Background
The Brink Elevated Water Tank, located at 21701 Ridge Road in Germantown, Maryland, was constructed in 1967 by Pittsburgh Des Moines Steel. The tank is a 1-million-gallon torus-spheroid reservoir with an approximate height of 125 feet and a diameter of 81 feet. It serves a critical role in maintaining water storage capacity and system pressure for the surrounding community.
The purpose of this project is to rehabilitate the elevated tank through structural repairs, replacement of associated piping and valves, recoating of the tank, and site improvements. These upgrades will address aging infrastructure, protect the tank from corrosion, and extend its service life, ensuring reliable water service for the community.
Project Scope
Site Work
Site improvements will support the operation, access, and drainage of the elevated tank facility, including demolition and replacement of existing site piping, valves, and associated vaults; installation of new service, overflow, and drainage piping with required valves and appurtenances; and upgrades to site grading and the access road to accommodate construction activities and long-term maintenance. Additional work includes removing the existing guyed communications tower and installing a new free-standing communications tower, while maintaining continuous access for service providers during construction. Final site restoration will include grading, stabilisation of disturbed areas, and site restoration to ensure proper operation and long-term reliability of the facility
Structural Work
Due to the facility’s age, the project includes structural improvements to restore and strengthen key components of the elevated water storage tank. Work will include repairs to structural elements, including ladders, platforms, hatches, antenna mounts, and interior roof members. Areas exhibiting deterioration due to corrosion will be repaired to ensure the tank's continued structural integrity.
These improvements will extend the structure's service life, enhance overall system reliability, and maintain the tank’s ability to provide safe water storage and system pressure for the surrounding community.
Tank Coating
The tank will receive a new multi-coat protective system for both interior and exterior surfaces. Existing coatings will be removed by abrasive blasting to properly prepare the steel surface, and appropriate safety measures will be implemented to control dust and protect workers and the surrounding area. The new coating system will consist of multiple layers designed to protect the tank from corrosion and environmental exposure, with an expected service life of approximately 20–30 years.
The interior coating will be National Science Foundation-certified for potable water use, while the exterior coating will meet WSSC Water standards. These improvements will enhance the structure's durability and support long-term performance through proper inspection and maintenance.
Containment System
A Class 2-A containment system will be erected around the elevated tank to control debris and emissions during surface preparation and coating activities. This system will effectively contain dust and particles produced during the removal of existing coatings and limit paint overspray during application of the new coating system. All generated waste will be managed and disposed of in accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and all applicable environmental and safety regulations.
During construction, ongoing monitoring will be performed to ensure that dust and any potentially hazardous materials remain confined within the designated work area, preventing impacts to the surrounding environment and supporting regulatory compliance and public safety.
Community Impact
Residents are not anticipated to experience interruptions to water service during the Brink Elevated Tank Rehabilitation Project. Some temporary traffic impacts may occur due to construction vehicles and material deliveries; however, deliveries will be limited between 8:15–10 a.m. and 2:30–4 p.m. Traffic management measures will be implemented as necessary to maintain safe and efficient movement in the area.
Construction activities may generate noise from equipment and ongoing work. Activities are expected to take place during normal weekday hours, with potential overtime or weekend work as required, in accordance with Montgomery County noise regulations. The contractor will also implement appropriate measures to safeguard nearby utilities, structures, and surrounding infrastructure throughout the project.
Additional Information
- March 5, 2026 Community Meeting Presentation (PDF 4.01 MB)
- Location map (PNG 515 KB)
- Estimated project schedule (PNG 193 KB)
Contact
Christopher DeHerde, WSSC Water Project Manager
- Telephone: 301-206-8560
- Email: [email protected]
Last Modified: June 15, 2026, 3:29 pm EDT