Detroit Replacing Lead Water Lines in Several Neighborhoods in Late Spring/Early Summer 2022

In late spring and summer 2022, Lead service lines are being replaced in Detroit neighborhoods according to the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD). Removing lead pipes is one of the most effective ways to reduce exposure to lead in drinking water. Lead can cause serious health problems if it enters your body from drinking water. 

Neighborhoods Scheduled for Lead Line Replacement:

• Cornerstone Village Water

• Jefferson Chalmers

• New Center

• Virginia Park

• North Rosedale Park

• Evergreen-Lahser

• McNichols

• Miller Grove

• Minock Park

• Riverdale

• Rosedale Park

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) will be replacing the city’s water main pipes along with water service lines that provide water to homes. There are two portions of the service line. The first portion, which is owned by the city, is the responsibility of the city, the second portion, the private side, is the responsibility of the homeowner. DWSD will be replacing the city’s portion of the service line if lead pipes are detected. If the private portion of the service line also contains lead it will be replaced by DWSD if consent has been received from the homeowner. Due to the increase in lead levels that they cause, partial lead service line replacements are illegal within the state of Michigan. If a home has a water service line that is partially replaced, water service will be shut off to that home.

If construction crews are replacing pipes at or near your residence, we recommend taking the precautionary steps to FLUSH, FILTER, and use COLD water for drinking, cooking, and baby formula. Check out Freshwater Future’s lead toolkit for tips on how to reduce your exposure. This increased lead risk during construction is due to the vibrations from construction which can loosen lead particles in pipes nearby. 

To find out where replacements will be occurring in Detroit and additional guidance for residents, view DWSD’s customer alert online informational packet.

If you have any questions or concerns about the quality of the tap water within your home, email the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department’s Lead Safety Hotline: dwsd-publicaffairs@detroitmi.gov. To learn about the programs Freshwater Future has available to assist residents on lead issues, visit our website or call 231.348.8200.