COATESVILLE–City residents now have the opportunity to have their lead and galvanized water lines replaced free of charge through a Pennsylvania American Water Program.
About 2 percent of Coatesville homes, like many communities with older infrastructure, have lead and galvanized service lines, the pipe that brings water from the main into the home.
These service lines are owned by the homeowner, and in 240 Coatesville homes are being replaced free of charge in the coming months, according to JoAnn Hepler, American Water, Senior Manager Water Quality Programs.
New water pipes after lead pipes have been removed. Homeowners in Coatesville are eligible to have the lead pipes replaced. (SUBMITTED PHOTO/AW)
“We are trying to give peace of mind by removing the galvanized and lead from their pipes,” Hepler said. “It’s a great opportunity for us and our customers.”
The almost $4.2 million project is funded by a $2.9 million low-interest loan and $1.26 million grant from PENNVEST, the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority.
Lead was often used for service lines prior to the 1986 enactment of a federal law which banned the use of lead pipes. Many of the lead and galvanized lines were installed in Coatesville during the World War II Era.
Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The young and old are especially vulnerable.
At this time, 24 percent of customer-owned service line materials in the company’s Coatesville service territory remain unknown. Pennsylvania American Water is encouraging customers to help complete a service line inventory, either by filling out our online survey or by requesting assistance. If needed, the water company can schedule an inspection to help determine the material.
Representatives wearing safety vests and hard hats from construction contractor Brubacher will also be knocking on doors.
Since 2021, Pennsylvania American Water has replaced nearly 4,000 customer-owned service lines statewide, including just under 100 replacements within the Coatesville district.
Here is a link to the water company’s website https://www.amwater.com/paaw/water-quality/Lead-and-Drinking-Water