What’s Up at WASA?

The Latest on Sinkholes,Drinking Water, Hydrants, Sewer Overflow and More

Representatives from DC Water and Sewer Authority (WASA) will be at the April 13 CAG meeting to talk about the Capital Improvement Program, a 10-year, $3.2 billion construction program to repair and upgrade the District’s water, sewer and wastewater treatment systems, and to meet federal water pollution control regulations.

Part of this effort, the Georgetown Sewer Rehabilitation project, cannot come soon enough for our neighborhood as sink holes (such at the recent one at Wisconsin and Q) continue to appear suddenly and unpredictably. An investigation in 2006 uncovered multiple (17 of the 29 combined sewers) structural defects—not totally surprising in a system that in some areas is over a hundred years old.

Approximately $1 million is being spent in Georgetown to enhance sewer flows, minimize backups and restore sewer lines to their original structural ability. The project tries to minimize surface disturbances by utilizing trenchless technology wherever possible.

The work, which began in 2008, is taking place in sewers and manholes located within boundaries from 31st Street to 29th Street, and from M Street NW to Avon Lane. This work has and will cause disruptions such as the work on the combined sewer overflow project which may close Q Street for six months to a year.

At the CAG meeting, WASA representatives will also update residents about the Potomac Interceptor Odor Abatement Program to reduce sewer gas odors emanating from faulty vents along the Potomac River corridor, including one at Fletcher’s Boat House.

They will also field questions about the Impervious Surface Area billing charge that removes the cost of the sewer overflow reduction project from the current sewer rate and adds it as a separate line on your WASA bill beginning in April.

The new “Hydrant Look” will also be explained—are they being repaired and what do the different colored bands indicate and why? Plus hear why WASA curtailed the program to replace lead pipes and says that the our drinking water is safe today.

Join your friends and neighbors at St. John’s Church Parish Hall (corner of O and Potomac Street) on Monday April 13 for a reception at 7 pm followed by a most informative meeting at 7:30.

< Back