RPU Lead Pipe Replacement Program Gains Momentum

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - Rochester Public Utilities continues to make progress in its efforts to eliminate the remaining lead water service lines in the city.

RPU Provides Update on Lead Service Line Program

RPU General Manager Tim McCollough provided an update on the Lead Water Service Line Replacement Program during his regular monthly appearance with Andy Brownell on News-Talk 1340 KROC-AM and 96.9 FM for RPU Unplugged on Rochester Today.

Click on the link below to listen to the entire program.

Federal Funding Supports Rochester Lead Pipe Removal

McCollough says Rochester Public Utilities has been awarded close to $3 million in federal grant funding to identify properties still using lead water service lines and to pay for their replacement. Overall, the State of Minnesota received $500 million.

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So far, RPU has identified approximately 450 properties still using lead water service lines in Rochester. McCollough says intensive reviews of service records and other investigative work have determined that nearly 1,000 other potentially affected properties do not have the problematic pipes, which pose a significant health risk, particularly for children.

Program Prioritizes Homes With Children

McCollough says RPU has a goal of replacing 120 lead water service lines by the end of this year, with the work currently focused on homes where children live and the occupants have lower income levels. He notes that additional funding will be needed from the federal or state governments to continue the replacement program in future years and meet the federal goal of eliminating all lead water service lines nationwide within 10 years.

Homeowners Face High Costs Without Assistance

The RPU program is designed to completely cover the cost for affected homeowners. McCollough says the overall cost of replacing a single water service line ranges from $20,000 to $30,000.

McCollough says many property owners are unaware that the service line, which runs from the home to the RPU water main in the middle of the street, is their responsibility. He says most are surprised to learn that when a problem arises, they can face significant repair bills for work that often requires digging up lawns to access the water pipes.

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That's why RPU offers a Service Assured Program covering the service line and the water valve located inside customers' homes. McCollough explains that customers are automatically enrolled in the Service Assured Program but have the option to cancel their enrollment.