Syracuse's Lead Pipe Replacement Faces Delays

Syracuse officials have acknowledged that efforts to replace lead water pipes are progressing slower than anticipated. The city had aimed to replace 3,000 lead pipes this year but managed to replace only about 700. At this rate, the project could take over a decade to complete, despite initial promises to resolve the issue within five years.

Lead exposure poses significant health risks, including high blood pressure and learning disabilities. In Syracuse, over 25 percent of households have high lead levels in their water, disproportionately affecting Black children, who are nearly six times more likely than white children to have elevated lead levels in their blood, according to NYCLU.

The city’s water commissioner, Robert Brandt, admitted that the pace of replacement has been slower than expected. Brandt explained that logistical challenges, such as coordinating with road construction and gaining access to private properties, have contributed to the delays. The city has hired two contractors solely focused on pipe replacement and plans to target homes with partial replacements in 2026.

Despite the setbacks, the city is committed to addressing the lead issue. Syracuse has bonded and received grants totaling tens of millions of dollars for future replacements. The city is also working with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local health departments to ensure compliance with new regulations, as detailed on the City of Syracuse's website.

The city has initiated a comprehensive inventory of water service lines to better understand the scope of the problem. In addition, Syracuse is distributing free water filters to households with young children, pregnant women, and other at-risk individuals to mitigate exposure.