Burst Pipe Floods County HHS Building, Services Shift To Remote
A burst pipe flooded the new Health and Human Services building in Capitol Heights on December 15, forcing an evacuation and closure until further notice. Local residents who rely on in person services should use telephone or online options while county leaders assess damage and plan a safe reopening.
On Monday, December 15, 2025, a pipe burst inside the new Health and Human Services building at 9187 Central Avenue in Capitol Heights, causing significant flooding and prompting an immediate response from the Prince George's County Fire and EMS Department. Firefighters shut off the building water supply and evacuated staff. The building remains closed until further notice as county officials evaluate repairs and safety.
The facility houses Prince George's County Department of Family Services, the County Health Department, and a senior activity center run by the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commission. Staff at those offices were directed to telework for the remainder of the day and will continue remote work until the building is deemed safe and reopened to the public. County leadership is monitoring the situation and will issue a public notice when in person services resume.
Many essential services continue to be available by phone and online Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Residents seeking Department of Family Services assistance can call 301 265 8401. Health Department services are reachable at 301 883 7879. For matters normally handled by the Department of Social Services, call 301 909 6000. Those who require in person accommodation should contact these numbers to arrange alternatives or to confirm appointments.
Local impact is most acute for seniors who use the nearby activity center and for residents who rely on hands on support from social and health services. The temporary loss of a consolidated service location may increase travel times and complicate access for people with limited mobility or without reliable internet. County officials and partner agencies are coordinating to direct clients to alternate locations where possible and to maintain continuity of care.
Investigations into the cause of the pipe failure and an assessment of infrastructure and flood damage are underway. Residents are advised to use the provided phone numbers for service updates and to await official announcements about reopening and any relocated in person services.
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