National collaborative honors excellence in lead pipe replacement

(Washington, D.C. – June 23, 2026) The Lead Service Line Replacement Collaborative (LSLRC) recognized 16 people and programs that have demonstrated excellence in one or more facets of lead service line (LSL) replacement. The “Honoring Excellence in LSL Replacement” initiative, which held its recognition ceremony today alongside the American Water Works Association’s annual convention, aims to spotlight the many communities working to remove LSLs from their water systems and reduce the health risks of lead exposure. 

“Replacing toxic LSLs is imperative to ensure our children can lead healthy lives and reach their full potential. That’s why the Collaborative is keeping the spotlight on the dedicated crews and communities that are making it happen, especially communities that began replacing their LSLs voluntarily before there was a legal obligation to do so.”– Roya Alkafaji, Manager, Healthy Communities, Environmental Defense Fund and LSL Replacement Collaborative Steering Committee member

The U.S. EPA’s latest estimate is that over 4 million LSLs remain connected to water systems in the United States. There is no safe level of lead. It is especially harmful for young children, affecting brain development and contributing to lower IQs. Launched in the wake of the Flint Michigan Water Crisis, the Collaborative is a consortium of 28 national organizations committed to accelerating LSL replacement by providing how-to resources, amplifying good practices, and facilitating cross-sector collaboration. 

“LSL replacement is a complex. It involves communicating with the public about health risks, engaging homeowners, coordinated planning, and thoughtful program design. A water utility can do some of that, but we see much more effective programs when they partner with public health organizations and community groups to leverage each other’s strengths. Today’s award recipients are real-life examples of the dedication that so many types of stakeholders are bringing to this task.” – Lynn Thorp, President, Clean Water Action and LSL Replacement Collaborative Steering Committee member

This recognition event marks the Collaborative’s 10^th anniversary. Over that time, water systems and communities across the country have made great strides in replacing LSLs. Awardees were recognized for excelling in areas that align with the Collaborative’s principles for LSL replacement, including technical efficiency, fiscal savvy, community engagement, and equal access to services. The ceremony also honored individuals who have demonstrated longstanding leadership in the space.

Honorees

Honoree Quotes

“We’re honored by the recognition […] it validates not just our model but our results, which have proven to be significantly faster, more cost effective and at a level of accountability and transparency that is unmatched in this industry.” – Shawn Kerachsky, President and Chief Executive Officer, Community Infrastructure Partners

"It takes a community working together to tackle the legacy of LSLs […] The goal of our program was to do the right thing, and we're excited to be part of the national movement working — together as one — toward a lead-free future." – Alexis Woodrow, Denver Water's manager for the Lead Reduction Program

“This work is too important not to do, and we’re proud of the progress we’ve made replacing more than 12,500 lead service lines so far while continuing to push toward a lead-free future for all District residents.” – David L. Gadis, CEO and General Manager, DC Water

“The power of collaboration, transparency, and meaningful community engagement in advancing LSL replacements and protecting public health within our community is what makes the Grand Rapids community so special.” – Wayne Jernberg, Utilities Director, City of Grand Rapids

"This honor reflects the heart of our Lead Free Memphis initiative and the families driving it forward. Together, we are proving that every neighborhood deserves clean, safe drinking water, and that getting lead pipes out of the ground is how we protect our children and build healthier communities.” – LaTricea D. Adams, Founder CEO & President, Young, Gifted & Green

"LeadCare Cook County has provided lead service line replacements to nearly 300 child care providers in suburban Cook County, ensuring thousands of children have enjoyed access to safer, healthier drinking water. " – Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board President

“We are deeply honored to receive this award for Policy Innovation and Leadership. New Jersey’s success in tackling one of the most persistent public health challenges demonstrates the power of data-driven policy, cross-sector collaboration, and relentless focus on equity.” – Deandrah Cameron, Policy Manager, New Jersey Future 

“This award recognizes the progress we have made as a city in improving how LSL replacement work is planned, coordinated, and delivered. We are proud of that progress and committed to continuing this work for Milwaukee residents.” – Patrick Pauly, Superintendent, Milwaukee Water Works

“The secret to Trenton Water Works’ (TWW) fiscal savvy is a relentless staff, supportive TWW Director and City Administration, a dedicated City Council, and a super generous NJ Infrastructure Bank. This is why TWW can offer free LSL replacements.” – Noemi de la Puente, Principal Engineer, Trenton Water Works

“We are honored to receive this recognition from the LSL Replacement Collaborative. It is confirmation that our Lead Reduction Program is successfully protecting the health of the people we serve; thank you to our dedicated staff whose hard work made it possible.”  – Kelly Williams, Commissioner, Wilmington Department of Public Works

“For the past three decades, I have worked to build partnerships with local and state public health officials and with local and national advocacy groups to understand and clearly communicate the risks of lead in drinking water, and ways to mitigate that risk.” – Stephen Estes-Smargiassi, Executive Director, Massachusetts Water Resources Authority 

“It is a great honor to be recognized as the Community Ambassador by the LSLR Collaborative. […] In Newark, we had the political will to get our 20,000-plus lead lines replaced as quickly and efficiently as possible.” – Kareem Adeem, Director, City of Newark's Department of Water & Sewer Utilities

“The phrase “it takes a village” has never been more appropriate and I’m proud of how my team, water systems, and so many in this industry have stepped up to the challenge.” – Sandra Kutzing, Senior Vice President and Lead and Copper Strategy Leader, CDM Smith

“Every child, every family, and every resident deserves access to safe, clean drinking water without the risk of lead exposure. In Maywood, we understand that investing in critical infrastructure is an investment in our people, our neighborhoods, and our future." – Honorable Nathaniel George Booker, Mayor, Village of Maywood