Dear Neighbor,
This month, I have been highlighting a few projects and priorities that are important to the District in my newsletter. As I have shared, my team and I are spending time this summer ensuring policy initiatives we advanced throughout this past year are implemented as planned, conducting oversight of our District agencies and programs, and meeting with residents across the city to hear ideas about how we can best serve you.
In the last installment of this summer series, I am sharing about the huge Potomac River Tunnel Project to help make the Potomac cleaner and swimmable and about a new pilot program to bring public restrooms to Dupont Circle and Downtown.
Potomac River Tunnel
We are working to make the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers cleaner and swimmable! In order to decrease sewer overflows by 93% and improve water quality, DC Water has begun construction for its Potomac River Tunnel Project. The Project consists of a 5.5-mile-long, 18-foot-wide tunnel that will run from the Georgetown Waterfront to Anacostia.
This year, the Project broke ground at West Potomac Park. DC Water anticipates the tunnel to be completed in 2030. This Project will make meaningful improvements to allow residents and visitors to enjoy cleaner and more beautiful Potomac and Anacostia Rivers! Stay up to date on construction progress here.
Throne Bathrooms
I'm thrilled that the pilot program I have been working on for years to expand access to public restrooms is officially up and running! Beginning this spring, DC Government partnered with Throne Labs to provide sanitary, accessible restroom options in Dupont Circle and Downtown.
Everyone should be able to access a safe, sanitary, nearby restroom, and we have seen fantastic results of this pilot program thus far. I'll be working to expand this important option across the District.
As our teachers, principals and administrative staff welcome students back to school this week, I am wishing all a safe and wonderful school year.
To make sure you continue to receive updates from me as the Council's legislative session begins again on September 16th, make sure you are subscribed to my newsletter!
Yours in Service,
Brooke