CHICAGO (AP) – Chicago plans to begin replacing toxic lead water pipes across the city after decades of hiding downplaying the potential health threat to the public. The Department of Water Management on Wednesday shared with the Chicago Tribune its plans to replace 750 of the roughly 400,000 lead service lines connecting homes to street mains. Like other cities also replacing lead service lines, Chicago will rely on federal grants and low-interest loans to finance its work. Lightfoot said the city’s water is tested often and is safe to drink as chemicals are added to the water system. However, replacements are needed as pipes are disturbed by road work.
