Photo: Irina Starikova / iStock / Getty Images
In Troy, New York, significant progress is being made in the effort to replace lead service lines. Mayor Carmella Mantello announced that since the initiative began last year, over 400 lead pipes have been replaced. The city is now issuing a new Request for Bid (RFB) to ensure the momentum continues without interruption. This summer, five crews will work simultaneously, with three contractors dedicated solely to lead pipe replacement.
The project is supported by $12.8 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. Mayor Mantello emphasized the city's commitment to providing clean and safe drinking water for all residents, stating, "No parent or resident should ever have to fear turning on their faucet."
The initiative aims to replace nearly 1,000 more lines this year. Since inventory efforts began in 2022, the city has logged 60.8 percent of its service lines. Andrew Golden, Maintenance Manager for the public utilities department, explained that the city uses hydro excavation to advance inventory without interrupting water services. This process involves exposing both the public and private sides of the pipe to document them in the city's inventory.
The city is also utilizing artificial intelligence to enhance its inventory process, using property records and software to check lines in the field. Residents can have their contaminated lines replaced for free, with lead pipes being swapped for Type K Copper Pipes.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. The city is working to secure additional funding and support from state officials to continue the replacement of privately-owned lead pipes. The administration and city council have collaborated on new legislation to expedite the process and address funding challenges.