Biden Sped Up Mandate to Replace Chicago’s Toxic Lead Water Pipes
Faster Timetable
President Joe Biden has put Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson on a faster timetable to replace the city’s more than 400,000 lead service lines, cutting in half the deadline. According to Biden’s new mandate, Chicago must now complete the replacement process within approximately 20 years.
Cost Concerns
The estimated cost of this project is over $14 billion, and city officials are concerned about not having enough funds to cover the expenses. As they acknowledge the brain-damaging effects of lead on children, Johnson is struggling to close a $223 million budget gap by the end of the year and a nearly $1 billion shortfall in next year’s budget.
Funding Issues
The city’s Chief Operating Officer, John Roberson, has expressed concerns about finding funding for the replacement project, citing a current budget situation where “it’s like another unfunded mandate” according to South Side Alderman Anthony Beale. Meanwhile, Erik Olson, a senior strategist with the Natural Resources Defense Council, stressed the importance of assertive action from Chicago, urging the city to explore alternative funding options, including seeking federal funds through the Pritzker administration’s environmental agency.
Ambiguity Surrounding Lead Pipe Issue
The Chicago Department of Water Management budgeted $169 million for lead pipe replacements this year, planning to replace approximately 5,100 lines. Mayor Johnson’s administration has, however, received only some federal funding so far. Furthermore, Randy Conner, commissioner of the Department of Water Management, highlighted that the city is searching for additional resources to accelerate this process, saying that they “will continue to work with our partners to turn over every rock to identify resources for this work.” Meanwhile, the idea of increasing water rates to finance the replacements is also under consideration.
Mother of Three Asks City to Speed Up Replacing Lead Pipes
Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Sun-Times – Mayor Brandon Johnson speaks at a news conference announcing a $336 million loan from President Joe Biden’s administration to replace lead service lines last November.
Avoiding Rate Hikes
A city water rate increase to pay for the replacement project is unlikely to be implemented, according to the chairman of the City Council Committee on Economic and Capital Development, Alderman Gilbert Villegas, stating that the idea would likely be “a non-starter” due to existing water costs and taxes.
Conclusion
In the midst of a complex funding dilemma, Chicago must accelerate efforts to replace its hazardous lead pipes. Despite Mayor Johnson’s concerns regarding a tight budget, local and federal agencies are encouraging bold action. While additional funds are essential for success, the imperative for prioritizing public health is unequivocal.
FAQs
What is the current estimated cost of replacing Chicago’s lead pipes?
What is the current deadline for replacing lead pipes in Chicago?
Is it possible for the city to find funding for this project?
Over $14 billion.
About 20 years.
Preliminary plans indicate difficulty finding sufficient funding; local officials are actively exploring additional resource options, including seeking federal funds through the Pritzker administration’s environmental agency.
