Department of Water Management

Chicago has the largest inventory of lead water service lines in the U.S., with over 400,000 lines. Replacing each line costs an average of $31,000, more than six times the EPA’s national estimate of $4,700. High costs are attributed to inefficient contracts, permitting delays, and fragmented replacement strategies, with total replacement estimated at over $12 billion under a federal mandate.

Bronzeville businesses are still cleaning up after severe storms and a water main break caused by recent violent weather. The storms, which included 70 mph winds and a tornado, led to power outages and flooding, affecting stores like Nitro Nostalgia Ice Cream and Lilypad Acai Bar, with some facing financial losses and closures.

A $22 million federal grant will replace over 650 lead water pipes in Austin, announced by Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin. The funding aims to address Austin's high concentration of lead service lines, which pose significant health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women.