EPA, Ypsilanti, Mich., collaborate to improve drinking water with lead pipe replacement initiative

(UI) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a collaboration with Ypsilanti Community Utilities Authority in Michigan, as part of EPA’s Get the Lead Out Initiative.

Under the Get the Lead Out Initiative, EPA will support the Ypsilanti Community Utilities Authority in identifying lead pipes, developing lead service line replacement plans, increasing community outreach and education efforts, and applying for funding.

This partnership will help identify legacy lead pipes that connect homes’ drinking water and accelerate lead pipe replacements to protect public health. EPA’s Get the Lead Out Initiative will provide technical assistance to approximately 200 communities nationwide.

In adults, lead can cause increased blood pressure, heart disease, decreased kidney function, and cancer. In children, it can severely harm mental and physical development, slowing down learning, and irreversibly damaging the brain.

Many underserved communities lack the resources to plan for lead pipe replacement and access federal investments. Technical assistance provided through the Get the Lead Out Initiative will help ensure that no community is left behind in the opportunity to replace lead pipes.

“YCUA appreciates the opportunity to collaborate with EPA on the GLO initiative which will accelerate our goal of 100% lead-free pipes,” said Yypsilanti Community Utilities Authority Executive Director Luther Blackburn.

“The science is clear, there is no safe level of lead and protecting children and families from lead exposure is at the top of EPA’s priority list,” said EPA Acting Assistant Administrator for Water Bruno Pigott. “I am thrilled to be in Ypsilanti today to meet the local workforce that is identifying and replacing lead pipes in the community.”

 

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