Racine Begins Major Lead Pipe Removal Project, Free for Residents

RACINE, Wis. (WRJN) – Racine officials say a new $130 million effort to remove all lead service lines in the city will come at no cost to homeowners, as work begins on one of the largest projects of its kind in Wisconsin.

City leaders, labor groups and community partners gathered this week to launch the EquiFlow Lead-Free Racine Program, a five-year initiative aimed at replacing an estimated 10,000 lead service lines. The project also includes replacing more than 100,000 feet of aging water mains.

Mayor Cory Mason said the city secured one of the largest grants in the state to fund the work, calling the effort a critical investment in public health. “There is no cost to the homeowner,” Mason said during the kickoff event.

Crews are expected to replace more than 1,000 lead service lines during the first construction season, with the pace increasing in later years. Officials say the program will also support local jobs through partnerships with unions and workforce programs.

The initiative is being carried out in collaboration with Community Infrastructure Partners, Domina Consulting Inc., and the Racine Water Utility.

Residents can check their service line status and request a replacement through the city’s Lead-Free Racine program website or social media pages.