Cleveland Water outlines lead service line replacement plan affecting city road projects

Cleveland Water's lead service line replacement plan is set to reshape Garfield Heights' infrastructure over the next decade, as city council members grapple with the implications for local road projects. During a recent council meeting, officials revealed that the water department has identified over 4,000 lead connections within the city, which are critical to address for public health.

Cleveland Water plans to replace more than 300 lead service lines annually until 2037. However, this initiative introduces significant challenges for the city’s road repair programs. Council members learned that if a road is paved, the water department will not replace lead lines in that area for at least five years, complicating the timing and planning of street repairs.

"This throws a new kink into all of our thinking for projects," one council member noted, emphasizing the need for strategic coordination with Cleveland Water. The city has historically relied on replacing water lines before paving streets, but this new policy means that funding for road repairs will be limited until the lead service line replacement program concludes.

As discussions continue, city officials are working closely with Cleveland Water to develop a comprehensive plan that addresses both water infrastructure and road maintenance. More updates are expected as the city navigates these challenges, ensuring that public safety and infrastructure integrity remain a priority.