The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was joined by Malden Mayor Gary Christenson, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark, Secretary Rebecca Tepper, MassDEP Commissioner Bonnie Heiple, and other Massachusetts leaders on May 20, 2024 to observe the progress of the city's $1.4 million Bipartisan Infrastructure Law grant. The grant is being used to replace lead pipes and ensure safe drinking water in Malden.
EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash emphasized the importance of this initiative: "Our goal is simple, yet essential: to assure that everyone has clean, safe drinking water. That's why identifying and replacing lead service lines is crucial; it can protect our communities, especially the most vulnerable, from lead exposure."
Malden has been working with Mass DEP for approximately two decades to document and eliminate lead pipes within its distribution system. The city has completed 265 test pit explorations to identify lead service lines and aims to classify 1600 unknown services within their system.
Democratic Whip Katherine Clark expressed her support for the project: "Every family deserves access to clean drinking water, yet dangerous lead pipes can still be found in homes across America — including right here in Massachusetts' Fifth District." She added that she will continue fighting until every kitchen faucet runs clean and clear.
Commissioner Bonnie Heiple of the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) praised the investment by the Biden-Harris Administration: "This investment positions Massachusetts to continue removing lead from historic drinking water infrastructure," she said.
Mayor Christenson expressed gratitude for the funding that will allow for the replacement of both public and private sides of lead service lines. He also thanked Director Yem Lip of the Engineering Department along with MassDEP and EPA for their partnerships in creating healthier environments for families.
On May 2,2024, EPA announced over $50 million of funding for President Biden's Investing in America agenda to help Massachusetts identify and replace lead service lines, preventing exposure to lead in drinking water.
Other significant awards in MA include the Boston Water and Sewer Commission receiving $4,698,888 through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Fall River Water Department receiving $4,150,000, and the Methuen Water Department receiving $870,000.
For more information on EPA's Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and state-by-state allotment of 2024 funding, visit EPA's Drinking Water website. To identify lead service lines in your home, check out EPA's Protect Your Tap: A Quick Check for Lead online guide.
