A newly released interactive map has highlighted the extent of New York’s lead pipe issue, revealing that approximately 1.25 million out of the 3.7 million water service pipes in the state are made of lead or suspected lead. This data, compiled by the New York League of Conservation Voters (NYLCV), showcases a significant public health concern as municipalities and water authorities strive to eliminate the health risks associated with lead in drinking water.
The map indicates that around 3.1 million New Yorkers receive their drinking water through these pipes, which accounts for about 15% of the state’s population. Notably, Buffalo reports the highest confirmed percentage of lead pipes among major cities, with 45% confirmed as lead. Joshua Klainberg, senior vice president of NYLCV, expressed concern over the equal portion of pipes for which the material remains unknown, stating, “What’s equally heartbreaking is that there’s an equal amount, another 45% where it’s unknown, and there’s going to be a good portion of those that will be discovered.”
In addition to the alarming statistics, the city of Buffalo received a $3.45 million state grant aimed at identifying and removing lead pipes. Klainberg pointed out that the lead pipe issue is not confined to urban areas; it impacts communities across the state, regardless of size or wealth. The NYLCV data reveals that about one in three service lines statewide are made of lead or suspected lead.
Federal regulations mandate that replacement work on lead pipes must commence by 2027 and be completed by 2037. While some municipalities have begun this process, New York lacks clear state guidelines on replacement methods and funding responsibilities. Klainberg emphasized the need for more support, stating, “You have some communities that are working with homeowners to share the costs, and others that are just giving the entire bill to the homeowners, sticking them with it.”
The discrepancies in funding and resource allocation have raised concerns among local officials. Jerome Schad, chairman of the Erie County Water Authority, noted that approximately 90% of their funding requests are denied. He explained that despite having both affluent and impoverished neighborhoods, their overall assessment does not reflect the pressing needs of the poorer communities.
Schad indicated that the Erie County Water Authority has already commenced the replacement of lead service lines, reporting “several hundred” replacements this year, with plans for an accelerated pace in the coming year. The ongoing efforts have already incurred costs amounting to $15 million.
The funding landscape for water infrastructure has shifted dramatically since 1981, when the federal government allocated $25 billion for water infrastructure improvements. By 2021, this amount had plummeted to $4 billion. Although the Infrastructure Improvement and Jobs Act passed in 2021 increased funding to $55 billion, Klainberg warned that these resources are expected to be exhausted by the end of next year.
As federal funding dwindles, the urgency for effective policies and public financing becomes increasingly critical. Klainberg noted, “As the federal money winds down over the next year and a half… this is really a wake-up call now to have the policies and the public financing in place.” His vision is for a seamless transition that allows for the efficient and equitable removal of all lead pipes.
Residents in Erie County currently shoulder most of the costs associated with the replacement of lead pipes. Schad affirmed their optimism about ridding the community of lead, stressing the importance of ongoing appeals for financial support from the state.
Long-term exposure to lead poses serious health risks, including headaches, joint pain, and potentially severe nerve and brain damage. Children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning due to their developing bodies, which absorb toxins more readily.
For homeowners concerned about lead pipes, local water authorities can provide guidance. Klainberg recommends practical measures, such as running water after extended periods of non-use, using only cold water for cooking, and investing in lead-certified filtration systems to mitigate health risks.
