Washington Aqueduct
Coverage of Washington Aqueduct in the Nexus archive.
- Emergency work underway on Potomac Interceptor in Maryland to protect drinking water
DC Water has initiated emergency repairs on a corroded 1,700-foot section of the Potomac Interceptor sewer line near Lock 22 on the C&O Canal in Maryland. A spill at this location could threaten the drinking water intakes for WSSC Water and Washington Aqueduct, though Fairfax Water’s intake would remain unaffected. Crews are installing a temporary bypass system while the compromised pipe is replaced, with work expected to last through September.
- New $25M regional study aims to secure backup water supply beyond the Potomac River
A $25 million regional study called 'Secure the Source' is being launched by WSSC Water, the Washington Aqueduct, and Fairfax Water to identify a large-scale backup water supply for the D.C. area, addressing vulnerabilities in the region’s reliance on the Potomac River. The study aims to ensure emergency water access for weeks if the river becomes unusable due to drought or contamination.
- DC Water to start emergency repairs on Potomac Interceptor to protect local drinking water supply
DC Water is initiating emergency repairs on a deteriorating section of the Potomac Interceptor sewer line in Potomac, Maryland, to protect drinking water intakes for WSSC Water and the Washington Aqueduct. Inspections revealed structural issues like corrosion and exposed rebar, prompting immediate action. Repairs, starting June 15, 2026, will include building an above-ground bypass pipeline and monitoring equipment, with construction expected to continue until September 2026.