Ave NW and P St NW will remain closed for the duration of the work.

Anticipated Schedule:

  • July 10, 2024 – TBD (pending inspection and schedule of work)
  • Work includes inspection of nine-foot sewer pipeline, excavation of roadway, backfill and reconstruction.

People who live or work near the affected locations will notice additional construction equipment and personnel as well as noise associated with construction activities.

For any questions or concerns, please contact our DC Water 24-hour Emergency Command Center at 202-612-3400.  

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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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 13, 2026
Monday, 2:00 PM

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.