Potomac Interceptor Overflow UpdateTuesday, February 3, 2026

 Work to clean and repair the damaged section of the Potomac Interceptor continues, though progress is being slowed by large boulders and rocks inside the pipe. Meanwhile, increased flow from groundwater infiltration attributed to snowmelt, along with periodic clogging of the bypass pumps, at times, resulted in minor overflows near the collapse site. To address these issues, crews are constructing an earthen dam in the nearby stormwater ditch to contain these minor overflows.

The 72-inch section of the sewer line collapsed along Clara ...

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Cleaning efforts continue today on the Potomac Interceptor, to remove debris and obstructions inside the damaged section of the sewer line. The 72-inch pipe collapsed two weeks ago along Clara Barton Parkway and the 495 interchange and the C & O Canal National Historical Park in Montgomery County, Md.  Here is an update on the ongoing work. 

Potomac Interceptor Overflow UpdateMonday, February 2, 2026

Containment

The vast majority of flows have been contained. Site containment is capturing residual wastewater from excavation and cleaning, as well as a brief release of wastewater due to a pumping ... Read More

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 UpdateSunday, 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 ... Read More