Traffic Advisory: Traffic and Parking Restrictions on Unit Block of Rhode Island Avenue NW

February 12, 2019

(Washington, DC) – DC Water is preparing for its Northeast Boundary Tunnel by locating underground utilities at the intersection of Rhode Island Avenue, NW and First Street, NW. The work will consist of drilling holes and small excavations in Rhode Island Avenue, NW to locate possible utility structures.

Work will begin around February 19, 2019, weather permitting, and continue for approximately one week between 9:30 AM and 3:30 PM.  The work will occur on the unit block of Rhode Island Avenue, NW. Parking restrictions on both sides of First Street, NW will be in place between Thomas Street, NW, and Rhode Island Avenue, NW. During work hours, eastbound traffic will not be permitted to make a left turn onto First Street, NW from Rhode Island Avenue. After 3:30 PM, crews will temporarily restore the roadway to allow through travel and normal parking to occur overnight until the next working day. Signs that outline the activities and limits of parking restrictions will be posted.

Important Information

  • Westbound Rhode Island Avenue, NW will be reduced to one lane between North Capitol Street, NW and First Street, NW.
  • Parking restrictions will be in place on the westbound side of the unit block of Rhode Island Avenue, NW between North Capitol Street and First Street, NW.
  • First Street, NW will be closed to northbound traffic between Rhode Island Avenue, NW and Thomas Street, NW.
  • Parking will also be restricted on both sides of First Street, NW between Thomas Street, NW and Rhode Island Avenue, NW.
  • People who live or work near the affected location may notice additional equipment and personnel as well as noise associated with construction activities.
  • Commuters and pedestrians may notice road signs and/or flagging personnel directing them around the work site.

The Northeast Boundary Tunnel (NEBT) is the largest component of the Clean Rivers Project and will start south of RFK Stadium and extend north to Rhode Island Avenue, NE, and west to 6th Street, NW. When complete, the approximately five-mile long tunnel will significantly reduce chronic flooding in areas it serves, as well as reduce the amount of combined sewer overflows into the Anacostia River.
 
For more project information, please contact
NEBT Webpage: dcwater.com/NEBT
24/7 NEBT Hotline: (800) 988-6151

Latest News

Map: The new trail route south of the work zone is a shared path for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists visiting the Washington Canoe Club.

The new trail route south of the work zone is a shared path for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists visiting the Washington Canoe Club.

CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITY NOTIFICATION - DC CLEAN RIVERS - POTOMAC ...

Phase 1 repair photo of tunnel and worker inside after completion

Following a nearly year-long construction effort, DC Water has completed repairs on a nine foot diameter, 140-year old sewer tunnel on 22nd Street Northwest. Construction was done in two phases, with ...

Graphic of Boil Water Advisory Lifted Notice with neighborhoods listed


**Advisory is Lifted as of 9:00 p.m., June 13, 2025** 

All DC Water customers in the impact area under the precautionary boil water advisory can use tap water for all purposes after following the ...

Upcoming Meeting

Board of Directors Meeting

April 24, 2023

Monday 9:00 AM

Announcement

Map: The new trail route south of the work zone is a shared path for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists visiting the Washington Canoe Club.
New Section of Capital Crescent Trail Opens, Potomac River Tunnel Construction moves to next phase

The new trail route south of the work zone is a shared path for pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists visiting the Washington Canoe Club.

Latest Blog Post
A helicopter lowers a drill rig to workers on the Potomac River.
DC Water begins drilling in Potomac River to explore options to rehab underwater sewer line
When one of your major sewer lines runs through the Potomac River, a backhoe and trencher won't do. That's why we've got helicopters carrying a 14-ton drill and workers suspended midair over the Potomac.
Upcoming Meeting
Date
June 24, 2025
Tuesday, 9:30 AM