BINGHAMTON (WBNG) — The City of Binghamton has been awarded more than $663,000 in state funding to replace lead service lines used for residential drinking water, according to Mayor Rich David’s Office.
Officials say the Binghamton Water Department will identify properties with older service lines containing lead to target for replacement.
When old water pipes containing lead corrode, the lead can seep into the water and contaminate it, according to the mayor’s office.
Officials say lead exposure can be especially harmful to young children and that lead poisoning can impact a child’s growth, behavior, and ability to learn.
“With this funding, the City will take another step to ensure residents have access to clean and safe drinking water for decades to come,” Mayor David said in a statement.
“Replacing the antiquated water lines that were built with many of Binghamton’s older homes will help lower residents’ risk of lead exposure and protect the public health of our City.” In a news release, Mayor David’s office noted that the City is responsible for the portion of a water service line that runs from water main line to the curb box, and that homeowners are responsible for the portion of the service line that runs from the curb box to the water meter.
According to Governor Andrew Cuomo’s office, Binghamton is one of 26 municipalities in New York State to receive funding for residential lead service line replacement.
The effort is part of New York’s Clean Water Infrastructure Act of 2017.