RiverRenew, the largest infrastructure project in the history of Alexandria, began in July 2018, when the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) approved a joint Long-Term Control Plan prepared by the City of Alexandria and AlexRenew. Following the approval, ownership of the program and remediation of the combined sewer system was transferred to AlexRenew. The massive environmental initiative centered on the construction of the 2.2-mile-long Waterfront Tunnel (completed in 2024), which includes a massive 12-story underground pumping station, and the Hooffs Run Interceptor (completed in 2025).

Crews have dedicated the last four years to advancing the design and construction of the tunnel system. Once fully operational, RiverRenew will capture and convey 120 million gallons of combined sewage annually to AlexRenew for treatment — preventing harmful combined sewer overflows from polluting the Potomac River and its tributaries. 

“This is a significant achievement for our team and a symbolic milestone on our journey to becoming operational,” said Director of Communications Matt Robertson. “Ultimately, RiverRenew will benefit our community, its waterways, and our region — that’s something we can all celebrate.”

As RiverRenew nears completion, the program continues to advance AlexRenew’s commitment to clean waterways and environmental stewardship. Once complete, the system will play a vital role in improving water quality for our community.

About AlexRenew

AlexRenew is the wastewater treatment authority for Alexandria and parts of Fairfax County. Each year, the public utility treats approximately 13 billion gallons of wastewater before safely returning it to our waterways. AlexRenew also oversees the largest infrastructure project in the history of Alexandria — RiverRenew.

 Image below: Test flows pour into the Waterfront Tunnel.