Older cities all over the United States are dealing with an issue that has the potential to have a negative impact for generations to come. If something is done, then cities like Buffalo can be set up to serve their populations better for decades.

For the last few years, Buffalo has been removing and replacing thousands of lead water lines buried underground in the city. City officials have been trying to get ahead of the concerns with the water system in the city, as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has been issuing an order to municipalities that is sure to have a major impact across the country.

READ MORE: Buffalo Needs Your Help To Replace Thousands Of Lead Water Lines

On Tuesday, October 8, 2024, the EPA issued its final rule and is now ordering cities in New York State within the next 10 years.

Everyone in New York deserves access to clean and safe drinking water from their taps. This new rule, combined with significant funding, will drive efforts to eliminate all lead service lines and other lead components in public drinking water systems... Communities most affected by lead in drinking water are often those already facing numerous challenges. Parents should never have to worry about their children consuming water contaminated with lead, regardless of where they live. This rule mandates that systems develop replacement plans prioritizing the populations most disproportionately impacted by lead.
-Lisa F. Garcia, EPA Regional Administrator

The city of Buffalo started its lead water line replacement program well before the EPA rule was put in effect. City officials have been saying for a while that they need residents' help identifying where the lines are since they cross from public to private property. It's estimated that there are more than 40,000 lead water lines feeding homes in Buffalo.

Buffalo Water Board
Buffalo Water Board
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Buffalo Water has been a committed partner in the White House's Get the Lead Out initiative, reinforcing our longstanding dedication to addressing this critical public health issue. Since the launch of our Replace Old Lead Lines (ROLL) program in 2016, including free water quality sampling for all customers, we have been proactive in mitigating the risks associated with lead service lines. Last year, we took a significant step forward by releasing our public-facing Lead Service Line Inventory map and establishing partnerships with community organizations for boots-on-the-ground engagement. The EPA's recent announcement underscores the urgency of this work, and we remain confident that continued federal investment will be crucial in helping cities like Buffalo ensure the safety and well-being of our residents.
-Oluwole "OJ" McFoy, Chairman of the Buffalo Water Board

Vice President Harris Participates In Lead Pipes Summit
Bloomberg via Getty Images
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Under normal circumstances, a project of this type could bankrupt a city, but federal officials have made millions of dollars available to help support the work. More than $116 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is coming to the Empire State to help make the water system safer.

This is good news, as Buffalo is facing a few lean years financially, so these federal funds should help quite a bit.

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The city of Buffalo has a map of every water service line and what is known (or not known) about it. You can view the map, take the property service, and sign up for help on the Buffalo Water website or call 311.

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