Cincinnati approves massive funding package for water main and lead service line replacements

Cincinnati approves massive funding package for water main and lead service line replacementsThe city council authorized a $91 million state loan and millions more in capital budget transfers to upgrade Greater Cincinnati Water Works infrastructure and accelerate lead pipe removals.

Council approved a $91 million loan from the Ohio EPA and Ohio Water Development Authority to replace aging water mains and service lines.

An additional $8 million state loan, including $4.24 million in principal forgiveness, was secured specifically for lead service line replacements.

The FY 2027 capital budget authorizes $80.5 million for Greater Cincinnati Water Works capital improvements and $20 million for private lead line replacements.

The budget also includes $500,000 for a stormwater management partnership to install green infrastructure in high-runoff areas.

The Cincinnati City Council unanimously approved a substantial suite of funding measures on June 17 to overhaul the Greater Cincinnati Water Works (GCWW) distribution system, prioritizing the eradication of lead service lines. The centerpiece of the financing is a $91 million loan from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and the Ohio Water Development Authority. The funds, drawn from the Water Supply Revolving Loan Account, will be used to reimburse GCWW for the costs incurred replacing aging water mains and service lines across its service area. To further tackle lead infrastructure, the council authorized a second Water Supply Revolving Loan of up to $8 million. This package includes $4.24 million in principal forgiveness and a $3.76 million zero-interest loan, which will assist with the cost of replacing both public and private lead service lines. During the meeting, Councilmember Jeffries noted the ongoing urgency of the issue, citing a federal mandate to eliminate lead pipes by 2037. These state loans are supplemented by internal municipal fund transfers approved in the FY 2027 Capital Improvement Program. The council authorized the transfer of $25.19 million from the Water Works Fund to the Water Works Capital Improvement Fund to back new water mains, treatment plant improvements, tanks, and pumping stations. Furthermore, $20 million was transferred specifically to the Private Lead Service Line Replacement Fund to maintain momentum on private property abatements. Overall, the capital program authorizes the expenditure of $80.5 million for GCWW capital improvements. In addition to drinking water investments, the council approved $500,000 from the Stormwater Management Fund to mitigate runoff in high-risk areas. Councilmember Jeffries highlighted that the funds will support a partnership with Groundwork Ohio River Valley to install green public infrastructure, such as rain gardens and bioswales, targeting the Mill Creek Valley.