If you haven't started your water system's lead service line inventory, as part of the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule Revisions, Horner & Shifrin is here to assist!

The US Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) regulations on lead in drinking water have evolved with the new Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI). The LCRI builds on the earlier Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) and sets a new nationwide goal to replace all lead service lines.

Significant federal funding is available to help communities meet these requirements. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provides $15 billion over five years specifically for the replacement of lead service lines, with additional funding available to support the identification, documentation, and removal of these pipes.

While the initial inventory deadline of October 16, 2024, has passed, the requirements for water systems are now more comprehensive. Under the LCRI, a new compliance date of November 1, 2027, is set for submitting a more detailed baseline inventory and a comprehensive lead service line replacement plan. All water systems must also plan to replace their lead and galvanized requiring replacement (GRR) service lines within 10 years of this date.

Horner & Shifrin’s expertise extends beyond the assessment and design of water systems. Our engineering staff have assisted communities across the Midwest in securing funding for their projects through federal and state grant programs. Our expert GIS staff are adept at creating customized geodatabase solutions that can be expanded to suit your needs. H&S can provide:

• Assistance identifying funding sources and applying for grant/loan funding
• Development of GIS systems to track and manage your inventory
• Performance of preliminary records review
• Assistance with the development of residential survey flyers, websites for customers to upload in-house service line photos, and water sample kit requests
• Assistance with the development of bid packages for meter investigations and excavation contracts

The same quality of service we provide during the inventory stage can be extended into the design and replacement of identified lead and galvanized steel requiring replacement service lines. H&S can assist with:

• Development of a lead service line replacement plan (LSLRP) to meet LCRI requirements
• Replacement funding, design, bidding, and construction administration

With the EPA and state deadlines for full compliance on the horizon, it’s not too soon to begin preparing. Reach out to Horner & Shifrin today to see why we are the Right Choice to assist in developing your lead service line inventory and replacement program.