Pittsburgh Water Advances System Transformation with $28 Million Investment to Replace Lead Pipes Across 15 Neighborhoods

November 5, 2026

PITTSBURGH, PA - Pittsburgh Water is advancing a $28.2 million investment to replace lead service lines across 15 Pittsburgh neighborhoods, marking another significant step in the utility's long-term commitment to protecting public health and modernizing the service area's drinking water infrastructure.

The investment will support work at approximately 3,200 properties, where crews will verify service line materials, replace lead pipes on both public and private property where necessary, and restore areas disturbed during construction. The work is part of Pittsburgh Water's ongoing effort to eliminate residential lead service lines throughout its service area by the end of 2027.

"Strong neighborhoods start with healthy families, and access to safe drinking water is fundamental to both," said Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O'Connor. "This investment means more families across Pittsburgh will benefit from the removal of lead pipes in their communities. It's the kind of meaningful progress that improves quality of life and makes Pittsburgh a better place to live."

The neighborhoods included in these phases are Allentown, Brighton Heights, Duquesne Heights, Elliott, Garfield, Greenfield, Manchester, Mount Washington, North Oakland, Point Breeze, Regent Square, Shadyside, South Side Flats, Squirrel Hill North, and Swisshelm Park. This construction will begin in early 2027.

"Every lead pipe we replace is an investment in the health of our customers and the future of Pittsburgh," said Will Pickering, CEO of Pittsburgh Water. "We're not simply replacing aging infrastructure. We're building a water system that families can depend on for generations to come. These investments reflect our responsibility to protect public health today while creating a stronger, more resilient Pittsburgh for the future."

This investment builds on nearly a decade of progress towards eliminating residential lead service lines in Pittsburgh. As of October 2026, Pittsburgh Water has replaced nearly 29,000 lead service lines, bringing the program to approximately 88% completion.

The $28.2 million investment was authorized by Pittsburgh Water's Board of Directors at its October meeting. The work will be supported through Pittsburgh Water's capital program and PENNVEST financing.