"East Chicago Starts Lead Pipe Replacement At Superfund Site"

"East Chicago is in the process of replacing lead service lines throughout the city, an action the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says is critical to ensure the safety of the drinking water.

The city recently began replacing lead service lines, which connect the main to residents' homes, in an effort to better protect people from potential lead exposure through the water. The city has said the process will take time, with a target of completing work at 400 homes by May.

"We ask for their (residents) continued patience and wish to note that this is an extraordinary undertaking by the city," said Steve Segura, East Chicago's multimedia director and spokesman, said in an email. "Normally, the service lines from our system to the home is not our responsibility, so this is really an extraordinary effort on the city's part.""

Craig Lyons reports for the Chicago Tribune September 14, 2017.