NewBaltimore

Why is this project needed?

The New Baltimore water system (serving ~9,500 residents) relies on 13 groundwater wells that face three issues: (1) residents face summer water-use restrictions because the wells can't meet demand; (2) many wells have iron and manganese causing discolored water; and (3) multiple wells have detected PFAS ('forever chemicals') at levels above the federally-set regulatory limits which USEPA plans to implement starting in 2031. This project addresses all three of these problems.

What is the solution?

Fauquier County Water and Sanitation Authority (FCWSA) will build a new underground water line — about 2.7 miles long — connecting to Prince William Water's regional system, which draws clean, treated water from the Potomac River and Lake Manassas. A booster pump station in Fauquier County will convey the water from Prince William Water into the local FCWSA distribution system.

Why not just fix or replace the existing wells?

New wells in the same area would have the same PFAS problems due to local geology. Adding treatment for iron and manganese helps discoloration but does NOT solve PFAS contamination. State regulators and FCWSA determined that connecting to an outside treated water source is the only practical, long-term solution.

What route will the pipeline follow?

The pipeline will run south of Route 15/29 (Lee Highway) through mostly private property — a less developed, less traveled corridor. This 'cross-country' route was chosen over following the highway because it is safer to build, less disruptive to traffic and businesses, causes fewer conflicts with underground utilities, and has less impact on historic resources.

How will the environment be protected?

The project was reviewed by 10+ state and federal agencies. Key protections include: the pipeline will be drilled under Broad Run (no in-stream disturbance), strict erosion controls will be maintained throughout construction, all disturbed areas will be restored and reseeded within 30 days, and tree-clearing will be limited to the extent possible. Onsite investigations for threatened or endangered species and their habitats were performed along the project corridor, and no specimens of threatened or endangered species were observed, and no preferred habitat was identified.

Will construction affect traffic or my neighborhood?

Most construction occurs on private land away from major roads, so traffic impacts will be minimal. Brief lane closures on smaller local roads will use flaggers. No households, residences, or businesses will be displaced. Dust and noise during construction will be temporary and confined to active work areas.

Will my water be safe and reliable after the project?

Yes. The new connection will deliver clean, treated water meeting all current and future federal drinking water standards — including PFAS limits. Summer water-use restrictions will be mitigated, and the discolored water problems from iron and manganese in the current wells will be resolved.

How can I share my comments?

Written comments on the proposed project, the alternatives considered, their environmental impact, the estimated cost, and the associated user charge impact should be addressed to James Newbold, 4035 Ridge Top Road, Suite 500, Fairfax, VA 22030 and post marked no later than October 3, 2026.