Aqua to start multi-year lead service line replacement program i - WFMJ.com News weather sports for Youngstown-Warren Ohio

Aqua is gearing up to start a multi-year Lead Service Line Replacement Program with a lead service line replacement project for the City of Struthers.

The $4.8 million project will replace 542 lead and some galvanized service lines in Struthers. These line replacements will occur over the next 13 months. Owners of properties included in this initial round were mailed a letter detailing the replacement process.

This project is partially funded by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Water Supply Revolving Loan Account.

Research has linked lead with serious health complications, particularly in young children.

Back in May, Ohio Environmental Council (OEC) Action Fund Drinking Water Manager Annalisa Rocca was quoted on this topic saying elevated levels of lead in the blood can cause impaired brain development and lower intelligence for young children, as well as increased risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and kidney and nervous system problems for adults.

Aqua Struthers Division manager Jennifer Johnson says for this reason, lead line replacement is important, but it can be expensive, so the company is stepping in to help.

Aqua owns the portion of the service line pipes between the main and curb stop, but the remainder of the pipe is the responsibility of the property owner. Johnson says it will replace both its part and the property owner's part at no charge.

Once the contractor confirms the material of both sides of the service line, the property owner must sign a license agreement if their side is determined to need replacement.