The Dupont Circle Fountain has flowing water running again—at least for the time being.
Formally known as the Rear Admiral Samuel Francis Dupont Memorial Fountain (after the late rear admiral), the Dupont Circle Fountain hasn’t had flowing water for roughly two-to-three years as it’s been undergoing repairs and updates through the National Park Service (NPS). Some eagle-eyed Washingtonians noticed it was back on in recent days and announced it on social media and alerted beloved D.C. blogs.
However, the excitement might not last long.
NPS spokesperson Michael Litterst told WAMU/DCist that phase 2 of repairs will take place later this spring, during which time the water will be shut off again for a short period.
“Phase two will entail waterproofing the fountain base and will take place later this spring,” Litterst said. “That work will take approximately six weeks to complete, during which time the fountain will be off again.”
Washingtonians previously thought repairs were done when water was spotted in the fountain in December 2022, but it was quickly shut back off and the NPS said it had been “a test” of the piping system.
A number of D.C. fountains have been effectively shut down and undergoing extensive repairs, including the Meridian Hill Park Fountain (also known as the Malcolm X Park Fountain).
Here’s hoping the fountain will be in full functioning condition to run again for a majority of the summer!