Official City Notice: Potomac River Advisory and Public Meeting Schedule for February 26

Health Advisory: Potomac River Contact Warning Remains in Effect

District health officials have issued a reminder that the health advisory regarding contact with the Potomac River remains active as of Thursday, February 26, 2026. Following the significant sewer line collapse of the Potomac Interceptor on January 19, residents and visitors are urged to avoid all recreational contact with the river water, including kayaking, rowing, and fishing. While no new overflows have been reported since early February, E. coli levels are still being monitored. Current projections from DC Health suggest the advisory will remain in place until at least March 2, provided that water quality samples remain within safe historical ranges.

DC Water: Community Meeting and Infrastructure Updates

In response to the ongoing repairs of the Potomac Interceptor, DC Water will host a community meeting today, Thursday, February 26, at 7:00 p.m. This session is specifically intended for residents in the affected areas of the Potomac corridor and will be held at Walt Whitman High School. Officials will provide the latest updates on the emergency repair timeline, which is currently slated for completion in mid-March. Additionally, DC Water is scheduled to hold a Finance and Budget Committee Meeting earlier today to discuss upcoming fiscal priorities and project funding.

Public Service Commission: Special Open Meeting

The Public Service Commission of the District of Columbia (DCPSC) has scheduled a Special Open Commission Meeting for today, February 26. The primary agenda item involves a formal case regarding the Potomac Electric Power Company’s (Pepco) Annual Bill Stabilization Adjustment filing. Members of the public are invited to observe the proceedings virtually via the commission's official web portal. This meeting is part of the District’s ongoing effort to ensure transparency in utility rate adjustments and service reliability.

Department of Public Works: Trash Collection and Holiday Greenery

The Department of Public Works (DPW) has announced that all residential trash and recycling collection routes that experienced delays earlier this week are expected to be completed by the end of the day, Thursday, February 26. Residents are advised to keep their collection containers at the designated point of collection until service is confirmed. Furthermore, DPW reminds households that the seasonal collection of holiday trees and greenery will conclude this coming Saturday, February 28. This is the final opportunity for residents to utilize the curbside composting program for winter greenery.

Infrastructure Forum: Georgetown Tunnel Project

Residents are encouraged to attend the Georgetown Tunnel Forum this evening from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This public service announcement concerns the Potomac River Tunnel Project, a major infrastructure initiative designed to reduce combined sewer overflows. The forum will provide a platform for community feedback on construction impacts and long-term environmental benefits for the Georgetown waterfront area.