City Update: Potomac Water Safety, DMV Closures, and Federal Operating Status

Federal Government and Local Operating Status

As of Monday, March 9, 2026, the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has announced that federal agencies in the Washington, D.C. area are open under normal operating procedures. Employees are expected to report to their worksites on time. This status also reflects a return to standard schedules for District government offices and public schools, following the conclusion of earlier winter weather protocols from February.

Health Advisory: Potomac River Recreational Safety

DC Health has officially lifted the recreational water advisory for the Potomac River. The advisory, which had been in place since a major sewage interceptor collapse on January 19, was rescinded after consistent testing confirmed that E. coli levels have returned to safe, federally mandated ranges for secondary contact. While swimming remains prohibited without a specific permit, residents may resume activities such as kayaking and catch-and-release fishing. Officials noted that the District’s drinking water was never impacted during the spill, as intake points are located upstream from the site of the pipe failure.

Public Service Announcement: Georgetown DMV Service Center

The District Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) reminds residents that the Georgetown Service Center remains closed until further notice. This prolonged closure is a result of significant flooding and infrastructure damage caused by a water main break in early February. Residents who typically utilize the Georgetown location are encouraged to use the DC DMV mobile app for renewals or visit alternate service centers in Southwest or Benning Ridge. Walk-in services remain available at all other active locations during regular business hours.

Department of Public Works and Special Collections

The Department of Public Works (DPW) reports that trash, recycling, and curbside food waste collections are proceeding on their regular Monday schedule. Additionally, the city is preparing for a Special Waste Collection Event scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026. This event will take place at RFK Stadium Parking Lot 8 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Residents can safely dispose of household hazardous waste, recycle old electronics, and utilize on-site document shredding services. One ticket per family is required for entry to manage traffic flow at the lot.

Council Legislative Highlights

The Council of the District of Columbia continues to move forward with several key legislative measures this week. Recent highlights include the confirmation of Dr. Francisco Diaz as Chief Medical Examiner and Dr. Sean Morgan as the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department Medical Director. Current legislative focuses include the First Responder Retention Efforts Amendment Act of 2026, aimed at strengthening the District's emergency service workforce.