District Bulletin: Potomac Health Advisory Lifted and 2026 Public Service Deadlines

Official City Notice Roundup: March 7, 2026

As we move into the second weekend of March, several critical updates from District agencies affect residents across all eight wards. From significant environmental milestones to upcoming fiscal planning sessions, here is the official roundup of notices and advisories active today, Saturday, March 7, 2026.

DC Health: Potomac River Recreational Advisory Lifted

The District Department of Health (DC Health) has officially lifted the recreational advisory for the Potomac River within Washington, D.C. This decision follows weeks of rigorous water quality testing after the January 19 sewer line collapse. Dr. Ayanna Bennett, Director of DC Health, confirmed that bacterial levels, specifically E. coli, have remained within safe EPA standards for the past 21 days. While swimming remains legally prohibited in all District rivers, residents may safely resume permitted activities such as kayaking, boating, and catch-and-release fishing. Monitoring will continue in coordination with DC Water and the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) to ensure long-term safety.

Public Service Commission (DCPSC) Regulatory Alerts

The Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia has issued several notices this week regarding utility regulations and assessment requirements. Residents and business owners should be aware of the following:

• Assessment Surveys: All utility providers and related entities must submit their mandatory Annual Assessment Surveys by the April 1, 2026, deadline.
• Standard Offer Service Rates: On March 4, the Commission published the proposed 2026 retail rates and administrative charges for standard offer services. Public comments on these rates are currently being accepted.
• Pipeline Safety: Investigation into natural gas distribution planning continues following recent budget adjustments for infrastructure replacement programs.

DHCD Fiscal Year 2026 Planning and Public Hearings

The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is entering a critical phase for the District’s Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Action Plan. Official notices have been posted for upcoming Needs Assessment Public Hearings starting March 18. These sessions are designed to gather community feedback on spending priorities for federal entitlement funds. Key focus areas include affordable housing, homelessness prevention, and broadband expansion. Residents are encouraged to register to testify either in-person at 1909 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE or via virtual links provided on the DHCD website.

Federal Operating Status and Community Notices

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has confirmed that the federal operating status for the Washington, D.C. area is 'Open' for Saturday, March 7, with normal operating procedures in effect. Additionally, motorists and pedestrians should anticipate a gathering near the U.S. Supreme Court today from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for a scheduled public vigil. Local law enforcement will be on-site to manage traffic flow in the 1 First Street NE area.