Businesses preparing for impact of essential-water-use-only request in Prince George’s County

CLINTON, Md. ( DC News Now ) — People in portions of southern Prince George’s County are being asked to conserve water . WSSC says it needs to replace a failing water main.

The essential-water-use-only request goes into effect Wednesday night starting at 8 p.m. and is expected to last about three days.

Forty thousand homes and businesses will be affected in Clinton, Rosaryville, Marlton, Brandywine, Accokeek and portions of Fort Washington.

It is also expected to impact businesses that rely on using a lot of water, such as car washes, laundromats and dry cleaners.

On Wednesday afternoon, before the water usage request took effect, Pro Wash Car Wash in Clinton had a steady line of cars and a steady flow of water.

“We have a couple tanks, water tanks and the pressure washers. We’re going to try and bring it to to the shop and see if we can do the work,” said manager Rocal Alvaral.

But they’ll have to close one of two days to set up the water tanks.

Typically, they service 90 to 100 cars a day, but with the restrictions, they will only be able to service 40 to 45 cars, according to Alvaral.

That’s half the cars and half the revenue they’re used to.

WSSC said the water usage limitations are necessary to replace a failing 16-foot-long section of a 36-inch-diameter water main under Dower House Road.

That’s near where Brittney Wills lives.

“We’re not going to run the dishwasher twice a day. we were trying to wash up all of our clothes now,” said Wills.

At the grocery store, shoppers were preparing for the next few days.

“I had to come out and get water, and I’m conserving. I’ve already washed clothes, so I’m straight for the rest of the week,” said Gail Hairston.

WSSC is asking people to limit the use of washing machines and dishwashers to full loads only, stop watering lawns, stop washing cars and topping off pools, take shorter showers, quickly turn off faucets after use and limit flushing toilets.

“In compliance so they can do what they need to do,” Hairston said. “I’m trying PG County. I’m doing my part.”

Complying with the water usage request could prevent a boil water advisory for the 110,00 people affected.

To view a map of the affected areas, click here.

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