The City of Amarillo is undertaking a comprehensive assessment of its water lines to comply with updated federal regulations aimed at reducing exposure to lead in drinking water.

This effort follows the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) revised Lead and Copper Rule Enhancements (LCRI), approved by the White House on October 7. These regulations require all municipalities to identify and replace lead service lines.

The city’s initial inventory, posted online Oct. 16, identifies water lines as “Unknown,” “Galvanized” or “Lead.” Notifications were mailed to residents by November 15. Unknown pipes – those installed before the 1989 lead ban and not yet inspected – must be assessed by October 2027.

“This nationwide initiative will ensure that all water lines connected to the City of Amarillo system meet federal safety standards,” said Deputy City Manager Floyd Hartman. “Our water system has always tested safe, but this process will confirm and enhance those protections.”

City water pipe inspection process and results so far

Amarillo is inspecting the city’s 79,000 water lines. So far, 20,000 physical inspections have been carried out, with no main leads identified. Around 60% of lines remain classified as “Unknown”.

Deputy Director of Utilities Shannon Tolleson explained the importance of the inspections: “The federal government has given us a clear timeline to ensure compliance. By inspecting and inventorying each water line, we can identify potential risks and develop a strategy to address them. It is a proactive approach to protecting public health.

Tolleson explained that the composition of Amarillo’s water plays a key role in preventing lead exposure. “The naturally high pH and hardness of our water creates a coating inside the pipes, which helps prevent lead from seeping into the supply. That’s why we’re consistently getting results on water safety,” she said.

Addressing Funding Challenges and Compliance Timeline

Replacing lead or galvanized pipes will require significant funding. Tolleson acknowledged the financial challenges but emphasized the city’s commitment to finding solutions.

“We are exploring federal grants, state revolving funds and other opportunities to make this financially feasible,” Tolleson said. “It’s not just Amarillo’s challenge: Every city faces these regulations. We are optimistic that we will obtain the necessary resources to achieve our goals.

Under the LCRI, the City of Amarillo must:

• Complete 100% of inspections by 2027.

• Develop a lead service line replacement program.

• Replace identified lines within 10 years of the 2027 deadline.

Tolleson emphasized the importance of collaboration between city staff, residents and external partners: “This is a large-scale project that requires buy-in from all stakeholders. Our residents can expect regular updates and transparency throughout the process.

What impact will this have on the community’s water supply system?

The city stressed that the inspections and replacements will not impact water quality or supply. Inspections are generally carried out at meter level, with minimal disruption to properties.

“This program is about safeguarding the future of Amarillo,” Tolleson said. “We are taking every precaution to ensure our water system remains among the safest in the country.”

Amarillo residents can visit the city’s website for updates and resources related to the project.

This article was originally published on the Amarillo Globe-News: City of Amarillo begins water line inspections to comply with EPA