PWSA will complete targeted lead service lines replacements with a prioritization model that removes lead in drinking water for our most vulnerable populations.
Lead Service Line Replacement Approaches
Neighborhood Lead Line Replacement Project: We target all lead lines in a geographic space, passing over non-lead service lines. When a private service line is made of lead, we will work with the property owner to replace the line at no direct cost.
Priority Lead Line Replacement Project: We target at-risk populations, like daycare facilities and homes with high lead levels. We plan to replace all lead lines at daycare facilities by the end of 2022, as well as replace lead lines at any residential locations with elevated lead samples.
Water main + lead service line replacement: This annual program targets aging water mains that also show high concentrations of lead lines attached. You can read more about this program on our 2022 Water Main Replacement Program page.
How is a service line replaced?
A typical service line
Crews will start the process by going to each property and inspecting the service line material at every property. This will help determine which sites have lead service lines that need replaced.
If both a private and public lead service line is found at a property, the PWSA Lead Help Desk will reach out and set a coordination meeting with the property owner to discuss the replacement methods and schedule a replacement date. If a customer has a public lead service line, it will be replaced at no cost and no coordinate meeting is needed.
The next step of the process is to replace the lead service line with a non-lead material. We request that the property owner or a designated representative be present on this day. We will provide a lead pitcher filter and cartridges, as well as flushing instructions, after replacement.
The final step of the project is restoration of streets and sidewalks. You can expect a delay between the completion of your service line replacement and restoration activities.
Where will work occur?
Two PWSA contractors will have seven crews working in the following neighborhoods throughout our service area. Click on your neighborhood to see where service lines will be replaced:
Neighborhood Lead Line Replacement Project
North Oakland - Final Restoration
For more construction updates, visit the project page.
South Oakland - Final Restoration
For more construction updates, visit the project page.
East Allegheny/North Shore - ACTIVE
For more construction updates, visit the project page.
East Liberty - ACTIVE
For more construction updates, visit the project page.
Squirrel Hill - ACTIVE
For construction updates, visit the project page.
Brighton Heights - ACTIVE
For construction updates, visit the project page.
Bloomfield - UPCOMING
For construction updates, visit the project page.
Completed Neighborhood Work Areas
Elliott/Crafton Heights - Complete
For more construction updates, visit the project page.
As work progresses, more neighborhoods will be announced.
Priority Lead Line Replacement Project
PWSA has worked with community partners to compile a list of all registered daycare facilities in our water service area. PWSA will replace lead service lines at daycare facilities where they are found. This program will also address lead line replacements at any locations with elevated lead samples taken via our Free Lead Test Kit Program.
If you have questions about this program, please reach out to the Lead Help Desk at 412-255-8987 or at LeadHelp@pgh2o.com.
For construction updates on this project, visit the project page.
Questions?
For lead service line replacement questions, contact the Lead Help Desk at 412-255-8987 or email LeadHelp@pgh2o.com.
Visit the project pages above for more information on construction progress or contact Construction Communications Project Manager, Mora McLaughlin, at 412-689-4137 or at mmclaughlin@pgh2o.com.