Cincinnati Utility Faces Challenges With Lead-Line Replacement Program

While most cities in the United States don’t pay for the entire cost of replacing private lead water-service lines, which have been identified as a significant health hazard, Cincinnati officials have opted to put public health ahead of financial considerations. In 2021, the Greater Cincinnati Water Works, which provides water to about 1.1 million customers, decided to pay the full cost of replacing lead service lines that run between water mains and customers’ homes and businesses. A series of rate increases in 2021 generated additional revenue to expand the program, which previously paid for only part of the cost, says Kevin