News Release

Share your thoughts on proposal to repair sewer system near C&O Canal

Date: June 17, 2022
Contact: Christiana Hanson, 301-491-6265

WILLIAMSPORT, Md. – The National Park Service (NPS), in partnership with DC Water, invites public review of a proposal to repair three segments of a sanitary sewer system adjacent to the Clara Barton Parkway between Lock 14 and the Chain Bridge in the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park. You’re invited to review the proposal and submit comments from June 17, 2022 through July 1, 2022. 

The sanitary sewer system, known as the Potomac Interceptor, was constructed in the 1960s and carries roughly 60 million gallons of wastewater per day from Washington Dulles International Airport and local communities to the Potomac Pumping Station in Washington, D.C. A pipeline inspection has found deterioration of the reinforced concrete within three segments of pipeline. Over time, if not repaired, extensive deterioration could result in the release of raw sewage to the environment. 

The repair of these pipeline segments would occur one at a time. Construction activities on the first segment would last for approximately 18 months, work on the second segment would last for approximately 14 months, and repairs to the final segment would last approximately 9 months. DC Water will work closely with NPS to identify appropriate methods to mitigate potential environmental impacts that may result from the proposed project.  

How to comment: Public participation is vital to the planning process. You are invited to review and provide comments from June 17, 2022 through July 1, 2022. To provide comments online or find additional information on the project, visit the NPS planning website. 

If you prefer to mail your comments, make sure they are postmarked by July 1, 2022 to receive consideration. Mail comments to the following address:  

National Park Service 
ATTN:  Potomac Interceptor Rehabilitation Scoping Comments 
C&O Canal National Historical Park 
142 West Potomac Street 
Williamsport, MD 21795

-NPS- 

Preserving America's early transportation history, the C&O Canal began as a dream of passage to Western wealth. Operating for nearly 100 years the canal was a lifeline for communities along the Potomac River as coal, lumber, and agricultural products floated down the waterway to market. Today it endures as a pathway for discovering historical, natural, and recreational treasures. Learn more at www.nps.gov/choh.