The recent Sun-Times editorial on the pace of lead service line replacement demonstrated a disturbing lack of understanding about what the Chicago Department of Water Management is already doing to protect our drinking water. Since 1994, DWM has been in compliance with EPA regulations due to our use of phosphate-based corrosion control to prevent lead from leaching into drinking water. We know that it is working, based on almost 30 years of testing and research approved by the EPA.
We are committed to doing the work in a sustainable, environmentally sound, fiscally responsible manner that protects our residents’ health and provides a strong foundation for future growth. It is also very important for residents to know that lead in the ground does not automatically mean there are elevated levels of lead in your drinking water.
