Dry Weather Overflow Advisory Update

November 19, 2021

As communicated yesterday, DC Water investigated a dry weather overflow event at CSO 029 on the Potomac River. This was due to a leak from an 18” sewer pipe located near 3800 Reservoir Road, NW.

Overnight, crews were able to successfully bypass the leak to contain it and prevent further discharges to the Potomac. However, work to repair the leak was suspended for safety reasons during the periods of rain, which can prove deadly when working inside combined sewer pipes. This morning, the contractor was able to complete the repair and the bypass was removed.

The Potomac River is fast moving and any amount of sewage that discharge should dilute quickly. The public is still advised to stay away from the area near Outfall 029 for the next 24 hours in case there are any residual effects on the receiving waters. Anyone on the Potomac today who may come in contact with the water near CSO 029 should take precautions by bathing and washing equipment and clothing.

Information on Dry Weather Overflows can be found here: 
https://www.dcwater.com/css

Information provided to the public yesterday can be found here:
/whats-going-on/news/dry-weather-overflow-advisory

For more information, please contact DC Water’s 24 hour Command Center at 202-612-3400.

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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

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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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Upcoming Meeting
Date
July 13, 2026
Monday, 2:00 PM

Upcoming Events

Jul 23
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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.