DC Water will begin emergency rehabilitation work on approximately 1,700 feet of the Potomac Interceptor near Muddy Branch and Pennyfield Lock in Potomac on June 15 after inspections identified significant structural deterioration, including corrosion and exposed rebar.
Construction is expected to continue through September 2026 and will include slip lining, installation of a temporary bypass system and repairs to the most critical sections of the wastewater pipeline.
The interceptor carries an average of six million gallons of wastewater daily and is located upstream of major drinking water intakes along the Potomac River. DC Water said the emergency repairs are intended to reduce the risk of a more serious failure following expanded inspections prompted by the January 2026 Potomac Interceptor collapse near Cabin John. Residents and visitors to the C&O Canal National Historical Park and Pennyfield Lock area may see construction crews, heavy equipment and temporary staging throughout the project.
