Providence Water seeks $26.2M federal funding for lead service replacement project

The Providence City Council's Finance Committee meeting on June 17, 2025, spotlighted a critical funding request aimed at tackling lead service line replacements across the city. The committee discussed the third tranche of federal funding, amounting to $26.2 million, intended to support the ongoing efforts to replace lead service lines, a significant public health concern.

The funding proposal features favorable terms, including a 20-year term with 0% financing and 49% principal forgiveness, which could result in approximately $12.8 million being forgiven. This financial support is crucial as the city continues its commitment to replacing lead service lines, particularly in areas with high concentrations of lead infrastructure.

While the funding is set to bolster the city’s efforts, there remains uncertainty about future funding availability. The committee acknowledged that the federal infrastructure bank has not yet released funds for subsequent tranches, raising concerns about the continuity of the project. The urgency to secure this funding was emphasized, as the city aims to maximize available resources before they potentially run out.

Committee members also raised questions about community outreach and communication regarding eligibility for the program. Many residents expressed confusion about their status and the process for participation. The city officials assured that they are actively working to improve communication, including mailings and public outreach meetings, to ensure residents are informed about their eligibility and the timeline for service replacements.

As the city gears up for the next steps, the focus remains on engaging residents and ensuring that the lead service line replacement initiative reaches as many households as possible. The council's commitment to this project reflects a broader effort to enhance public health and safety in Providence, with hopes of achieving a significant reduction in lead exposure for residents.