~Emergency sewer project will be completed in two phases~

Fairfax County, Va. – Beginning March 28, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve will be temporarily closed while specialized Department of Public Works and Environmental Services (DPWES) contractors perform an emergency project to clean obstructed County wastewater pipes and make necessary repairs to maintain service. The pipes, also called siphons, convey wastewater across the Potomac River, through Carderock National Park and connect to DC Water’s Potomac Interceptor in Maryland.

During a recent inspection two of the three pipes at the wastewater siphon were found to be non-operational. An emergency repair is necessary, as there is no reasonable bypass alternative if the last pipe fails, which would mean millions of gallons of sewage per day going into the Potomac.

In the initial phase of this project, an estimated 80,000 tons of sediment will be removed from the siphon structure and taken daily from the park via truckloads to restore full operations.

To maintain the safety of the public during and to preserve the natural resources throughout the site, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve, including the east and west parking areas and trails, will be closed for approximately six weeks, beginning March 28. Residents are encouraged to use the Park Authority’s Park Amenity Locator and Trail Buddy to help identify alternate park locations and trails to explore while Scott’s Run is closed and this work is progressing. Weather permitting, work will occur Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

At a later time, the park will close for a second phase of the project to complete maintenance repairs. More details on this additional closure will be released once additional investigations are made during the cleaning process.

Project updates are available online at Scott’s Run Siphon Emergency project webpage.