NYC launches $48 million initiative to replace lead water lines in vulnerable communities
Eric Adams today announced an expansion of a free program aimed at replacing privately-owned lead and galvanized steel water service lines in low-income neighborhoods of the Bronx and Queens.
In a significant move towards ensuring safe drinking water for all New Yorkers, Mayor Eric Adams today announced an expansion of a free program aimed at replacing privately-owned lead and galvanized steel water service lines in low-income neighborhoods of the Bronx and Queens.
According to the Official Website of the City of New York, the initiative targets households in environmental justice communities where lead service lines are prevalent, and where the median household income is less than $47,600.
This program is bolstered by $48 million in grants and interest-free loans, partially funded by the Biden-Harris administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which allocated $15 billion nationwide for lead service line replacements. New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s state loan forgiveness program also plays a crucial role in this effort.
“New York City’s drinking water continues to be safe, clean, and delicious,” said Mayor Adams. “With this expanded program, we’re helping thousands of homeowners in low-income neighborhoods afford important infrastructure work that will do even more to prevent lead exposure. And outside of this program, we will continue to test, filter, and treat our water supply to keep all New Yorkers safe and well-hydrated.”
The city’s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will begin sending letters to eligible residents in the Bronx, who can already enroll in the program. Work has commenced for some properties, while residents in Queens can expect correspondence next year. Service line replacements, which typically cost over $10,000, will be done at no cost to the homeowners involved.
“This program represents the very best of government collaboration in service of our city,” said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. “Now, thanks to a $48 million grant from the Biden-Harris administration and our Federal Infrastructure Funding task force’s ongoing work, thousands of homeowners in lower-income areas who need to replace individual old lead lines can do so – and cost will not be an obstacle.”
Public health officials highlight the importance of this initiative, noting that lead exposure can severely impact children’s development. “Lead in drinking water irreparably harms the health of children and disproportionately impacts lower-income communities and communities of color,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia.
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The announcement builds on previous efforts, including a successful pilot program in 2022 that replaced approximately 600 lead service lines in various boroughs. This expansion aims to reach those most affected by lead exposure, reinforcing the city’s commitment to environmental justice and public health.
“As we work as an administration to keep our communities safe, healthy, and thriving, we are grateful to our federal partners for providing the city with another powerful tool to eliminate lead risks in our most vulnerable communities,” said Jean-Claude LeBec, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Risk Management and Compliance.
With lead pipes posing a serious threat to public health, the new initiative is set to make a tangible difference in the lives of many New Yorkers, ensuring access to clean, safe drinking water for generations to come.
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