Denver Water's $700M project to replace lead pipes gains momentum
- Denver Water is replacing around 60,000 lead service lines following new regulations from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
- The $700 million project aims to eliminate harmful lead exposure, particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly.
- Progress on the initiative is evident, with several projects completed and more planned for upcoming years, highlighting the city's commitment to public health.
In the United States, specifically in Denver, a significant initiative is underway to replace lead service lines. This project, costing around $700 million, involves the removal of approximately 60,000 lead pipes. Denver Water, the public utility in charge, is in collaboration with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to comply with new federal regulations aimed at reducing lead exposure. The removal of these pipes is essential, as lead is a harmful pollutant that poses severe health risks, particularly to children and the elderly. Findings from a decade ago indicated dangerous lead levels in Denver's water, prompting local officials in 2020 to commit to replacing between 64,000 and 84,000 lead pipes over the next 15 years. The initiative is financially backed by ratepayer funds and support from the bipartisan infrastructure bill. Various smaller projects have already been completed, while more are in progress or planned for 2025. Denver Water provides helpful resources for residents, including interactive maps to determine potential lead pipe issues at their properties. This extensive project aims to safeguard public health and ensure compliance with the EPA's new requirements.