City Service Roundup: Potomac Safety Updates and Spring Maintenance Schedules

Public Health Advisory: Potomac River Recreational Restrictions Lifted

As of Thursday, March 5, 2026, DC Health has officially lifted the recreational advisory for the District’s portion of the Potomac River. Following weeks of rigorous water quality monitoring after a major sewer line collapse in January, bacterial levels—specifically E. coli—have consistently returned to safe ranges for secondary contact. Residents and visitors may resume permitted activities such as boating, kayaking, and catch-and-release fishing. However, officials remind the public that swimming remains legally prohibited in all District waterways at all times.

Infrastructure Update: Potomac Interceptor Emergency Repairs

DC Water continues its 24/7 operations to reinforce the damaged section of the Potomac Interceptor. Crews are currently applying a high-strength geopolymer lining to the interior of the pipe to ensure long-term structural integrity. To maintain transparency, DC Water has added two new water quality sampling locations near Sycamore Island and Lock 6. While emergency repairs are on track for completion by mid-March, the bypass pumping system using the C&O Canal will remain active until the line is fully restored. Environmental restoration of the impacted shoreline is also underway in coordination with the National Park Service.

Public Works: Residential Street Sweeping and Parking Enforcement

The Department of Public Works (DPW) reminds residents that the 2026 residential street sweeping season began on Monday, March 2. To assist in the transition, DPW is observing a grace period through March 13, during which warnings will be issued to vehicles parked on signed streets during sweeping hours. Beginning March 16, a $45 fine and a $100 relocation fee will be strictly enforced. Residents are encouraged to check posted signage for specific two-hour restricted intervals in their neighborhoods to ensure thorough curb-to-curb cleaning and to prevent debris from entering the local sewer system.

Transportation and Public Service Notices

• Traffic Impacts: The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) reports ongoing sidewalk repairs on Nebraska Avenue NW and Independence Avenue SW. Long-term deckover work on Connecticut Avenue NW continues to impact service lanes between Q Street and Dupont Circle.
• Public Service Commission: A technical conference for Formal Case No. 1050 is scheduled for today, March 5, regarding utility infrastructure planning and the transition to modified natural gas safety programs.
• Transit Alert: Riders of the DC Streetcar are reminded that service is winding down ahead of a full system closure scheduled for March 31, 2026. Adjustments to headways are currently in effect.