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A recent report by the New York League of Conservation Voters Education Fund has identified Kingston as one of the top 15 cities in the state with a high concentration of lead water service pipes. Kingston ranks eighth, with a 35 percent concentration rate of lead pipes. This report highlights the ongoing issue of lead contamination in water, which can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure and neurological effects.
Approximately 3.1 million people in New York receive their drinking water through confirmed or suspected lead pipes, accounting for 15 percent of the state's population. The New York League of Conservation Voters has released an interactive map to help homeowners identify if their water service lines contain lead.
Efforts to replace these hazardous pipes are underway, with federal rules mandating the replacement of all lead service lines by 2037. However, the process faces challenges, including logistical and financial obstacles. Some communities have begun replacing lead pipes, but there is no uniform state guideline on who bears the cost or what materials should be used for replacements.
According to news reports, the lack of funding and clear guidelines has made it difficult for many areas to address the issue effectively. The New York League of Conservation Voters advocates for more state support and standardized procedures to ensure equitable and efficient removal of lead pipes across the state.
As reported by the NYLCV, New York State has enacted several programs to tackle the lead pipe problem, but the demand for replacements heavily outweighs the available funds. The Lead Pipe Replacement Act, introduced in April 2025, aims to ensure the complete removal of lead service lines by 2037, with no direct cost to homeowners.
Residents are encouraged to use the online map to check their service lines and take preventive measures, such as using lead-certified filtration cartridges and running water after long periods of non-use, to minimize exposure.