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Pennsylvania american Water Invests Millions to Replace Lead Service Lines
Pittsburgh, PA – In a significant move to enhance water quality and public health, Pennsylvania American Water is undertaking a comprehensive project to replace 357 lead service lines in Mt. Oliver and Pittsburgh’s Carrick neighborhood.
This initiative, fueled by a combination of low-interest loans and grants, addresses concerns about lead in drinking water and ensures safer access for over 2 million customers across Pennsylvania.
Funding Boosts Critical Infrastructure Upgrade
The project is made possible through a $1.6 million low-interest loan coupled with a $3.3 million grant from the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST). These funds are crucial for upgrading aging infrastructure and mitigating the risks associated with lead contamination.
This investment comes in the wake of a 2024 federal mandate requiring all drinking water systems to replace lead pipes within the next decade, underscoring the urgency and importance of this work.
Proactive approach to Public Health
JoAnn Hepler, a senior manager with Pennsylvania American Water’s lead program, emphasized the company’s proactive stance. “This project in the Carrick area and Mt. Oliver area of Pittsburgh is really aligned with were we see a lot of lead services,so we knew that we could help those customers in that area by replacing those,” said Hepler.
Starting this week, contractors are actively identifying and replacing both utility-owned and privately-owned lead service lines at no direct cost to homeowners. This includes the replacement of galvanized steel service lines that were previously connected to lead sources, further reducing potential contamination, because, “Did You Know?” galvanized steel pipes can accumulate lead over time!
Customer Agreements and Identification Efforts
Pennsylvania American Water is actively reaching out to customers with known lead or galvanized service lines to obtain signed agreements for replacement. Residents in Carrick and Mt. Oliver, whose service line materials are unknown, should have already received postcards requesting them to report their service material or seek assistance in identifying it.
| Location | Service Lines | Funding Source | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mt. Oliver & Carrick (Pittsburgh) | 357 | $1.6M Loan, $3.3M Grant (PENNVEST) | Summer 2025 |
| Homestead | TBD | PENNVEST Funding | Fall 2025 (Expected) |
| New Castle | 550 | PENNVEST Funding | TBD |
Health Risks and Mitigation
Consuming lead-contaminated water poses significant health risks, particularly for children, including decreases in IQ and attention span.Adults face risks such as increased blood pressure and decreased kidney function. For those with lead or galvanized lines, Hepler advises, “Pro Tip:” flush your water for 30 seconds to two minutes before using it to minimize potential exposure.
“Drinking water that leaves our treatment facilities does not contain lead, so it’s really just a proactive measure,” Hepler said. “Flushing will help remove any lead sediment that might be sitting in those pipes.”
ongoing Projects and Future Plans
This project is slated to continue throughout the summer. Pennsylvania American Water has also secured PENNVEST funding for similar lead service line replacement initiatives in Homestead, with work expected to commence this fall, and New Castle.The company is committed to replacing all lead lines by 2037.
“We’re trying to be proactive in replacing these services and identifying projects across the state of Pennsylvania,” Hepler stated.
Are you concerned about lead in your drinking water? What steps have you taken to ensure your water is safe?
Understanding Lead Service Lines: An Evergreen Perspective
Lead service lines, often found in older homes and buildings, connect the
