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The U.S. EPA continues its push to eliminate lead exposure risks by collaborating with local, state, and federal partners in New London, Connecticut. The city has received nearly $7 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, enabling the replacement of 150 lead service lines and assisting in completing a lead service line inventory. This effort is part of a broader plan to replace approximately 500 lead pipes within the New London Department of Public Utilities distribution system.
Lead Exposure: A Critical Public Health Concern
Lead contamination in drinking water presents significant health risks, particularly to children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), lead exposure can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, and other severe health issues. The agency highlights that no safe level of lead exposure exists, emphasizing the importance of initiatives like the one in New London.
The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, signed by President Biden, allocates $15 billion nationally to replace lead service lines, with $100 million dedicated to Connecticut alone. New London has taken the lead in addressing this issue, securing $6,949,213, including $4,377,609 in principal forgiveness, to accelerate its efforts to provide residents with clean and safe drinking water.
New London: A Model for Lead Pipe Replacement
Under the guidance of EPA’s New England Regional Administrator David W. Cash, New London has made significant progress toward eradicating lead contamination from its water system. Thanks to federal funding, the city is halfway through replacing 150 lead service lines and plans to eliminate all 500 lead service lines in the coming years.
“Protecting children and families by reducing lead exposure is a top priority for EPA,” said Cash. “Thanks to federal funding and New London’s initiative, residents will no longer have to worry about what’s in their water when they turn on the tap.”
The city also benefits from participation in the Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Accelerator program, which provides technical assistance to underserved communities. This program helps New London develop lead service line replacement plans, conduct inventories, and boost community outreach.
Federal Support Amplifies Local Efforts
Local officials, including U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy, have applauded the nearly $7 million investment. “This funding will eliminate more than 150 water supply lines that contain lead,” said Blumenthal. He emphasized the importance of protecting children and families from the “crippling damage” caused by lead exposure.
The funding reflects a larger federal commitment to environmental justice and health equity. The EPA has committed to ensuring that 49% of the funds provided through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) are allocated as grants and forgivable loans to disadvantaged communities, often bearing the brunt of outdated and hazardous infrastructure.
Addressing Lead Poisoning Nationwide
The EPA estimates that approximately 9 million lead service lines are still in use nationwide, posing a risk to public health.
The replacement of lead pipes across the country will protect communities and serve as a critical step in achieving long-term environmental sustainability. The Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) has pointed out that removing lead service lines is one of the most effective ways to reduce lead exposure. In cities like Flint, Michigan, the devastating consequences of lead contamination have been a stark reminder of the importance of proactive measures.
Looking Ahead
New London’s lead service line replacement project serves as a blueprint for other municipalities in Connecticut and across the U.S. As the EPA, state, and local partners continue to drive efforts to eliminate lead from drinking water systems, the city sets a standard for how federal infrastructure funds can effectively address critical public health challenges.