2 water main breaks cause major delays across Fairfax County corridors

Published July 7, 2026 5:07 PM EDT

A water main break has shut down Columbia Pike at Spring Lane in Bailey’s Crossroads, as seen in this photo courtesy of the Fairfax County Police Department.

Two separate water main breaks are disrupting travel across Fairfax County, shutting down major thoroughfares just miles apart, according to Fairfax County Police. 

What we know:

The first closure was reported on Columbia Pike at Spring Lane and Carlyn Hill Drive in Bailey’s Crossroads, forcing a total shutdown of the roadway.

A short time later, a second water main break was reported on Route 1 (Richmond Highway) at Popkins Lane near Groveton, completely shutting down all lanes there as well.

A water main break has shut down Route 1 at Popkins Lane near Groveton, as seen in this photo courtesy of the Fairfax County Police Department.

By car, the two high-impact traffic zones sit roughly nine miles apart.

What we don't know:

At this time, it is unknown if the nearly simultaneous infrastructure failures are connected. 

What's next:

Crews are currently on the scene at both locations working on emergency repairs, according to police.

What you can do:

Local transit and police are urging drivers to expect significant delays throughout the area and to seek alternate routes that bypass both corridors entirely.

The Source: Information from the Fairfax County Police Department. 

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