Projects to replace lead and galvanized customer-owned service lines in Warren & Camden counties funded through NJ Infrastructure Bank.
Aqua New Jersey announced work is underway to identify and replace customer-owned lead and galvanized service lines in Phillipsburg Township, Warren County and Blackwood, Camden County. The projects are part of Aqua New Jersey’s ongoing effort to inspect, identify and replace lead service lines throughout the state at no direct cost to the customer. These combined projects positively impact more than 2,500 customers (733 customers in Phillipsburg Township and 1,822 customers in Blackwood).
Customer-owned service lines are the pipes running from approximately the curb line to the homes and businesses. Aqua already treats drinking water to prevent leaching of lead into the water, but replacing these aging pipes is an extra step in reducing the risk for customers.
Aqua New Jersey secured more than $12.4 million in low-interest loans through New Jersey Infrastructure Bank (I-Bank) to complete the service line surveys and replacements in Phillipsburg Township and Blackwood. Work began in early July in Phillipsburg Township and is expected to get underway in Blackwood in early August. Both projects are set to be completed in 2026.
“Protecting our customers’ drinking water from contaminants like lead is our top priority,” said Aqua New Jersey President Natalie Chesko. “I want to thank NJ I-Bank for supporting our service line replacement project which helps us deliver quality drinking water and gives our customers peace of mind.”
Aqua New Jersey is working extensively to identify customer-owned service lines that are made of lead or galvanized material. Since 2022, Aqua New Jersey has invested $35 million to replace more than 2,100 lead and galvanized customer service lines. These replacements cannot be achieved without proper coordination with homeowners and business owners. Aqua thanks its customers for participating in this important program as we work diligently to remove lead from drinking water.
State leaders join Aqua New Jersey in highlighting the importance of Lead Service Line Replacement projects in communities across the Garden State.
“I want to extend my sincere thanks to Aqua NJ for their dedicated efforts in replacing lead service lines in Phillipsburg, a vital step toward ensuring safe and clean drinking water for all residents,” said Assemblyman John DiMaio. “This initiative not only protects public health but also demonstrates a strong commitment to modernizing our water infrastructure for future generations. We appreciate Aqua NJ’s partnership in safeguarding our community’s well-being and look forward to continued progress in eliminating lead exposure risks.”
The service line material inventory and replacement is required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and New Jersey’s Lead Service Line Replacement Law.
Learn more about Aqua New Jersey’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program.