City schools test water-fountain filtration system.
The Baltimore City Public Schools is testing a pilot program to install new water fountains and filter systems in schools.
The district is testing the waters with a pilot program that will run from August through December and will eventually help the district save money.
In 2007, Baltimore school officials said no one should drink the water from fountains because of concerns over lead contamination.
In 2007, bottled water cost the city $339,621, and this year, the projected cost is $525,000.
Water at the sites will be tested before and after the systems are installed, and it will be compared to bottled water.
Scroggins said he believes the district is getting one of the best filtration systems available.
"It helps to reduce and eliminate lead, minerals, microbials, anything that can be hazardous to students or staff drinking it," Scroggins said.
Ruth Ann Norton, president and CEO of the Green and Healthy Homes Initiative, an organization that works to stop lead poisoning, said this is a move that is long overdue.
"We’re glad they are taking action; however, we think they should shrink the trial period for what is known, sound technology and move this forward for every child," Norton said.