Developer fined $200K for illegal scheme uncovered by authorities: 'We will not allow them'

A Washington, DC developer has been ordered to pay $200,000 and permanently secure nearby wetlands after state investigators exposed an illicit operation that drained protected natural areas and polluted the Anacostia River.

According to the DC attorney generals office, Kenilworth Park, LLC (RKP) a subsidiary of Gragg Cardona Souadi committed multiple environmental violations while building an assisted living facility at 1650 Kenilworth Avenue NE.

Investigators found that between 2020 and 2022 the company installed more than 200 unapproved groundwater extraction wells, removed millions of gallons of water daily, and released untreated wastewater into municipal storm drains, ultimately contaminating the river.

Officials reported that the unlawful operation dried over two acres of federally protected wetlands near Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens and repeatedly exceeded pollution thresholds without reporting the violations.

DC attorney general Brian Schwalb emphasized that the city will strictly enforce environmental laws designed to safeguard natural resources, stating that the District will not allow developers to undermine progress toward maintaining a clean and swimmable Anacostia River.

Under the settlement, RKP must pay the $200,000 fine and establish a conservation easement permanently protecting remaining wetlands, a requirement that will apply to all future property owners as well.

Environmental groups voiced strong support for the ruling, calling it a clear example of how vulnerable the citys natural spaces continue to be. Representatives from Anacostia Riverkeeper condemned the damage to rare wetlands and the release of contaminated water into the river without treatment or notification.

The case highlights the urgent need for stronger oversight of development projects and greater investment in sustainable urban planning that prioritizes clean waterways and preserved green spaces. Nationwide efforts including federal wetland protection initiatives and community-led conservation programs continue working to restore harmed ecosystems and prevent similar violations in the future.

Author: Connor Blake