DC Water has completed the first of four emergency repair projects on the Potomac Interceptor, a milestone in their efforts to stabilize one of the region’s most important wastewater pipelines after inspections extensive corrosion, worn concrete and exposed steel supports inside the 54 mile sewer line.
On Thursday, July 30, DC Water crews completed work on a 600-foot section of pipe at Dulles International Airport. The Dulles project is the first of four emergency repair sites identified by the agency. Work at the Dulles site will continue with the installation of a new manhole followed by site restoration. DC Water expects that work to be completed by early September. Construction will continue at the three remaining emergency repair sites.
“Completing the first emergency repair on the Potomac Interceptor is an important milestone as we work to address aging sewer infrastructure,” Interim Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of DC Water, Matthew Brown, said. “This work helps protect public health, the environment, and the reliability of a critical sewer line. With this first repair now complete, we continue to make steady progress on both these emergency repairs and our long-term rehabilitation of the Potomac Interceptor.”
DC Water is also advancing a separate long term repair near Rock Run along Clara Barton Parkway, where part of the sewer line collapsed in January. Crews are building a temporary pumping system with three pipelines to divert wastewater safely around the repair area.
Later this fall, workers are expected to begin slip lining the damaged pipe to strengthen the structure and improve its resistance to corrosion.
Visit dcwater.com/potomacinterceptor to learn more.
