Lead pipe testing in Troy surpasses 50%
TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- Just over 50% of private water pipes in Troy have been tested for lead over the last four months. Water pipes were tested by various city officials, community groups, and volunteers in a door-to-door canvasing event, educating residents about the city's Lead Pipe Replacement Program.
The city is working to educate homeowners about the dangers of drinking water from lead pipes and the replacement program. Homeowners can have their pipes tested and replaced for free by calling the Department of Public Utilities at (518) 237-0611. A free Brita water filter is given to those who verify their pipes with the city.
Mayor Carmella Mantello pledged to replace all of the city's lead pipes in four years. She said going door-to-door is something the city has to do to teach residents the importance of lead pipe testing. "We plan on hosting a few more canvassing and public education events throughout the year to really drive up those numbers," she said.
Troy City Council President Sue Steele said on Tuesday, May 7 that she's concerned about the replacement program's response rates slowing down. Steele said that the inventory of lead pipes stood at 48% in December 2023. She is pushing for what she calls a "more aggressive" approach.