City of Rochester
News Release
Mayor Malik D. Evans Launches “Get the Lead Out
Together” Campaign
(Monday, May 15, 2023) – Mayor Malik
D. Evans launched the “Get the Lead Out Together” campaign today asking city
residents to play a part in the City’s plan to identify water service lines
that may be composed of lead-containing materials.
The
campaign is part of a comprehensive effort the City is taking to upgrade its
water infrastructure. $43.3 million has already been allocated for replacing
lead-related water service lines. The City is recognized as a national leader
in this area; Mayor Evans was invited by the White House to participate in a
national lead pipe summit in Washington, D.C. earlier this year.
There
are currently an estimated 21,763 public side (outside) and 4,500 private side
(inside) water service lines potentially in need of eventual replacement. 60
percent of these lines are in disadvantaged neighborhoods.
By
identifying and reporting the type of water service line that comes into their
homes, residents can aid in the creation of a comprehensive inventory and help
replacement efforts progress. To find out if you have an unknown water service
line go to maps.cityofrochester.gov/propinfo
enter your address and click the water tab.
“The
City recognizes the importance of removing lead and galvanized steel service
lines in our water distribution system,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “Once you
have identified and reported your water service line, lend a hand to a
neighbor, family member, or friend that might need help to do the same. We
won’t get this done overnight, but together, we can work to ensure that every
resident, no matter what street they live on, has access to clean, safe
drinking water.”
The
City is currently investing significantly in lead service water line
replacements and is supplementing local monies with Federal funds allocated to
it through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The City will continue to seek
additional Federal funds to provide needed resources to accelerate the effort
and complete all the replacements needed.
To
check your water service line, follow the step-by-step instructions on how to
test and report your water service line at www.CityofRochester.gov/GetTheLeadOut.
If you are unable to do the test, schedule an appointment with the City Water
Bureau to do it for you. To schedule an appointment, call or text (585)
866-9258 or email GettheLeadOut@CityofRochester.gov.
If
you are concerned about your water quality, you can have your water tested free
of charge by calling (585) 428-6680 x1 or emailing watertest@cityofrochester.gov,
learn more at www.cityofrochester.gov/drinkingwatersafety.
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