Statement by DC WASA Interim General Manager Avis Marie Russell Regarding Chain Bridge Road Fire

July 31, 2009

The DC Water and Sewer Authority (DC WASA), in co-operation with District Fire and EMS, is undertaking a thorough review of the circumstances associated with last night’s fire at the Cooper Cafritz Mansion on Chain Bridge Road. A report on the findings will be released at the completion of the investigation, by both agencies, into the operations, equipment and water supply in the area at the time of the fire. We are working in partnership with Fire and EMS to ensure that sufficient fire fighting hydrant flows are available for the safety of neighborhoods across the city.

Latest News

Picture of frozen water pipes with icicles hanging off of them

With December getting off to a near-record cold start now is the time to act. Winter weather can bring risks like frozen pipes, water main breaks, and other emergencies that can disrupt your water service. Don’t wait for something to happen. DC Water encourages customers to prepare now and know what to do if the unexpected happens.

Worker on side of steep slope

TRAFFIC ADVISORY - CLEAN RIVERS - POTOMAC RIVER TUNNEL PROJECT

DC Water is in the final stretch of its slope stabilization project along Canal Road NW, a critical project that will pave the way for Potomac River Tunnel construction at this site. Beginning, the week of December 15, 2025, one westbound lane of Canal Road will be closed during daytime, off-peak hours on weekdays and Saturdays to hydroseed the slope.

Image of Wendy with EPA Letter

DC Water is reaching out to nearly 25,000 customers this month with important information about the material of their water service lines. These annual notifications are part of DC Water’s ongoing commitment to prevent exposure to lead and remove lead service lines from the District’s drinking water system through the Lead Free DC initiative.

Upcoming Meeting

Board of Directors Meeting

April 24, 2023

Monday 9:00 AM

Announcement

Worker on side of steep slope
Canal Road Slope Stabilization Project Nears End; Off-peak Lane Closure to Replant Slope

TRAFFIC ADVISORY - CLEAN RIVERS - POTOMAC RIVER TUNNEL PROJECT

DC Water is in the final stretch of its slope stabilization project along Canal Road NW, a critical project that will pave the way for Potomac River Tunnel construction at this site. Beginning, the week of December 15, 2025, one westbound lane of Canal Road will be closed during daytime, off-peak hours on weekdays and Saturdays to hydroseed the slope.

Latest Blog Post
A helicopter lowers a drill rig to workers on the Potomac River.
DC Water begins drilling in Potomac River to explore options to rehab underwater sewer line
When one of your major sewer lines runs through the Potomac River, a backhoe and trencher won't do. That's why we've got helicopters carrying a 14-ton drill and workers suspended midair over the Potomac.
Upcoming Meeting

Upcoming Events

Customer Service Center Announcement

Payment Plan Incentive: provides a credit back of 40% of the last 3 payments made and in the new fiscal year 50% will be credited. Eligible participants are residential customers who have had an outstanding balance for 60 days or greater and with an outstanding balance of $500 or more.