Detroit Water Board clears $15M in service contracts, extends Lifeline H2O program

Detroit Water Board clears $15M in service contracts, extends Lifeline H2O programThe Detroit Water and Sewerage Department approved a wave of operational contracts, including major investments in surface restoration and water shutoff management, while keeping its $34-per-month low-income assistance program active through mid-2027.

The board approved a $7 million funding increase for Major Contracting Group Inc. for hard surface restoration, bringing the total contract to $46.9 million.

A joint venture of LGC Global, Inc. and The J.D. Thomas Group was awarded a three-year, $6.45 million contract for water shutoff and restoration services.

DWSD extended current enrollments in its Lifeline H2O affordability program through June 30, 2027, avoiding the need for recertification.

Recent sampling showed lead and copper levels at 8 parts per billion, remaining below the EPA's 12 parts per billion limit.

The Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) Board of Water Commissioners approved a consent agenda authorizing over $15 million in municipal contracts during its June 17, 2026, meeting. The approvals secure critical operational and administrative services for the utility, alongside a renewed commitment to its low-income affordability program. The largest financial item advanced was an amendment to an existing contract with Major Contracting Group Inc. for hard surface restoration repairs. The board authorized an additional $7 million in funding and a 183-day extension, bringing the total amended contract value to $46.9 million with a new expiration date of December 30, 2026. The board also approved a three-year, $6.45 million contract with a joint venture of LGC Global, Inc. and The J.D. Thomas Group to manage water shutoff and restoration services. In addition to field operations, DWSD authorized significant technology and administrative upgrades. These included a three-year, $2.6 million contract with Waterfield Technologies to upgrade the utility's omnichannel call center, and a five-year, $2.24 million contract with Box Inc. for enterprise content management licensing and support. While the utility moved forward with its water shutoff management contract, a DWSD staff member also confirmed the extension of the Lifeline H2O affordability program. Current enrollees in the program will not need to recertify and will continue to receive the $34 monthly fixed rate through June 30, 2027. Staff noted that additional information regarding funding to add new residents to the program will be announced in the coming weeks. Finally, the Director reported that the utility continues to meet federal water quality standards. Recent lead and copper sampling results came in at 8 parts per billion, remaining well below the Environmental Protection Agency's limit of 12 parts per billion.