anchor Description
This project includes planning, which involves community outreach and coordination with elected officials, design, and construction of a submerged channel intake to provide an additional barrier against drinking water contamination (particularly Giardia cysts and Cryptosporidium oocysts), as well as to enhance reliability and reduce treatment costs by drawing water from a location with cleaner, more stable water quality. Both Councils will review the results of the planning work and the updated costs and benefits of the project and must approve continuing the project before design and construction proceed.
anchor Justification
The project provides for a more reliable supply by eliminating the current problems associated with ice and vegetation blocking the existing bank withdrawal. This project is consistent with the industry's recommended multiple barrier approach.
anchorOther
The project scope has remained the same. Significant outreach activities occurred as part of the planning phase of this project. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process was concluded in January 2018 when the National Park Service (NPS) approved the Environmental Assessment and transmitted its record of decision and the Finding of No Significant Impact. Future land costs are included in project W-202.00. Both Councils will review the results of the planning work and the updated costs and benefits of the project and must approve continuing the project before design and construction proceed.
anchorCoordination
Coordinating Agencies: Maryland Department of Natural Resources; Maryland Department of the Environment; Maryland-National Capital Park & Planning Commission; Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection; Montgomery County Government; National Park Service; Prince George's County Department of Environmental Resources; Prince George's County Government; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Coordinating Projects: W - 000073.33 - Potomac WFP Consent Decree Program