Saint Paul Regional Water Services (SPRWS) has announced an ambitious 10-year plan to eliminate all lead service lines in its service area at no cost to property owners. This initiative, which aims to replace approximately 26,000 lead service lines by 2032, is supported by local and federal funding.

While lead is not present in the water leaving the treatment plant, it can leach into drinking water from lead service lines that connect homes to the water main. To combat this, SPRWS employs a corrosion control process that creates a protective scale inside pipes, minimizing lead leaching. However, the most effective solution remains the complete removal of lead service lines.

Under the new plan, SPRWS will replace both the public and private portions of the service lines, with participation being voluntary. The project is estimated to cost around $300 million and will prioritize replacements based on factors such as the efficiency of concurrent construction projects and demographic data indicating higher risks of lead exposure, particularly among children under five and low-income populations.

In addition to the service line replacements, residents are advised on ways to reduce lead exposure from other sources, such as older home fixtures and plumbing. Recommendations include running cold water for several minutes before use and using water filters for drinking and cooking.

For property owners who wish to expedite the replacement of their service lines, SPRWS offers a lead assessment program, allowing them to hire licensed contractors for work on private property, with costs spread over 20 years. If lead is confirmed, SPRWS will replace the public portion at no cost.

Residents can find more information about the lead-free program and check the status of service line replacements in their area by visiting the SPRWS website.