Letter to the editor: Replacement of lead water pipes must continue

Tribune-Review | Thursday, November 14, 2024 7:00 a.m.

In a landmark move, the federal government just required removal of all lead pipes in drinking water systems within a decade. The City of Pittsburgh already has been working to eliminate this public health threat to our children and families. In fact, it is halfway done with the goal of replacing every lead pipe by 2026.

Accomplishing a task this big requires collaboration between government at all levels and partners in the private sector. We’re fortunate the Shapiro administration announced a $216.3 million investment to help, including over $5 million in grant and low-interest loan funding for Pennsylvania American Water so we can replace 357 lead pipes in Pittsburgh while saving customers money.

I’m proud our company already is compliant with lead action levels and that we’ve replaced more than 600 lead service lines this year. But we need your help to finish the job. If you are a Pennsylvania American Water customer, check and report your service line material at pennsylvaniaamwater.com/LeadFacts. If you have lead pipes, we’ll get them replaced at no direct cost to you.

Bruce Aiton

Mechanicsburg

The writer is vice president of engineering for Pennsylvania American Water.