City begins next phase of no-cost galvanized service line replacements in targeted Lawrence neighborhoods

Published on April 23, 2026

The City of Lawrence is continuing an important multi-year effort to identify and replace eligible galvanized water service lines in targeted neighborhoods across the community. What residents need to know Residents in selected areas may receive a letter from the City if their property has a higher likelihood of having a private galvanized service line that qualifies for replacement. If confirmed eligible, the private service line (from the meter to the home) may be replaced at no cost.

Why this work is happening This work is part of the City’s ongoing response to updates to the federal Lead and Copper Rule. While the City has no known lead service lines on the City side of the water system, some properties may still have private galvanized service lines that qualify for replacement.

Over the past several years, the City has been building its service line inventory, reviewing records, and identifying areas with a higher likelihood of galvanized service lines on the private side of the system. That work is now moving into the next phase, with direct outreach to property owners in targeted areas.

What the City will do If a property is confirmed to be eligible, the City or its contractor will replace the private galvanized water line with new PEX water line, install related fittings and reconnect plumbing outside the building foundation, and complete basic restoration including backfill, seeding, and surface grading.

The City will also provide a minimum 12-month workmanship warranty, offer a pitcher filter with six months of replacement filters, and conduct required follow-up water testing within 3 to 6 months after installation.

What residents need to do Property owners who receive a letter are encouraged to act quickly. Funding for this work is limited by budget year, and replacements will be scheduled based on when responses are received. Residents who do not complete the survey and waiver within 30 days may no longer qualify for the current round of work or may be moved to the end of the list.

To participate, residents who receive a letter from the City should complete the service line survey, sign and return the waiver form, allow access to the yard and service line area during installation, and participate in required follow-up sampling after replacement.

Learn more More information about the Lead Service Line Inventory, galvanized service line replacement, and the service line survey is available at Lawrenceks.gov mso/h2o lead awareness.

Residents with questions can contact the City at leadandcopper@lawrenceks.gov or 785-832-3141.

Contact: City Communications, citycommunications@lawrenceks.gov