Delaware secures $28 million to replace lead pipes in bipartisan infrastructure effort
(UI) — Delaware's water infrastructure is getting a major boost with a $28.65 million award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to identify and replace lead pipes across the state. U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons, along with Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester and Governor John Carney, announced the funding.
This allocation, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, championed by Carper, Coons, and Blunt Rochester, marks a crucial step in ensuring safe and clean drinking water for all Delawareans. The funding is part of a broader initiative spanning five years to address lead pipes in drinking water lines.
Municipalities, water utilities, and community drinking water systems in Delaware will benefit from the funding, which will be disbursed through the State Revolving Loan fund process. Administered by the Delaware Division of Public Health and Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, project requests will be accepted and approved before the EPA releases the funds annually.
Senator Carper, Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, emphasized the importance of this funding in safeguarding public health. "Every Delawarean should have the simple peace of mind that the water in their own homes is safe and clean to use and drink. That starts with replacing the toxic lead pipes still servicing too many homes and businesses up and down our state," he stated.
Senator Coons highlighted the positive impact the investment will have on public health, ensuring that communities have access to clean drinking water. "Delawareans continue to feel the benefits of President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this time by reducing the risk of lead poisoning," he remarked.
Echoing the sentiment, Representative Blunt Rochester underscored the significance of the funding in improving living conditions for Delaware families. "We must do everything we can to ensure that all Delawareans live in a home that is safe and healthy — one that is free from lead pipes," she asserted.
Governor Carney expressed gratitude for the funding, emphasizing ongoing efforts to improve the state's water infrastructure. "Investments are being made on an ongoing basis to find lead pipes in drinking water systems and replace them through grants and loans to providers," he explained. "Our country’s water system is becoming safer and more reliable as a result of this funding."
The investment represents a crucial step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of Delaware's residents, reflecting the commitment of federal and state authorities to address critical infrastructure needs.
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