A new map from the Natural Resources Defense Council based on EPA survey data reveals hot spots for lead water pipes in the U.S.
This visualization helps identify where lead pipes are located, providing information for allocating $15 billion in federal funds to replace them. The map highlights that lead pipes are found in all 50 states, with Illinois, Ohio, New York, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Florida among the most affected. Major cities like Chicago, Cleveland and New York City report particularly high numbers of lead service lines, though many cities still have unknown pipe materials, suggesting the problem may be worse than currently reported.
The data emphasizes the urgent need for federal and state governments to continue to address the lead pipe problem. Some cities, such as Cocoa, Florida, and Conway, Arkansas, report unexpectedly high numbers of lead pipes.
For more information and to view the map, click here.
