Cincinnati City Council Approves $15 Million Capital Plan to Accelerate Lead Water Pipe Replacement

CINCINNATI, OH — The Cincinnati City Council voted 9–0 to approve a $15 million capital appropriation and utility contract authorizing Greater Cincinnati Water Works (GCWW) to fully replace 3,500 legacy lead service lines over the next 18 months.

Eradicating Lead Contamination from Drinking Water Infrastructure

The funding measure provides 100% municipal subsidies to cover both the public and private sides of lead service pipe replacement, completely eliminating upfront contractor costs for property owners. The program prioritizes homes with pregnant women, infants, and licensed home child care providers in Price Hill, Avondale, and Over-the-Rhine.

Mayor Aftab Pureval and council members stated that protecting children from toxic lead exposure is a core moral obligation and a non-negotiable municipal public health priority.

Public Health Coalitions and Water Quality Oversight

Cincinnati Children's Hospital medical leaders commended the city for accelerating pipe replacements, emphasizing that no level of lead exposure is safe for developing brains.

GCWW crews will deploy trenchless boring technology to minimize lawn and street pavement disruptions.

Construction Rollout Schedule

Heavy pipe replacement contracts will be awarded to local certified plumbing contractors in October 2026.