Akron advances 2027 lead service line replacement funding and water plant upgrades

Akron advances 2027 lead service line replacement funding and water plant upgradesThe Akron City Council unanimously approved multiple water infrastructure measures, including state funding agreements for future lead pipe replacements and a construction contract for water plant improvements.

Council approved filing applications with the OEPA and OWDA for the 2027 Lead Service Line Replacement Program.

A construction contract for improvements to the City of Akron water plant was authorized.

The city awarded maintenance contracts for flow monitoring, rain gauges, and non-residential backflow inspections.

All water-related ordinances were passed unanimously 13-0 as part of the consent agenda.

During the July 6, 2026, meeting of the Akron City Council, officials unanimously approved a slate of water and wastewater infrastructure measures, moving forward with critical funding and operational contracts without debate. The most significant authorization allows the city to file applications and enter into agreements with the Water Supply Revolving Loan Account (WSRLA), the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA), and the Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA). These agreements will secure funding for the planning, design, and construction of Akron's Lead Service Line Replacement Program targeted for 2027. In addition to the lead service line initiative, the council authorized the Director of Public Service to advertise for bids and enter into construction contracts for improvements to the City of Akron water plant. The council also approved two key maintenance and compliance contracts. ADS Environmental Services LLC was awarded a contract for the ongoing maintenance of the city's flow monitoring systems and rain gauges. Meanwhile, Backflow Solutions Inc. secured a contract to conduct cross-connection control inspections for non-residential water users connected to the Akron water distribution system. All four water-related ordinances were introduced by Councilman Kamer and placed on the consent agenda, which the council passed by a 13-0 vote.