DC Water and DDOT begin restoration activities by assessing roadway in 3rd Street Tunnel

August 26, 2021
3rd Street Tunnel Restoration

Ongoing interagency coordination key to successful response

DC Water and the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) are working closely together in the 3rd Street Tunnel to assess the condition of the damaged pavement and to plan restoration activities.

The break, which began early Monday morning, was on an 8-inch water main inside the 3rd Street Tunnel. Crews isolated the break and restored water to customers by Monday evening. DC Water located and repaired the break in the pipeline –that was installed in 1974 and services the fire hydrants in the tunnel – Tuesday night and are now working with DDOT on repair to the pavement. While there, DC Water also plans to evaluate options to further protect the water system within the tunnel to enhance reliability in the future.

Traffic patterns are expected to remain the same throughout the restoration. The northbound travel lanes in the tunnel are open. Southbound lanes of the 3rd Street Tunnel, NW, between New York Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue will remain closed until further notice. Please continue to use alternate routes.

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Excavation site outside the I-495 Beltway showing section of the PI

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The shields for the tunnel boring machine Mary being lowered by cranes into the shaft

Recognition highlights DC Water’s commitment to environmental stewardship during Earth Month

DC Water has been honored with the “Green Bond of the Year – US Muni Bond” Award by Environmental Finance, a leading industry publication. This achievement celebrates DC Water’s leadership in sustainability and its dedication to responsible municipal financing.

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The shields for the tunnel boring machine Mary being lowered by cranes into the shaft
DC Water Earns Prominent Award for Sustainable Finance Leadership through Green Bonds

Recognition highlights DC Water’s commitment to environmental stewardship during Earth Month

DC Water has been honored with the “Green Bond of the Year – US Muni Bond” Award by Environmental Finance, a leading industry publication. This achievement celebrates DC Water’s leadership in sustainability and its dedication to responsible municipal financing.

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