EAST LANSING, Mich. – The City of East Lansing is currently seeking the help of property owners in updating its water service line and water meter records by taking a quick online survey: http://www.cityofeastlansing.com/WaterSurvey. The survey is being conducted in order for City staff to plan future meter replacement and to help City staff and property owners identify water service pipes that may need repair or replacement in the future.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently considering new regulations that could require the removal of all lead from water distribution systems across the country. In an effort to be proactive about the potential changes to federal regulations, the City of East Lansing is seeking to create an inventory of the type of pipe material used in the water lines servicing properties (homes, rental units, businesses and commercial properties) throughout the local community.
“While the water supply provided to East Lansing homes is regularly tested for lead and has consistently been in compliance with current regulations, we are aware that regulations may be changing in the future and would like to get ahead of what might be coming,” said East Lansing Infrastructure Administrator Ron Lacasse. “We are asking for the community’s help in updating our records and identifying pipes that may need to be addressed under any potential new regulations.”
Prior to taking the survey, property owners are asked to take a photo of the water service where it enters the home/property (inside) and determine the type of pipe coming into the home/property. Photo examples and a list of pipe material characteristics are provided at http://www.cityofeastlansing.com/WaterSurvey.
Property owners with a galvanized pipe may have a lead gooseneck connecting their pipes to the City water main. If the EPA’s regulations were to change, it may be required for the City to replace the gooseneck and the property owner to replace the pipe entering their home/property.
Community members can call the East Lansing Department of Public Works at (517) 337-9459 with questions and/or to request a free inspection.