Approval granted for fixing 18,000 Flint, Michigan water lines.
DETROIT (AP) — A federal judge approved a deal Tuesday to replace water lines at 18,000 homes in Flint, Michigan, marking a permanent fix to overcome the disastrous decision in 2014 to draw water from a river without treating it to prevent lead contamination.
Flint will be responsible for replacing lead and galvanized-steel lines that bring water into homes.
Pipes at more than 700 homes have been replaced so far.
“Flint proved that even while poisoned, we’re not just victims,” said resident Melissa Mays, a plaintiff in the case.
While under the control of state-appointed financial managers, the city tapped the Flint River as its water source while a new pipeline was being built to Lake Huron.
Michigan will continue to provide water filters, but the state can start closing free bottled water sites in Flint depending on demand and results of water quality tests.
U.S. District Judge David Lawson approved the settlement, which was the result of weeks of negotiations involving a court-appointed mediator.
There will be no cost for replacement cartridges or household testing kits.
There will be tests for lead in the Flint system every six months until one year after the replacement of water lines.