Lead-tainted Flint water pipes replaced in more than 5,000 homes

FAST Start initiative aims to replace pipes in 6,000 homes by end of year

FLINT, Mich. – Phase 4 of the Fast Start initiative has replaced lead-tainted pipes at 5,148 Flint homes since its start in March 2016.

Four area companies have been replacing the pipes and service lines leading from homes, extending the FAST Start initiative, Mayor Karen Weaver's efforts to restore safe and clean drinking water to Flint's residents. 

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Using a process known as hydro-excavation, where soil is removed with pressurized water, workers have managed to investigate the composition of the pipes. This allows pipe replacement crews to avoid digging up copper service lines and concentrate on homes with lead and galvanized pipes. 

To be eligible for service line replacements, residents must have an active water account. They also must have signed a consent card giving permission for the work to be done. In rental homes, both the owner and the tenant must sign consent cards. Residents are urged to sign the consent cards as soon as possible- so crews working in their neighborhood can replace their service line.  

FAST Start's goal is to have all of Flint's approximately 20,000 tainted service lines replaced by 2020. 

More information about the FAST Start initiative can be found on the city of Flint website. Questions about FAST Start may be directed to the FAST Start office by emailing faststart@cityofflint.com or by calling 810-410-1133.   

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