Thunder Bay Water Authority Evaluates Lead Corrosion Mitigation Measures Amid Quality Report Release
The City of Thunder Bay's water authority reports that drinking water meets provincial safety standards while assessing lead corrosion mitigation strategies. An annual report shows nearly 8,000 private and 5,500 public lead service connections. After abandoning sodium hydroxide use in 2020 due to pipe leaks, the city continues to provide water filters and has extended this program through 2026. A $25 million investment for lead service replacement is planned over the next two decades.

Thunder Bay's water authority maintains that its drinking water system meets provincial safety standards while evaluating lead corrosion mitigation measures. The recent annual report indicates approximately 8,000 privately-owned and 5,500 publicly-owned lead service connections.
The city previously attempted to use sodium hydroxide to reduce acidity but ceased in 2020 after copper pipes leaked. Currently, free water filters are provided to residents and this program has been extended through 2026.
The city offers loans for lead pipe replacements and replaced 107 municipally-owned lead services last year. A financial plan includes a $25 million investment for the next 20 years aimed at replacing lead services.




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