July 2025

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6 Lessons from Removing Lead Service Lines in North Jersey 

When Passaic Valley Water Commission (PVWC) set out to replace known lead and galvanized steel service lines across Passaic County, New Jersey, they knew it would take more than construction crews. What's powering their success?

1. Don’t start without the data.

Before digging, PVWC tackled incomplete records with field verification and GIS support to turn unknowns into known materials. Getting this data right upfront was crucial to save time, money and confusion later.

2. Communication isn’t a side task, it’s the work.

The team prioritized clear, accessible messaging in pieces like door hangers and multilingual press notices. Explaining the process in plain language (and in all languages spoken in the community) helped residents feel more informed and included.

3. Hire the right messengers.

PVWC brought in local Spanish-speaking canvassers who knew the neighborhoods and could build trust with water customers face-to-face. The local knowledge helped to drive sign-ups and strengthened relationships.

4. Build a smart, visual toolbox.

Using tools like ArcGIS and Power BI, the team tracked replacements, shared updates and even built a public-facing website where homeowners could easily look up their status. This transparency helped build momentum in the program.

5. Every home is its own project.

Construction management was approached with care. Each replacement and restoration was coordinated to minimize disruption while maximizing quality. Efforts were supported by a clear funding strategy through the New Jersey Infrastructure Bank.

6. Public trust is earned through responsiveness.

Community questions were met with fast answers, not red tape. This transparent approach strengthened PVWC's program credibility and kept projects moving along.

Want to learn more about how PVWC and CDM Smith are getting the lead out?

Your Input Needed for LCRI Implementation
CDM Smith is supporting AWWA and ASDWA in developing guidance for the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), specifically for the Non-Lead Validation Study. Under the LCRI, all water systems— including those expecting inventory waivers—must validate that “non-lead” service lines are correctly classified.

To inform this process, AWWA is conducting a utility survey to gather feedback on current inventory methods, validation challenges, and potential follow-up actions if lead is found. Your input is vital to ensure the guidance reflects real-world conditions.

The survey takes 20–30 minutes and is now open through Friday, July 25.  A separate survey for regulators is available here. For questions, contact Joanna Cummings at [email protected].

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