Statement on Sinkhole at Montebello I Water Treatment Plant

Green banner with DPW logo and text "Department of Public Works Press Release"

“At the Baltimore City Department of Public Works, our mission is to support the health, environment, and economy of our City and the region by providing customers with safe drinking water and keeping neighborhoods and waterways clean. Yesterday, DPW crews discovered a sinkhole on the Montebello I Water Treatment Plant property. The sinkhole resulted from a compromised 108” stormwater main installed in the 1880s, which exposed an 84” water main. DPW is coordinating with our state and local partners to stabilize the site swiftly so that the pipes can be secured, the sinkhole backfilled, and water service maintained for our valued customers.”

Director Jason W. Mitchell, Ed.D.

Related Stories

DPW Statement on MOSH Investigation

As part of the Baltimore City Department of Public Works' commitment to maintaining transparency, we are sharing our latest statement regarding the conclusion of the Maryland Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH) investigation. As we continue working to strengthen protections for our solid waste employees, we remain dedicated to ongoing improvements and accountability.

DPW Strengthens Workforce Protections and Infrastructure Amid Ongoing Improvements DPW Advances Employee Safety, Training, and Workplace Culture

DPW has implemented major reforms to tackle systemic challenges, marking significant advancements in the operations of its Bureau of Solid Waste (BSW). Recognizing that employee safety is the foundation of its success, DPW conducted a comprehensive assessment of key factors—including workplace culture, safety standards, infrastructure, and training—leading to the development of a targeted action plan. With clear progress underway, DPW is sharing key updates with the public, demonstrating that its strategic approach is yielding tangible results. 

DPW Offices, Sanitation Yards Closed on Presidents Day City of Baltimore to Observe Presidents Day, Monday, February 17

he Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW)  Director Khalil Zaied reminds residents that all DPW offices and sanitation yards will be CLOSED on Presidents Day, Monday, February 17, 2025. The Presidents Day closure does NOT impact residential trash and recycling collections.