Boston-area communities have access to $200 million for removing lead service lines—but the strongest financial support depends on replacing the entire pipe.
Steve Estes-Smargiassi, director of planning and sustainability at the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, says the regional wholesaler does not own the lead pipes connecting customers to local water systems. Those lines belong to the communities it serves.
Customers rarely know which entity owns each section. They care whether the water reaching their tap is safe and lead-free.
MWRA’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program provides zero-interest loans to help eligible communities identify and remove lead pipes. Communities that fund complete replacement—including the privately owned portion—can also receive a grant covering 25% of eligible project costs.
A dedicated MWRA staff member helps communities design local programs around their individual inventories, finances, and replacement needs.
The strategy addresses one of the most persistent barriers to lead-pipe removal: fragmented ownership should not leave customers responsible for navigating who owns which half of a hazardous pipe.
The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority is one of 16 honorees recognized by the Lead Service Line Replacement Collaborative. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/e8sKJvBc
Content supported by Environmental Defense Fund, RESOLVE, and Environmental Policy Innovation Center.
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