New Orleans accelerates lead pipe identification and replacement with rebid program

The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) has re-opened bidding for a contractor to oversee a federally funded program aimed at locating and replacing lead service lines across the city, as the utility works to accelerate compliance with federal drinking water standards and reduce public health risks. 

According to Fox 8 News, the selected contractor will manage systemwide identification, mapping and replacement of lead pipes serving residential and commercial customers. SWBNO estimates it has already identified about 15,000 lead service lines, but believes as many as 50% to 60% of connections across the city could contain lead. A 2024 study found that 88% of homes tested in New Orleans showed some level of lead in drinking water, underscoring the scale of the replacement effort.

The project will prioritize disadvantaged neighborhoods and requires replacement of all lead service lines serving schools and daycare facilities by the end of the year. SWBNO has already completed roughly 300 inspections at school sites as part of the broader initiative, Fox 8 reported. The utility is also providing mapping tools and filter programs to help residents identify and mitigate potential exposure while replacement work progresses.

Bidding for the program was re-opened following a challenge to the initial procurement process. Utility officials said the revised bid is intended to ensure a transparent selection process while keeping the lead service line replacement program on track. Once a contractor is selected, work will proceed across multiple neighborhoods as SWBNO advances one of the largest lead pipe identification and removal efforts in its history.

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