Press Releases

New Orleans, LA - Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) appreciates the OIG's recognition of the progress SWBNO has made in improving its service line inventory, customer notifications and lead awareness efforts. With the launch of our Lead Service Line Replacement Program in the field this month, we have moved from planning to implementation, positioning SWBNO to make even more progress on the recommendations outlined in the report. 

The program is designed to systematically identify and replace lead service lines throughout New Orleans, including those on private property, with the goal of completing citywide replacements by the federal deadline of 2037. Its launch follows an extensive process to assemble the expertise, resources and operational infrastructure needed to successfully deliver a program of this massive scale. We have begun notifying residents, canvassing neighborhoods, and performing inspections, and we will begin replacing lead lines in early 2027. This will include issuing contracts to start in Q1 2027 with 10,000 small dig pipe checks (service line inspections) and 1,500 replacements.

The program is specifically designed to address many of the OIG's recommendations, including expanded public education, proactive resident outreach, customer support and a coordinated approach to service line replacement. These efforts are now moving into action, establishing a foundation for sustained progress as the program expands. 

We are also coordinating closely with the City to align the program with other infrastructure projects, community outreach and broader efforts to integrate SWBNO operations with the City. This integration presents opportunities to improve efficiency, coordination and accountability. 

Regarding the replacement of privately owned portions of lead service lines, the Louisiana Attorney General's May 2026 opinion provides a legal pathway for SWBNO to undertake this work, subject to the conditions outlined in the opinion. Constitutional Amendment 7 would offer the same much-needed benefits to other municipalities and utilities across the state, and SWBNO encourages residents to vote.

Our focus now is on executing the program, delivering measurable results and meeting federal requirements. We welcome the opportunity to brief you on our progress, implementation schedule and ongoing coordination at your convenience.