DC Water and its contractor are working to clean out the damaged section of the Potomac Interceptor, a sanitary sewer line which overflowed January 19, along Clara Barton Parkway and the 495 interchange and into the C & O Canal National Historical Park. Below is an update on the work being done and progress to date. 

Potomac Interceptor Update
Sunday, February 1, 2026

Containment

• Overflow from the pipe remains contained for now.
• This marks the fourth straight day with no overflows from the pipe.
• The risk of overflow remains minimal with the bypass pumping operations, ongoing cleaning activities, and some existing flow that is safely moving through the collapse site within the sewer line. 

Excavation & Cleaning

• Excavation and site preparation to allow access for cleaning efforts are complete.
• Cleaning equipment has been mobilized.
• Crews using truck-mounted, high powered vacuum equipment have begun work to clean out debris and obstructions blocking the pipe.
• The equipment is being deployed from an access point in the pipe downstream from the damage.
• The cleaning effort is slowly working toward the blockage in the collapsed section. 
• This is to prevent an uncontrolled release of large amounts of material moving downstream with the potential to block flow again. 
• Cleaning is expected to continue for a few days.
• Once cleaning is complete, the goal is to isolate the pipe and restore full flow in the sewer line to eliminate the risk of dry and wet weather overflows.
• This will also allow wastewater levels to draw down around the collapse so crews can access the damaged pipe, perform a full assessment, and determine the plan and timeline for repair. 

• Bypass operations continue with eight pumps to divert flow around the damaged section and back into the system further downstream.
• Crews are working 24/7 to monitor the site and to clean and maintain the bypass pumps being utilized.
• Cold weather continues to be a challenge for workers and equipment.