2025 Annual Water Quality Test Results - Full Service

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
TOWN OF ARLINGTON
51 Grove Street
Arlington, Massachusetts 02476
Telephone (781) 316-3104, Fax (781) 316-3281
Public Water Supply #3010000

Thank you for taking the time to review the information contained within this report. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (Mass DEP) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency require public water systems to provide an Annual Consumer Confidence
Report. Information contained within this report provides detail on the quality of our drinking water and includes updates on water related activities.

The Arlington Department of Public Works (DPW), in cooperation with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA), is pleased to provide this annual water quality data to keep you informed about your water system.

Our Distribution System

Arlington receives all of its water directly from the MWRA. Water comes from the Quabbin Reservoir, about 65 miles west of Boston, and the Wachusett Reservoir, about 35 miles west of Boston. The two reservoirs combined supply an average of approximately 200 million gallons per day to MWRA member communities. After being treated at MWRA’s state of the art facilities, water is delivered through five MWRA master meters into the Town’s distribution system.

In 2025, Arlington supplied a total of 1,221 million gallons of water to our residential, municipal and commercial accounts. Our average residential use was 48 gallons per person per day. Arlington’s peak demand was 4.48 million gallons on August 11, 2025. Arlington’s water system is comprised of approximately 130 miles of water mains, ranging from six to 20 inches in diameter, with approximately 1,400 hydrants, and 12,705 service connections.

Lead and Copper

Arlington annually collects and tests water from 20 high risk properties for the presence of lead and copper. We receive many inquiries about lead in the drinking water. There is no lead in the water supply; however, lead can enter your tap water through contact with brass fixtures
(which contain lead in the alloy), lead solder (which is now outlawed), or old lead plumbing in the house or in the service line from the main to your house. The 2025 lead and copper results are shown below. All samples were below both the lead and copper Action Levels.

September 2025 Lead and Copper Results

Water Service Line Inventory

In October 2024, Arlington published an online inventory of all service lines in the Town’s water distribution system. This inventory, in the form of a GIS map, allows property owners to view what their service line material consists of based on available Town records. At that time, of the 12,705 service lines, 30 had records indicating lead may be present, two were “galvanized requiring replacement” and 3,585 were “unknown” (due to lack of complete records). The remaining services lines were determined to be “non-lead.”

In 2025 Arlington performed additional records search and review and was been able to update the inventory (which can be found at www.arlingtonma.gov/water). Information about the Town’s lead removal program can also be found at that site. Significant progress has been made in reducing the number of “unknowns.” That number has been reduced by 1,248, and now totals 2,337.

Reduction in the number of “galvanized requiring replacement” (GRR) and lead has also been achieved. At the end of 2025, these numbers were zero and three respectively. Reductions in these categories occurred either by performing replacements or by visual inspection confirming non-lead material is present. Work is planned and funded to fully eliminate any remaining lead lines. Property owners at these locations have been contacted and work to investigate, and replace if necessary, is scheduled to occur in 2026. In addition, letters were sent to all properties where the inventory indicated the service line was unknown, GRR, or lead.

Inflow and Infiltration (I&I) Removal

Arlington is working to remove sources of I&I. I&I consists of clean water entering the sewer system and is prohibited by State Law. Common sources include sump pumps that are connected directly to the sanitary sewer line, or indirectly with hoses into sinks or floor drains. These connections add unnecessary flow to the sewer system and often result in overflows during periods of heavy rain. In addition, this clean water entering the system adds to the volume of sewer flow the Town pays to be treated as sewerage.

Water Main Upgrades

Each year Arlington works to replace aging water mains. In 2025, with help from the MWRA’s Local Pipeline Assistance Program, work occurred on Pleasant Street between Route 2 and Irving Street. In 2026, work is planned to continue between Irving and Massachusetts Avenue. Details will be communicated on the Town’s website as they are finalized.

Updates to Water Meter Reading Technology Town-wide/ Water Meter Replacement Program

Work continues on this project. In 2025, Arlington DPW replaced 345 meters. If you have received an estimated read on your most recent water bill, the Town may need to access your property to install a new meter or remote reading equipment. Please contact the Water Division at the number below to schedule an appointment. These upgrades are mandatory and no fee will be charged to customers for this service. The Town is also taking this opportunity to update the water service line material inventory. Any locations determined to be lead will be included in the Town’s no cost lead line removal program.

If you have any questions or comments on the information presented, or about water related meetings, please call us at the following numbers or visit www.arlingtonma.gov/water.

Water Meters/Connections: 781-316-3106
Water Bills: 781-316-3102
MWRA: 617-242-5323

Thank you,
Michael W. Rademacher, PE
Director of Public Works

Town of Bedford
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
314 Great Road - Bedford, MA 01730
Tel. (781) 275-7605 - Fax (781) 275-9010 - www.bedfordma.gov

BEDFORD’S WATER SYSTEM:

In 2025, Bedford supplied 495.6 million gallons of water to our residential, retail and industrial customers; this usage was below the supplied amount in 2024 (505 MG), resulting in an average daily usage of 1.3 million gallons. Our average residential use resulted in 93 gallons per person per day. Bedford’s peak day demand was 25 million gallons on July 30th. The Shawsheen Ground Water Treatment Facility has remained offline since 2019 with no further treatment needed at this location. Bedford was 100 percent supplied by the MWRA (i.e. Quabbin and Wachusett Reservoirs) via Lexington from three metering vaults. Bedford’s water system includes approximately 84 miles of water mains, 800 fire hydrants, 760 backflow prevention devices, 5,000 service connections and three storage tanks.

WATER OPERATIONS:

In 2025, the Water Division replaced approximately 2,450 feet of water main along Reeves Road, and completed its gate valve exercise program operating approximately 416 valves. The Division also repaired a total of 15 water main breaks during the year. The Water Division continued its storage tank maintenance program with the interior renovation of Pine Hill Storage Tank and exterior inspections at all of its three storage tanks. To maintain water quality, over 200 hydrants were flushed to remove sediments from dead-end water mains, and another 50 hydrants were cleaned, flagged and painted during the summer. Older or leaking hydrants were replaced as
needed. Additionally, a comprehensive leak detection survey was completed, covering 84 miles of water mains, resulting in three leaks being found. Total water loss through leaks in the survey was estimated at 15 gallons per minute. All leaks were promptly repaired by Bedford Water Division staff.

WATER QUALITY TESTING:

The Water Division regularly tests for various parameters to monitor water quality. MWRA’s results are listed in the beginning of this report. For more information on MWRA water quality testing please visit their website at https://www.mwra.com/your-water-system/drinking-waterquality/ monthly-water-quality-test-results. 

In 2025, during the months of June through November, total coliform bacteria was detected in Bedford’s water, requiring a Level 2 Assessment for each month except September that total coliform bacteria exceeded the allowable limit. Federal regulations allow no more than one sample can test positive in any month. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and serve as an indicator that other potentially harmful waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. Level 1 and 2 Assessments are detailed evaluations of the water system to identify problems and to determine, when possible, the source coliform detections. The Level 2 Assessments in 2025 required one corrective action and ongoing corrective actions which were all completed. These included water main replacement, tank inspection and cleaning, monitoring of additional water quality parameters, operation of chloramination booster stations, and
implementing automatic hydrant flushing.

LEAD & COPPER:

The MWRA adjusts the pH of drinking water, making it less corrosive in order to prevent leaching out of lead and copper from household plumbing. As part of EPA revisions to the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), the Bedford Water Division completed an inventory of every service line (the small pipe that connects your home to the water main) and submitted it to MassDEP in October. We identified no lead service lines, but lacked complete information for some properties. In November 2024, we mailed a letter to each property where our records did not have information about the service line material with information on how to determine if it was made of lead. In 2025, the Water Division, along with its hired contractor, inspected a total of 129 unknown service lines. These inspections confirmed that no lead service lines were found. Through our statistical model, an additional 650 are now confirmed as nonlead service lines. The service line inventory results have been updated and are available for residents to review. For a copy of the inventory, or to find out if you have a lead service line, please visit our website at https://www.bedfordma.gov/962/Water-Service-Line-Material-Investigation.

In compliance with the LCR, the Town performed semi-annual lead and copper sampling at 36 homes, and two daycare facilities. The Town was notified that a sampling location at Lane School tested above the Action Level for lead in July and immediately resampled the water service to the property line. Both locations were found to be below the Action Level. All 90th percentile results were below EPA Action Levels (see below).

If you would like more information about Bedford’s water system, or water related meetings, please call Bedford Water Division at (781) 275-7605 or visit our website at www.bedfordma.gov

TOWN OF BELMONT
Department of Public Works
Highway • Parks & Cemetery • Water

Jay Marcotte, MPA, Director
Mark Mancuso, Assistant Director
Public Water Supply
#3026000

Dear Water Customer,
The annual Belmont Water Quality Report is provided for your consideration. In cooperation with the MWRA, MassDEP, and the U.S EPA, the Belmont Water Division lets you know where your water comes from, how it is distributed, and what we do to maintain excellent water quality. For additional information and helpful tips please visit the Town of Belmont Water Division website at: https://www.belmont-ma.gov.

Belmont’s Water Distribution System: 

Belmont Water Division purchases all of its water from the MWRA. The water entering the Town
is metered by the MWRA at four master meters. The Town owns and maintains 90.1 miles of water main, ranging in size from 4 to 16 inches in diameter, 879 fire hydrants, and 2,886 gate valves. There are 7,395 water service connections that deliver drinking water to homes, businesses, and other facilities.

The Division continues with its 30-year Capital Improvement Program called “The Water Main Replacement Program.” This program began in 1995 and it will be extended into the foreseeable future. The program’s intent is to replace 40% of the aging, unlined, and under sized water mains. Currently, over 38 miles of old water main have been replaced with larger diameter, cement-lined ductile iron pipe.

Lead and Copper Sample Results:

Our annual Lead and Copper Sampling Program, which identifies plumbing interaction (corrosion) with the drinking water treatment practices, begins in September. Twenty (20) residences and two (2) schools are selected and approved by Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). The Action Level for lead is 1500 ppb (parts per billion) and copper 1300 ppb. We are pleased to announce that all residential homes and schools tested below the Action Levels for lead and copper. We notified each homeowner and Adventures Preschool and Winn Brook Elementary school with their results.

Health Effects of Lead:

The greatest risk of lead exposure is to young children and pregnant women. Lead builds up in the body over many years, excessive amounts can cause damage to the brain, red blood cells, and kidneys. The water purchased from MWRA is lead-free when it leaves the reservoir. Belmont’s water mains are made of cast-iron, ductile iron or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) which do not add lead into the drinking water. However, lead can enter into the tap water through lead service lines (pipe from street to your house), lead solder used in plumbing, and some brass fixtures. To reduce possible lead exposures, always flush your tap anytime water has gone unused for 6 hours, run faucets used for drinking or cooking until the water becomes cold. For more information on the health effects of lead please visit the Belmont Health Department at: www.belmont-ma.gov or call 617-993-2720. For information on having your water tested for lead and for certified lead testing labs please contact Gerard Daigle at gdaigle@belmont-ma.gov or 617-993-2706

U.S EPA Regulatory Requirements: 

All community water systems (CWS) and non-transient non-community water systems (NTNCWS’s) were required to complete a water service line inventory (SLI) by October 16th 2024. The inventory is to identify lead, galvanized, or unknown water service lines to homes and businesses. Belmont Water Division completed the inventory on time and found NO UNKNOWNS and NO GALVANIZED water service lines. Unfortunately, we did find four (4) homes that have a lead service line on the property. All four homes were immediately notified with hand delivered mailings on lead service lines, a Brita Pitcher, and a brochure on the health effects of lead. Belmont Water Division takes this concern very seriously, and with the approval of the Town Administrator, will replace all four lead service lines with copper tubing at no cost to the owners. The four locations have agreed to have Belmont Water replace the lead lines. The records showing what type of water service line is at your home or business, can be viewed online at: www.belmont-ma.gov

Total Coliform Testing in the distribution system: 

To provide an overview of the health of the distribution system, Belmont Water Division
with the cooperation of the MWRA conducts 32 water sample tests per month (8 water samples each week) from across the system to test for coliform bacteria. The EPA requires that no more than 5% of the water sampled in a month may be positive. Belmont Water Division is proud to announce we did not have any positive samples in 2025. (Coliform bacteria are organisms present in the environment and in the feces of warm-blooded animals and humans. Coliform bacteria will not most likely cause illness. However, their presence in drinking water indicates that disease-causing organisms (pathogens) could be in the water system.)

Distribution System Improvements and Maintenance: 

The Water Division in 2025 continued with the “Water Main Replacement Program” and awarded the contract to Cedrone Trucking. The project consisted of five (5) streets for water main replacement: Barnard Road from Trapelo Road to Belmont Street; Jonathan Street from Belmont Street to Bartlett Avenue; Worcester Street from Belmont Street to Fairview Avenue; Drew Road from Beech Street to Slade Street; and Benjamin Road from Beech Street to Slade Street. These streets were 6” unlined cast iron water main dating back from 1889 to 1924. All five (5) streets were updated to 8” ductile iron pipe with a total of 3,570 linear feet, which included installing a total of six (6) new fire hydrants.

Our personnel repaired twenty-two (22) water main breaks, twelve (12) water service line breaks, and installed ten (10) new fire hydrants that were out-of-service. The personnel also did over 2200 water main and service mark-outs for Dig Safe.

Our Smart Meter Replacement Program has been completed with only four (4) meters that have not been updated, out of 11,325. Customers are strongly encouraged to review their daily usage through the “Smart Hub” portal.

The Water Advisory Board (WAB):

Continues its function to advocate and advise the Town of policies, operations management, water and sewer billing disputes, financial practices, and capital investments that will result in the sustained provision of high-quality water service. The WAB conducts public meetings throughout the year. Meetings are posted on our web page at: www.belmont-ma.gov.

For information relative to drinking water quality in Belmont Public Schools, please visit their website: www.belmont.k12.ma.us.

If you have any questions on your water service or would like more information on public meetings, please call us at the following numbers:

DPW-Water Office - 617-993-2680
Water Billing (Belmont Light Dept.) - 617-993-2800
Water Emergencies - 617-993-2501
Water Division Manager - 617-993-2706

Sincerely,
Gerard Daigle
Water Division Manager

City Of Boston
Boston Water And Sewer Commission
980 Harrison Avenue
Boston, MA 02119-2540
617-989-7000
Public Water Supply #3035000

Dear Customer:
This report contains an annual update on the quality of drinking water supplied to you by the Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC), in partnership with Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). Inside this report, there is detailed information on the MWRA’s system, and how the water delivered to Boston complies with federal and state quality standards.

For background, the water provided by BWSC comes from MWRA’s reservoirs and it is lead-free. Most of BWSC’s distribution pipes that carry water to homes are made of iron, steel, and copper. In the fall of 2025, BWSC conducted mandatory testing in homes that are known to have a lead service line as required by US EPA and MassDEP. The test results showed in these higher risk homes that the 90th percentile for lead was 22.5 parts per billion (ppb), which exceeded the Action Level (AL) of 15 ppb. The 90th percentile for copper was 79.1 ppb in fall 2025, below the AL of 1300 ppb.

Boston LCR Results 2025

Since October 2024, all cities and towns in the United States have been required to submit an inventory of every private and public water service, identifying material type and size. The Commission complied and continued to reach out to property owners who our records indicated may have lead pipes. The inventory is comprised of both the public side (beginning at the water main to the property line) and the private side (from the water meter in the home to the property line). If either side is comprised of lead, the pipe is identified as “lead” on the inventory. The inventory also includes unknown or other as a category. If you received a letter or postcard from BWSC, our records indicate that the water pipe is identified in our inventory as Lead, Other, unknown, or Galvanized Requiring Replacement and an inspection should be scheduled to confirm. In 2025, BWSC conducted nearly 1001 inspections and replaced nearly 448 private and public owned lead services. Private property owners, whose pipes constituted about 400 of the pipes replaced were property owners who participated in our No Cost Private Lead Replacement program. Our goal for replacement of lead pipes is the end of 2032, with a similar goal for resolution of unknowns. With the help of our partners and property owners, BWSC expects to meet this goal well before the EPA deadline of 2037.

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Customers can access information about the status of their property on the BWSC website at: https://www.bwsc.org/environment-education/maproom/water-service-map.

The Commission continues to increase its efforts to identify and eliminate lead service lines, both in the public way, and on private property. Letters were mailed to over 7,904 owners and occupants to notify them that our inventory shows that the home may have a lead pipe and provide information about free removal through the No Cost Private Lead Replacement Incentive Program.

In addition to mandatory mailings, BWSC has engaged in a multi-faceted informational campaign designed to promote its No Cost Private Lead Replacement Incentive Program. Over the last year, to help raise public awareness of the lead service issue and available no cost remedies, BWSC has:

• Produced Public Service Announcements PSA’s in English and Spanish specifically promoting BWSC’s lead inspection and replacement program;
• Reached out to property owners with known or suspected lead services directly with phone calls;
• Conducted door-to-door canvassing in neighborhoods with high incidence of lead services;
• Engaged with the public and provided information at over 100 public events across the city.

There is no safe level of lead in drinking water. Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups, especially pregnant people, infants (both formula-fed and breastfed), and young children. Some of the health effects to infants and children include decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can also result in new or worsened learning and behavior problems. The children of persons who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy may be at increased risk of these harmful health effects. Adults have increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or nervous system problems. Contact your health care provider
for more information about your risks.

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I am pleased to note that the New England Section of the American Water Works Association recognized Boston’s tap water as the best-tasting in New England. This is a testament to the quality of the water’s source, the Quabbin and Wachusett Reservoirs, as well as the hard-working staff of BWSC who ensure that everyone has access to drinking water that is not only clean and safe but also great tasting. We continue to get the word out and you can too! If we reach out to you or someone you know, please respond by calling our Lead Hotline at (617) 989-7888 to schedule a free inspection of Boston property to confirm the composition of the water service line and, if lead, have it replaced.

For more information about lead in drinking water, or to learn more about our open public meetings, and other BWSC programs, or Commission meetings visit BWSC’s website at www.bwsc.org or contact the Communications Department at (617) 989-7000.

Sincerely,
Henry F. Vitale, CPA
Executive Director/Treasurer

TOWN OF BROOKLINE
Department of Public Works
Water & Sewer Division
Public Water Supply
# 3046000

Erin Chute, Commissioner
James W. Hersey, P.E., Director

Dear Water Customer:
The Annual Water Quality Report to Consumers is a report on the quality of the drinking water supplied by the Town of Brookline, in partnership with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). We are pleased to be working with the MWRA in this joint communication on the quality of the drinking water arriving at your homes and businesses. This annual report provides detailed information on the MWRA’s source water reservoirs, which are the sole source of water distributed within the Town of Brookline, and the quality of water as determined through federal and state testing guidelines. Water quality test data, as well as the definition of the terms used in the drinking water industry, are presented in clear and readily understandable language. The water quality testing information is also presented as it relates to the health effects of tested contaminants.

In continuing our efforts to make the Town’s water system more efficient and reliable, in 2025, the following improvements were completed: we installed, repaired, or replaced 465 service pipe connections, repaired 12 service and main leaks, repaired or replaced 13 fire hydrants, and replaced approximately 5,200 water meters.

The Town of Brookline has a Cross Connection Control and Prevention Program to protect the water distribution system from contamination. The Certified Backflow Inspectors/Testers survey sites, test the devices, and review and approve new devices before installation. The Town operates under the state DEP regulation 310 CMR 22.22.

The Water & Sewer Division has continued an ongoing unidirectional flushing program designed to remove tuberculation and sediments from water mains. The program involves closing water gates and forcing water flow in two directions of high velocities, which scours the water mains.

Each year, MWRA and local water departments test tap water in homes that are likely to have high lead levels. The following are the most recent results. All samples were well under the Lead Action Level of 15 parts per billion (ppb).

In 2025, as part of the Water Service Line Inventory (WSLI) and Replacement Plan, Brookline completed the material type verification on all the public side service lines that were unknowns-pipes that had not had their material identified. All of the public side unknowns were found to be older cement-lined iron pipes. The majority of the public side unknowns were replaced with new copper pipe or were cut and capped at the main. At the end of 2025, the WSLI indicated that there were no identified lead service lines and only 29 private side service lines with unknown material left. The Town will work with the owners to verify their pipe material. Unknown pipes are considered lead-containing until they can be verified or replaced. The results of the inventory are posted on the Town’s website at https://www.brooklinema.gov/3857/Water-Service-Line-Inventory. On November 15, 2024, the Town of Brookline sent letters to all of its customers with galvanized or unknown pipe materials. If you did not receive a letter, your pipe materials are presumed to not contain lead.

If any lead lines are found on the private (customer) side, the Town will replace them at no cost to the customer. Customers will be notified in writing before the service line replacement. Anyone who has questions on water service line replacements should email water@brooklinema.gov or call 617-730-2170.

The Town of Brookline is committed to providing its residents with the best quality water possible. As our customers, we hope that you will find this report informative and useful. If you would like more information on a particular topic or have a specific question, please call the Water & Sewer Division office at 617-730-2170, water@brooklinema.gov, or contact the MWRA directly using the phone numbers listed in this report.

Sincerely,
James W. Hersey, P.E., Director
Brookline Department of Public Works
Water & Sewer Division

CITY OF CHELSEA, MA
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
CITY HALL, 500 BROADWAY, ROOM 310, CHELSEA, MA 02150
PHONE: 617-466-4200 • FAX: 617-466-4210

Public Water Supply # 3057000

The Chelsea Water and Sewer Department is pleased to provide this annual water quality report to keep you informed about your water system.

Water Distribution System:

The City of Chelsea purchases all of its water directly from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). The MWRA delivers the water to Chelsea’s distribution system through five MWRA master meters. Chelsea’s distribution system then delivers the water to homes, businesses, schools, and other facilities for drinking, fire protection and other uses. Chelsea’s water distribution system comprises approximately 56 miles of water mains, ranging in size from 6 to 20 inches in diameter, approximately 575 fire hydrants, over 1000 mainline gate valves, and in excess of 5,100 service shutoff valves (“curb stops”). Upwards of 70% of the water mains in Chelsea’s distribution system are over 50 years old, and an estimated 47% of the water mains are old unlined cast iron pipe. Unlined pipe allows tuberculation (rust) to grow on the inside surfaces of the pipe. While not a health problem, tuberculation restricts the amount of water conveyed by the pipes during firefighting operations, and can give the water a rusty or yellow/red appearance. These older mains are also more likely to break and require emergency repair.

Water Quality:

Chelsea monitors the water quality in our distribution system at 11 sites every week. These sites are tested for temperature, chlorine residual and coliform bacteria. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. EPA requires that no more than five percent of samples in any month can be positive for total coliform bacteria. Chelsea met this standard every month in 2025. For information regarding Chelsea’s weekly water quality and bacterial sampling results, go to www.mwra.com/your-water-system/drinking-water-quality.

Water System Improvements:

The Downtown Broadway utilities improvement project to replace 760 feet of 12-inch water main, 450 feet of eight-inch water main, and 60 feet of 16-inch water main, along with replacement of 850 feet of lead service lines with new one-inch copper services, was awarded to Albanese D&S in April 2024. Utility work began in the summer of 2024, and was completed in the fall of 2025.

Lead in Drinking Water:

The water in Chelsea’s mains is lead-free; however, lead can leach into the water from old lead pipes or pipes with lead solder, or a lead service line (the water service pipe connecting the building to the city water main in the street). The City samples 20 residences and two schools annually, as part of the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) program, to ensure lead does not exceed EPA action levels. In 2025, Chelsea’s testing indicated we were below the lead Action Level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). The 90th percentile result for homes in Chelsea was 2.41 ppb. We also sampled for copper and results were below the copper Action Level of 1300 ppb with a 90th percentile of 70.9 ppb.

To reduce the potential for exposure to lead in drinking water, Chelsea began replacing the city-owned portion of lead service pipes many years ago. In 2017, we began replacing the non-city owned portion of lead service pipes during water main projects. In September 2018, the City embarked on a multi-year program to replace all remaining lead services in Chelsea at no cost to building owners or tenants.

The City continues proactively working towards complying with the federal Lead and Copper Rule. The City’s primary goal at this time is to identify the material of every service line in the City in order to compile a Lead Service Line Inventory (LSLI). This process includes door knocking, checking during water meter installation, during water main maintenance, and by investigatory digging known as test pitting, leading to 165 test pits dug and 52 lead service lines removed in 2025. The best way to complete the LSLI even faster though, is with the help of you, the Chelsea community.

We are asking all Chelsea residents and businesses to check their water service and share their results. In 2024, to make this process easier, the City, in partnership with the non-governmental organization Environmental Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) and its consultant(s) for technical assistance, digitized the tie cards and refined our inventory. This culminated in creating a dashboard for the public to view what the service line material(s) at any address in the City is. To access this dashboard, and for further resources in identifying lead, please visit https://www.chelseama.gov/community/lead/index.php. If your property has an indication of an unknown service line, or any material other than “Non-Lead,” we ask that you reach out to the City in order to schedule a verification check with a member of our DPW staff. To schedule a service line verification appointment, you can use the Google form on the previously mentioned webpage, or contact Chelsea 311.

As part of increased lead awareness and removal efforts, the City established the Chelsea Lead Taskforce in April 2024. This cross-departmental taskforce aims to spread awareness of the health effects of lead. In 2024, the City of Chelsea was also selected by the EPA to be a partner community as a part of the agency’s Get the Lead Out (GLO) program, which ran through the summer of 2025. GLO provided the City with technical assistance for lead service line identification, removal, and public education. As part of this, a team successfully canvassed and door knocked at over 2,000 properties in the City that had unknown material or suspected lead service lines, and produced and distributed educational materials.

If you have questions or want further information about this letter, your water, or about public meetings, please contact Public Works at 617-466-4200. Thank you.

Para recibir una copia de este informe en español, por favor llame al 617-466-4200.

Chelsea Water and Sewer Department
Isaac Fucci | Environmental Compliance Coordinator

MASSACHUSETTS WATER RESOURCES AUTHORITY
Deer Island
33 Tafts Avenue
Boston, MA 02128
2023 CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REPORT FOR DEER ISLAND
Public Water Supply #3035001

The MWRA Waterworks Division appreciates this opportunity to provide MWRA staff on Deer Island with this annual report on the quality of your drinking water. This consumer confidence report (CCR) includes water testing results for 2024, information on MWRA’s water treatment and disinfection processes, and MWRA’s efforts to improve the water distribution system. MWRA supplies wholesale water to local water departments in 53 cities and towns as well as Deer Island, which is its own DEP recognized Public Water Supply. The report is attached and will be posted online at: www.mwra.com.

This water quality report reflects the significant, ongoing efforts and expertise of MWRA staff at Deer Island as well as waterworks staff who ensure the safety of the drinking water supplied to you and 3.1 million people, and protect the environment around our water supplies and communities. The report also provides information about source water and finished water leaving the John J. Carroll Water Treatment Plant. This memo provides details about water tested at Deer Island, which is a public water system (PWS).

Lead and Copper Testing:

The MassDEP Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) requires that we test drinking water at 13 sites once a year to determine the levels of lead and copper at Deer Island taps and water fountains. This testing also provides us with information to assess the effectiveness of MWRA’s corrosion control treatment. In September 2024, the 90th percentile for Deer Island water testing results for lead was 0.801 parts per billion (ppb), compared to the Lead Action Level (AL) of 15 ppb, and testing results for copper were 133 ppb, compared to the AL of 1300 ppb. Both lead and copper levels were significantly below the Action Levels for these metals. For additional information on the potential health impacts of lead in drinking water, and steps that may be taken at work or at home to reduce exposure to lead, please see page 4 and 5 of the 2024 CCR report. There are no lead service lines on Deer Island. Additional water quality parameters can be found at: www.mwra.com.

Lead and Copper Rule 2024 Testing Results for Deer Island

Total Coliform Testing: 

Deer Island tests weekly for total coliform bacteria and E. coli at four drinking water sites. No bacteria positive water samples were detected during 2024.

If you would like to learn more about the water that MWRA supplies, about other MWRA activities and projects, or meetings that are open to the public, please visit our website at www.mwra.com. If you have any questions, please call 617-242-5323. Thank you for your interest in MWRA’s water quality, and for your continued efforts to support MWRA’s mission.

Sincerely yours,
Stephen Estes-Smargiassi, Director, Planning & Sustainability
Michael McCarthy, P.E. Director, Metropolitan Operations Waterworks

CITY OF EVERETT
CITY SERVICES FACILITY
WATER/SEWER DEPARTMENT
19 Norman Street
Everett, Massachusetts 02149
Public Water Supply # 3093000

Dear Water Customer,
The City of Everett in partnership with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) would like to present to you the 2025 annual water quality report.

Water Consumption:

The City of Everett purchases all of its water directly from the MWRA. The average daily flow of water in 2025 was 3.75 million gallons per day. The single highest daily flow for 2025 was on December 14, 2025 in the amount of 5.25 million gallons. The maximum flow week occurred from June 19, 2025 to June 25, 2025 in the amount of 32.28 million gallons.

Everett’s distribution system is comprised of approximately 70 miles of water mains ranging from two-inches to twenty four-inches in diameter, with seven hundred twenty five hydrants. There are approximately 1,000 gate valves that allow isolated portions of the system to be shut down for repairs and maintenance. The system delivers water to homes, businesses and other facilities for drinking and fire protection.

Lead and Copper Results:

The Everett Water Department tests for lead and copper once a year. In 2025, Everett was below the lead action level of 15 parts per billion (ppb), with a result of 5.67 ppb and the copper results were 62.3 ppb which is well below the copper action level of 1300 ppb.

Some homes built before the 1950s may still have a lead service line connecting the house to the water main.

Lead Service Replacement:

The Everett Service Line Inventory (SLI) is made publicly available and can be viewed in person at our water department office (19 Norman Street), it is available to be mailed upon request (please call 617-394-2325 to submit a request), or it may be viewed online using our interactive online map by visiting https://lead-service-line-inventory-ewate.hub.arcgis.com/.

In December 2025, the Everett Water Department mailed letters to all locations and owners of locations served by a water service identified as Lead or Lead Status Unknown. The letter included information on the effects of lead and opportunities to verify the service line material. If your water service line material is unknown, contact the Everett Water Department at 617-394-2325 to schedule an inspection.

The Everett Water Department intends to replace all lead service lines on the public side and private side of the service at no cost to the homeowner or property owner. The Everett Water Department replaces approximately 200-300 service lines per year and will continue to do so until all lead service lines within the system are replaced, and all unknown materials are identified. Through the end of 2025, we have replaced 411 lead service lines. If you as the homeowner opt to not have us replace your portion of the service line when we replace the public portion of your water service, you may experience a temporary increase in lead levels in your drinking water; we strongly recommend having your portion of the service line replaced by us when we replace the service line portion on the public side.

Customers can visit https://lead-service-line-inventory-ewate.hub.arcgis.com/ to find more information about lead in water service lines.

Total Coliform Tests in Community Pipes:

To assure water quality and regulatory compliance Everett collect 13 water samples each week and the MWRA analyzes them for total coliform bacteria and E.coli. The EPA requires that no more than 5% of the samples in a month may be positive for total coliform. Everett met this standard every month in 2025.

Maintenance:

Hydrant flushing was conducted in April and October. Unidirectional flushing helps remove sediments, improves water quality and increases the longevity of our water mains. All fire hydrants were inspected and operated to ensure proper operation. The valve exercising program was also continued.

Cross-Connection Program:

The City also has a cross connection program in which backflow devices are tested annually or semiannually depending on the type of hazard to prevent contamination to the City’s drinking water system. All hoses should be equipped with a vacuum breaker attachment to prevent flow back into your homes plumbing.

Please call the Water Department with any questions pertaining to your water.
Rita Crafts 617-394-2327
Tameka Walsh 617-394-2325

The Department of Public Works Commission meets every second Thursday of the month in City Hall at 6:00pm.

Ernest Lariviere
Water Superintendent
PWS# 3093000

Public Water Supply #3100000

Dear Water Customer:
The Framingham Department of Public Works is proud to provide you with this year’s Annual Water Quality Report. This report has been compiled to provide you with information regarding the drinking water that we supply to you daily in conjunction with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). Inside this report, there is detailed information about the MWRA’s system and how the drinking water delivered to Framingham exceeds both Federal and State quality standards.

The Framingham Water Division and MWRA perform lead and copper sampling and testing annually. Lead can be found in water service line materials and interior plumbing fixtures such as gooseneck service connections, pipe solder, and brass faucets. In 2024, the Framingham Water Division collected drinking water samples from high-risk homes and tested them for lead and copper concentrations to ensure compliance with water quality standards. Sampling results have once again successfully met the goal established by the EPA, which states that no more than 10% of the samples taken may exceed 15 parts per billion (ppb) for lead and 1,300 ppb for copper. The 90th percentile for lead in Framingham’s drinking water was 4.33 ppb, well below the lead Action Level of 15 ppb. The sampling results are listed in the table below.

This year, one sample exceeded the 15 ppb action level for lead. Together with the MWRA we worked with our customer to perform a Find and Fix lead re-sample. The MWRA sampled at a nearby location to the address of the exceedance, and the results met EPA requirements. The City took three new samples at the address of the exceedance and all three samples came back well below the 15 ppb Action Level for lead.

The EPA and DEP required all water systems to perform a service line inventory in 2024. This inventory was intended to identify lead services within the system and provide property owners information about their water service material. Framingham completed the inventory by the October 16, 2024 deadline and we are happy to report that there are no known lead services within the system. The Water Division identified 60 services classified as galvanized requiring replacement (GRR) and 61 water services with unknown lead status out of 18,779 total services in the system. Framingham’s lead service line replacement program (which has been in place for over two decades) and yearly water system capital improvements significantly contributed to these extraordinarily low numbers. The excellent records kept by the Water Department for over 200 years and the hard work reviewing these records by DPW staff and our consultant, Green International Affiliates, Inc., made completing our water inventory a success story.

A water service line classified as GRR, according to the DEP is a galvanized water service that is or once was downstream of a lead service. Water services classified as having “unknown lead status” have records that are missing or incomplete with the City, so material of the water service could not be determined. Letters were mailed or hand delivered to residents and property owners where customers are expected to be served by water lines with either GRR or unknown lead status, according to our records. The notification letters informed customers of their water service material status and provided next steps. Since the inventory completion, follow-on inspections from these letters along with further investigations by City staff have allowed the number of unknowns and GRRs to decrease even further. An interactive water service inventory map is available on the City website at: https://www.framinghamma.gov/3912/Water-Service-LineLead-in-Drinking-Water. There you can locate your property and inspect the status of your water service. The water service inventory is also available for review at the Water & Wastewater Division office located at 100 Western Avenue. If you have any questions about the material of your water line, you can either take a picture of the water service where it enters the home or building and send it to water@framinghamma.gov or call the Water Department at 508-532-6050 to schedule an inspection by our staff. The MWRA has a great informational website on lead in drinking water at:
www.mwra.com/your-water-system/drinking-water-quality/lead.

Framingham Public Schools is working with the University of Massachusetts and DEP to perform lead water testing in our public schools and early education and childcare facilities. If you own or run a private school or day care facility, there may be opportunities to have free lead testing performed on the drinking water at your facility. More information about the DEP’s free lead testing program for schools and daycare facilities can be found by searching for “MassDEP lead in schools.”

The Framingham Water Division and MWRA analyze over 80 bacteriological samples each month to ensure the quality and protection of your drinking water. The EPA requires that no more than 5% of the samples collected monthly test positive for the presence of coliforms. In 2024, the City maintained full compliance with the EPA’s standards for bacteria in drinking water, better known as the Total Coliform Rule.

The Department of Public Works continues to manage and strives to improve its water system through its daily operation and maintenance activities and its ongoing Capital Improvement Program. The Water Division performs services such as unidirectional hydrant flushing; fire hydrant, valve and meter maintenance and replacements; pump station operation and maintenance; and scheduled and emergency response activities. In 2024 the Water Division continued its unidirectional flushing program. The Division also responded to 68 water leaks throughout the distribution system. Mechanical upgrades were made at the William J Heights booster station.
The Capital Improvement Program undertakes numerous water system projects such as the rehabilitation and replacement of pump stations, storage tanks, and distribution system infrastructure that in some cases predate the 1900s. These endeavors are developed and implemented to ensure that our residents and businesses reliably receive the highest quality water with sufficient quantity and pressure for domestic use and fire protection. In 2024, the City replaced approximately 5,445 linear feet of water mains, including associated valves, hydrants, and appurtenances at various locations within the water distribution system. The design for the rehabilitation of the Merriam Hill water storage tank, the design for the electrical upgrades at the William J Heights booster station, and the design for the cleaning and repairs of the Goodnow water storage tank continued through 2024. The design for the replacement of the Elm St pumping station began in 2024.

Please visit the City’s website at www.framinghamma.gov for additional information regarding your drinking water system, or contact the Water Division. The website will allow you to view agendas for upcoming public meetings involving water system discussions, as well as information about our operations, maintenance, and construction projects. If you have any questions or comments about your drinking water, please call us at the following numbers:

Water Billing: 508.532.5605 | Water Operations: 508.532.6050 | MWRA: 617.242.5323

Respectfully,
Stephen Leone
Director | Water and Wastewater

Town of Lexington
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS WATER & SEWER
Public Water Supply # 3155000

This Drinking Water Report is intended to provide information to Lexington residents about their water supply. Our Town works in partnership with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) to deliver quality drinking water to each customer for consumption, fire protection and other uses. Helping residents learn more about water quality and the effort that goes into maintaining the water system is part of this partnership. By providing this information, we also hope to encourage conservation and protection of this precious resource.

Our water comes from the Quabbin Reservoir in Central Massachusetts, through the Wachusett Reservoir and is transported in tunnels and pipes to four metered locations that supply the Town. There are 158 miles of water distribution pipes in Lexington that, on average, deliver approximately 5 million gallons per day (MGD) to our customers. Demand for water fluctuates seasonally, with higher volumes of water being used during the summer months. Lexington also has an irrigation meter policy where a second meter can be installed for lawn watering or other types of irrigation uses. Lexington water system serves a population of 32,271 residents with 13,054 residential service connections and 333 commercial and industrial services. If you have not had your meter updated with the new automated system, please contact the DPW water division to make an appointment.

The most frequently asked question that we receive about water quality, concerns the presence of lead in tap water. The answer is simple: the water we supply to your home does not contain lead. If any lead is present at the tap, it has been picked up through contact with brass fixtures (which contain lead in the alloy) or with lead elsewhere on the premises, such as lead solder used in plumbing work. Lead water services (the pipe connection running from the house foundation to the water main in the street) may also be a factor. However, lead has not been used for water services or household pipes since before World War II. Although the majority of the homes dating from this earlier era either never used lead or have since had their water services replaced, there may still be a small number of lead services in place. Also, note that lead can still be found in many new brass fixtures.

Lexington has an on-going “lead service replacement program” that was established when the Town had more than one home test above the Lead Action Level. Lexington has successfully passed the most recent lead sampling collection. The October 2024 lead result are shown below.

Lexington is preparing for the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions mandated by Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP). We have completed and submitted a lead service line inventory of every service line in town to MassDEP. The Department of Public Works has hired a consultant to review and inventory all water line service records. Residents with lead service lines, galvanized iron service lines or unknown material service lines were notified by letter of their service line material on November 14, 2024. Construction on lead service line replacement is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2025.

If you did not receive a letter, or to find out if you might have a lead service line and how it can be replaced, please contact Tyler Schmitt at the Apex Companies at 617-657-0963 or email LexingtonLSLR@envpartners.com. For more information go to: https://lexingtonma.gov/1888/Lead-Service-Line-Replacement-Project.

 A map of the entire system inventory can be found at: https://apexmapping.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/sidebar/index.html?appid=24d95c0084894fa6b682bb7a88aa77ea.

The Lexington Water System received one Notice of Non-Compliance (NON) from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection in the 2024 reporting period. Our system did not provide notice of individual tap results from lead and copper tap water monitoring to persons served by the system at each sampling site from which a sample was taken within 30 days of receiving notification as required by 310 CMR 22.06B(6)(c)2. Notice was given on 32 days of individual tap results. This information was added to this letter as required for compliance by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection Agency.

The Lexington water distribution system has a primary and secondary full time licensed operator. Both are grade D3 operators as required by DEP. I would also like to mention that the surcharging of the Town’s Sewer System during rain storms is caused, in part, by illegal connections to the Town of Lexington sanitary sewer lines. By illegal connections, I refer to sump pumps that are tied to the sanitary sewer line directly with piping, or indirectly with hoses into slop sinks, floor drains, roof gutters, or from leaders tied into the sanitary sewer. Eight sump pumps can theoretically put as much water into the sewer system as 200 homes discharging wastewater. This is a process we call I&I, or Inflow and Infiltration, where clear groundwater enters the sanitary system through leaks, cracked pipes, or sump pumps. We all need to work together to eliminate these connections and if you are not sure please give us a call and we will inspect your system and let you know if the setup is correct at no cost to you. Let’s do all we can to reduce I&I in the Lexington sanitary system and we will all benefit in the long run. The cost of collecting and treating storm water that goes into sanitary system is passed on to all sewer rate payers in Lexington.

If you have any questions, please contact the Department of Public Works or the Health Department. Thank you.

To find out about any public meeting information please go to our website, www.lexingtonma.gov/calendar-by-event-type/16

David Pavlik
Water Sewer Supt.
Tel: 781.274.8300 x1
dpavlik@lexingtonma.gov

Joanne Belanger, RN
Health Director
Tel: 781-698-4533
jbelanger@lexingtonma.gov

Lynnfield Water District
Public Water Supply # 3164001

The Lynnfield Water District (LWD) is pleased to provide this annual water quality report to keep you informed about your water system.
We would like to provide a recap of the major points for any new customers or residents who may not have seen last year’s water quality report.

Our Distribution System

The LWD purchases all its water directly from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). The water is delivered through one master meter into the distribution system. The distribution system consists of a network of pipes, valves, hydrants, and service lines. The system delivers water to homes, businesses and other facilities for drinking and fire protection.

LWD’s distribution system is comprised of approximately 29 miles of water mains ranging from two to twelve inches diameter. There are almost three hundred hydrants that are owned and maintained by the district. There are approximately four hundred and fifty gate valves that allow portions of the system to be shut down for maintenance and repairs.

Approximately ten percent of the system is unlined cast iron pipe. Unlined pipes allow tuberculation (rust) to grow on the inside surfaces of the pipe. While not a health problem, these tubercles can affect the ability of the pipe to carry flows and can affect the appearance of the water, such as yellow and red water problems. We have a 5-year capital improvement plan that will address replacing unlined mains as funding becomes available.

Testing for Lead and Copper

LWD tests for lead and copper in a minimum of 13 homes once a year. In 2024, LWD met the EPA rule that 90% of the sampled homes must be below the Lead Action Level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). In the September sampling round, the 90th percentile value for lead was 2.94 ppb. No samples were over the Action Level. For more information about the potential presence of lead in tap water and steps that may be taken to reduce exposure, please see page 5. The LWD has also met the EPA rule that 90% of the sampled homes must be below the Copper Action Level of 1300 ppb. In the September sampling round, the 90th percentile value was 104 pbb.

The Lynnfield Water District completed the lead service line inventory this year. Out of 1,481 service lines, there are no lead lines and only 29 galvanized lines. There were 305 service lines where we do not have information on the material. We will be continually sending out notices with an easy-to-follow guide to help us determine your service line material. We currently have the service line inventory database available in the office at 842 Salem Street, and it will be live on our website soon.

Total Coliform Tests in Community Pipes

The MWRA and LWD test six water samples each month for total coliform bacteria to monitor the district’s distribution system. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. The EPA requires that no more than 5% of the samples in a month may be positive. Routine water sampling during 2024 indicated only one positive sample during 2024. It was in May, at a sample site that was under construction and using a temporary service line.

The chlorine residual was at a normal reading, and up and downstream and repeat testing showed no signs of total coliform.

The district this year began monitoring nitrification levels at the tank site, as well as using deep tank cycles to achieve higher chlorine residuals at the tanks when temperatures increased during the summer. For the first time in 5 years we had no coliform detected in the summer and fall months.

In 2025 the district is preparing to replace all water meters in the district. We hope to have this completed in 2027 with all new ultra sonic meters and will be working towards more frequent meter readings to help find leaks to help reduce wasted water.

If you have any questions or comments on your water or would like information on District meetings, please call us at 781-598-4223 or visit www.lwdma.us.

Sincerely,
Matthew D. O’Connell
Water Superintendent

City of Malden
Massachusetts
Department Of Engineering
Malden Government Center
215 Pleasant St, Rm 320, Malden Massachusetts 02148
Public Water Supply # 3165000

Dear Water Customer,
Your water and sewer service is provided to you through a collaborative effort between the MWRA and the City of Malden. The City works closely with the MWRA on testing and monitoring your drinking water to ensure that all regulatory standards are met.

The Malden water and sewer systems have been serving the community since the late 1800’s. The Engineering Department and Water Department are continuously updating and maintaining Malden’s water distribution system. One priority is our lead reduction program. The City continues to educate the public on the health effects of lead in drinking water and on the potential for elevated lead levels in our drinking water. The results of the tests for lead in drinking water and related information can be seen on both the City of Malden website and the MWRA website. As required, the Malden Water Department works with the MWRA to test water for lead levels each year.

In 2024, Malden’s result for lead was 19.2 parts per billion (ppb), which was above the Action Level for lead of 15 ppb. The copper result was 78.4 ppb, which was below the copper Action Level of 1300 ppb. Each customer with elevated results was promptly notified within 24 hours of receiving the testing results, and was provided additional information about ways to reduce their risk. An educational brochure about lead was made and provided to every customer. MassDEP was also notified within 24 hours of the exceedance.

Malden will sample for lead twice in 2025. Both the fall 2024 and the spring 2025 results are shown below.

The water distribution systems (main pipes) of both Malden and the MWRA do not contain lead. However, some properties built prior to 1987 may have lead water services and other water-piping components which may contain lead. Exposure to lead in drinking water can cause serious health effects in all age groups. Infants and children can have decreases in IQ and attention span. Lead exposure can lead to new learning and behavior problems or exacerbate existing learning and behavior problems. The children of women who are exposed to lead before or during pregnancy can have increased risk of these adverse health effects. Adults can have increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure, kidney or nervous system problems. The City of Malden wants all its water customers to have access to the information and programs available regarding lead in the drinking water.

In October of 2024, Malden completed an inventory of every service line (the small pipe that connects your home to the water main) and submitted it to MassDEP. In November, we mailed a letter to each property that our records indicated has a lead service line or a galvanized line that could contribute lead with information about the risks of lead and how to get the service line replaced. We also mailed a letter to every property where our records did not have information about the service line material with information on how to determine if it was made of lead. For a copy of the inventory, or to find out if you have a lead service line and how to get it replaced, please go to our website at: https://www.cityofmalden.org/242/Water-Utilities, or contact the phone numbers listed below.

A Lead Service Line Replacement program has been established that includes a long-term commitment to replace at least 150 lead water services per year. In 2024 the Engineering Department, in collaboration with the Department of Water Utilities, exceeded this goal. As part of the overall plan, photos and documentation are now kept for each repair made, and the Lead Water Service Map found on the City website at: www.cityofmalden.org/222/Find-out-if-You-Have-Lead-Service-Lines is updated. Efforts are also underway to create funding programs to assist with lead water service replacement on private property. In 2025, the City will utilize American Recovery Program Act (ARPA) funds to replace lead lines in areas with the most children and underserved populations. The City in partnership with the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development (formerly the Malden Redevelopment Authority) also offers low-interest loans to help eligible homeowners finance the replacement of the private portion of lead service lines. For more information, please call the Office of Strategic Planning and Community Development at 781-397-1940.

Please visit the city’s website at www.cityofmalden.org for up-to-date information and meetings. You can also contact the City of Malden by calling 781-397-7040 for further information, or to schedule a free service line inspection, free water test to identify lead levels in any house constructed prior to 1985, or for copies of free educational brochures about the hazards of lead. Please share this information with anyone who may not have received this notice directly. Thank you.

Malden Engineering Department
Malden Water Utilities Department

Public Water Supply #3168000
Town of Marblehead
WATER AND SEWER COMMISSION
Phone: 781-631-0102
Email: Water@marblehead.org
www.marblehead.org/water

Dear Marblehead Water Customer:

The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) and Marblehead Water and Sewer Commission have prepared this 2024 Drinking Water Report to provide you with an annual update on the quality of water supplied to you by the Marblehead Water Department and the MWRA. Marblehead purchases all its water directly from the MWRA. If you are interested in details of the Marblehead Water Distribution System, maintenance and operations, see the Annual Town Report, or visit the Marblehead website: www.marblehead.org.

In Marblehead, an elected five-member board oversees all water and sewer functions. Serving with me on the Commission are Thomas Murray, Vice Chairman; Thomas Carroll; Gregory Bates; and Barton Hyte. Along with Superintendent Amy McHugh, a skilled staff of 22 individuals handles the day-to-day operations of the water and sewer systems as well as the permitting, billing processes, and customer relations.
The Commission suffered an untimely loss with the passing of Commissioner Thomas Carroll. Mr. Carroll was a dedicated member of the Commission for 12 years and will be remembered fondly for his dedication and leadership to the Water and Sewer Departments.

Lead and Copper

Following the EPA revisions to the Lead and Copper Rule, the Water Department, with the assistance of an engineering consultant, completed a review of material for the 7,982 water service lines in Marblehead. Using the water department records and 555 customer identification reports, 7,595 services were documented. An additional 387 services were identified through field inspection completed by the Water Department crew inspections, and vacuum excavation down to existing services. We are happy to say that no lead service lines were identified and the majority of service lines in Marblehead are copper. If we were unable to confirm a property’s water service line material (1,317) or a galvanized service was identified (94), a letter was sent to the property owner notifying them that further inspection was required to record the service line material. The Commission recommends that you contact the water department (email: water@marblehead.org) to confirm the year of installation and the material used for the water service, or to get a copy of your inventory. Should your service material be galvanized iron, the water department will be happy to discuss the procedure for water service line replacement. We also would like to note that there are other possible sources of lead in drinking water including corrosion of household plumbing systems such as brass fixtures and piping (which contains lead in the alloy) or lead solder.

Each year Marblehead tests 20 homes for lead and copper levels. The results were all below the Action Levels for lead and copper set by Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).

Along with residential homes tested, the Commission annually selects two schools to participate in the Lead and Copper Program. All school testing conducted in 2024 was also below the action level. The results of all the school sample testing since 2016 can be found by using the links provided on the Marblehead water department’s web page: www.marblehead.org/water.

System Improvements

The Commission is continually maintaining Marblehead’s distribution system which consists of over 100 miles of pipeline, two booster pumping stations, one water tank, over 800 hydrants, and 1300 valves to ensure the best water quality and service possible. The Commission reviews and approves a capital spending program which prioritizes and schedules water system upgrades, while striving to stabilize rates for each customer.

For the next three years, capital improvements are focused on increasing flow and water quality. This work in 2024 included the replacement of 6-inch unlined cast iron water mains with 8-inch cement lined ductile iron water mains on West Street, Mystic Road, Florence Road, and Maverick Street. A portion of the water main on Stony Brook Road was also replaced with 8-inch cement lined ductile iron.

Water Conservation

Marblehead also experienced high water use during the summer and early fall of 2024. This is attributed to the many homes and businesses who have lawn irrigation. The Commission encourages water conservation. Residents should visit https://www.mwra.com/your-water-system/water-conservation for information on ways to conserve water. Marblehead is also a member of Green Scapes. Property owners in particular who have lawn irrigation should visit http://greenscapes.org/ and download the copy of GREENSCAPES GUIDE Landscaping practices that protect our families and wildlife.

Keeping you Informed

The Commission and its staff aim to keep its customers informed. The town website: www.marblehead.org holds three informative pages: Water and Sewer Commission, Water Department, and Sewer Department for customers to learn more about all the systems under the Commission’s purview. The Commission holds monthly public meetings located at The Water and Sewer Office located at 11 Tower Way in Marblehead. Meeting times and agendas are posted on the Town Website
We hope that you will find this Annual Water Quality Report to Consumers interesting and educational. Please feel free to contact Superintendent Amy McHugh at (781) 631-0102 (email Water@marblehead.org) with any questions, concerns, or comments.
 

Sincerely,
F. Carlton Siegel
Chairman

Public Water Supply # 2170000

City of Marlborough
Department of Public Works
Water Division
135 Neil Street – Marlborough, MA 01752
Contact Person: Matthew Santella – Water and Sewer Division General Foreman
Telephone #: 508-624-6910 EXT: 33401
www.marlborough-ma.gov | Email: msantella@marlborough-ma.gov

This annual water quality report provides information about the water system that supplies water to your home or business.

The Marlborough DPW Water Division maintains approximately 180 miles of water mains, more than 1,500 fire hydrants, and three water storage tanks. The system is supported through activities such as leak detection, water main repairs and replacements, hydrant maintenance and replacements, water main flushing, and addressing residents’ concerns. A comprehensive water sampling and testing program is conducted to meet all State and Federal requirements. Additionally, the Division manages an active Cross-Connection Control Program, which includes ongoing facility surveys and device testing to protect the water system from contamination.

In 2024, 100 percent of Marlborough’s drinking water was supplied by the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). The City used a total of 1.432 billion gallons of water, averaging 3.925 million gallons per day.

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) routinely inspects Marlborough’s water system to evaluate its technical, financial, and managerial capacity to provide safe drinking water. The City’s drinking water system is operated by Massachusetts Certified Distribution and Treatment Operators, who oversee daily operations to ensure the highest water quality.

Bacteria testing is conducted at 18 locations throughout the City three times per month. In 2024, the Marlborough DPW Water & Sewer Division reported no violations of State or Federal water regulations.

Although the water delivered to your property contains no lead, lead can enter from service lines, interior brass plumbing fixtures, or lead solder. Over the past several years, Marlborough’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program has successfully addressed the vast majority of known lead service lines in the City, replacing approximately 985 lead services.

In October of 2024, as required by changes in the federal Lead and Copper Rule, Marlborough completed an inventory of every service line (the small pipe that connects your home to the water main) and submitted it to MassDEP. In November, we mailed a letter to each property that our records indicated has a lead service line or a galvanized line that could contribute lead with information about the risks of lead and how to get the service line replaced. We also mailed a letter to every property where our records did not have information about the service line material with information on how to determine if it was made of lead.

As of January 2025, 79 services with potential lead or galvanized fittings remain. The City remains committed to replacing these services and ensuring the long-term safety and quality of its drinking water system. For information about the inventory, and how to get a lead service line replaced, call us at the number below.
Each year, the City tests homes at higher risk of lead exposure. In 2024, Marlborough met the EPA lead standard, with a 90th percentile lead level below the Action Level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). Detailed test results are provided below.

If you have any questions on this report or want to learn about public meetings related to your drinking water, please go to: www.marlborough-ma.gov or call (508) 624-6910.

Contact Person: Matthew Santella – Water and Sewer Division General Foreman
Email: msantella@marlborough-ma.gov

Telephone #: 508-624-6910 EXT:33401
Internet Address: www.marlborough-ma.gov

City of Medford
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Public Water Supply #3176000

This 2024 Drinking Water Report provides water quality information to City of Medford residents regarding their municipal drinking water. The City works in partnership with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) to communicate to consumers where your water comes from and how it is treated, tested, and distributed to your tap. We know that consumers today have a deep interest in the quality and cost of their water, and our hope is that this and other publications you receive will help you better understand your water system.

Our Water Distribution System

Medford’s Department of Public Works (DPW) maintains the water distribution system that consists of a network of pipes, valves, hydrants, and service lines. Our system takes water from the MWRA supply system and delivers it to homes, businesses, and other facilities for residential and commercial use as well as fire protection during emergencies. The DPW, through both contractors and in-house crews, is constantly improving the system by replacing mains, valves, city-side services, and hydrants when necessary. In addition to this capital engineering and construction work, our water maintenance crews are constantly on the lookout for leaks, responding to breaks for repair, checking and verifying system pressures, replacing faulty meters, and flushing pipelines to keep the water as clean and fresh as possible.

Lead and Copper Results for Medford Water

We receive many inquiries about lead in our drinking water. The simple answer is there is no lead in the actual water supply, but lead can enter your tap water through contact with brass fixtures (which contain lead in the alloy), lead solder, old lead plumbing in the house, or in the service line from the main to your house. MWRA and local water departments routinely test tap water in homes that are likely to have high lead levels – usually homes with lead service lines or lead solder. The EPA rule requires that 9 out of 10, or 90%, of these sampled homes must have lead levels below the Action Level of 15 parts per billion (ppb).

The DPW conducted two rounds of sampling in 2024. Both lead and copper results were below their Action Levels in both rounds, as shown in the table below:

In 2023 the City was issued a Notice of Noncompliance (NON) from MassDEP for failing to submit the Lead Service Line Replacement Program by the December 30, 2023 deadline. Medford responded to MassDEP with an updated Lead Service Line Replacement Program in February 2024 and as a result has since returned to compliance.

The DPW is currently working to identify all lead service lines throughout the system and replace them on an accelerated schedule. During this process the City works to update, correct, and refine its system records, and submits documentation of all lead replacement work to MassDEP for compliance purposes. When complete, this inventory will be made available to the public so residents and owners can view their property’s water service information. As part of this program, in October 2024 the City submitted a service material inventory to MassDEP and sent mail notifications to every property that had a lead service line or service line of unknown material. To date, we have completed 10 years of lead service line replacements of our ongoing 15-year replacement program.

As part of this program the City has established a program that incentivizes and assists property owners in replacing lead lines located on private property. This program provides a $1,000 rebate to owners that replace private lead services. This is a long-term program; our goal is to help all homeowners who wish to remove their lead water service. In addition to this existing program, the City intends to begin removing lead services lines throughout the City at no cost to the home owner. This new program is scheduled to start in July 2025. The existing rebate program will remain available if homeowners do not want to wait for the no cost replacement.

If you need assistance identifying the type of service pipe in your basement, call Water Quality at 781-393-2561 who can assist you. If a lead service line is confirmed and replacement is desired, contact Danae Kristiansen in the Engineering Division at 781-393-2474 or dkristiansen@medford-ma.gov to get information on the replacement process and next steps.

In addition to lead sampling, the DPW samples each month for total coliform bacteria throughout the distribution system. This sampling gives the Water Division an overview of the health and safety of the distribution system. The Environmental Protection Agency requires that no more than 5% of the samples in a month be positive. There were no positive results in 2024.

We at the DPW hope you find this report informative and useful. If you have any questions regarding this report or any other water related questions, please email Scott Brinch, DPW Deputy Commissioner, at sbrinch@medford-ma.gov. If you are interested in attending a Water and Sewer Commission meeting, please visit www.medfordma.org/boards-commissions/water-commission or call Domenic Camarra, Chairperson, at 781-393-2474. For emergency water and sewer calls, please call 781-393-2403, which is monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Public Water Supply #3178000
City of Melrose
Melrose Water Division, 781-979-4172

Elena Proakis Ellis, P.E., BCEE
Director of Public Works
EProakis@CityofMelrose.org

The Melrose Department of Public Works is pleased to provide this 2024 water quality report to keep you informed about your water system. It includes water quality test data, as well as other information about the water delivered to your property. We hope that this report provides you with a better understanding of your water supply and confidence in its use. Melrose purchases water directly from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). The water is delivered from MWRA’s transmission mains into the City’s distribution system, a network of approximately 90 miles of pipes and hundreds of isolation valves and hydrants. The system delivers water to approximately 8,000 homes, businesses, and other facilities for drinking and other uses, and provides fire protection throughout the city. Public meetings to provide information about water division initiatives are posted on the City’s website at www.CityofMelrose.org. Pre-construction meetings for water main projects are held on site and abutters are notified in writing prior to the meeting. Melrose Water Division did not receive any Notices of Noncompliance (NON) in 2024.

Maintenance and Upgrades

Melrose continued an intensive, citywide construction program aimed at upgrading water infrastructure. Water main upgrades in 2024 included replacements on Sewall Woods Road and Maple Road. This project improved local water quality and fire flows, and decreased the City’s overall water consumption through the elimination of pipes prone to leakage and breaks. This project also included the replacement of water services from the new main to the property line. The city continued replacing public-side lead water services on all roads slated for paving as part of our annual roads program. Annual leak detection was performed in water mains citywide, and the city continues to monitor individual accounts for leaks to save ratepayers money. Hydrant flushing is performed citywide every two years and is scheduled for 2025.

Water Quality Sampling Programs

Melrose tests tap water samples weekly in nine locations for total coliform and E. coli, an organism which may signal the presence of more serious bacteria. One sample tested positive for coliform bacteria in 2024 during the August round, but resampling in the immediate vicinity was negative. No follow up assessment was required and samples in subsequent months also tested negative for total coliform bacteria and E.coli.

The city continues to receive inquiries about lead in the drinking water. The simple answer is that there is no lead in the water supply that comes to Melrose; however, lead can enter your tap water through contact with brass fixtures, lead solder (now outlawed), old indoor lead plumbing, or in the service line from the water main to your house. Melrose conducted sampling for lead and copper in March 2024 and September 2024. Each sampling round included tap water samples from 20 residential properties and two Early Childcare or Educational facilities.

The 90th percentile value for lead did not exceed the Action Level (AL) of 15 parts per billion (ppb), and the 90th percentile value for copper did not exceed the AL of 1300 ppb in either sampling round at both residential and educational locations. One residential result in March 2024 was over the AL for lead. The residential results are shown below. Infants and children who drink water containing lead in excess of the action level could experience delays in their physical or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure.

Lead Service Line (LSL) Program

The City continued the lead service connection identification and removal program in 2024. A number of initiatives were advanced, including: 1) continued removal of LSL’s and confirmation of LSL’s to update the inventory; 2) outreach to residents with known lead, galvanized requiring replacement (GRR), or unknown service materials; 3) maintenance of the lead service line inventory map (LSL map) on the city website; 4) distribution of informational brochures on lead in drinking water, and ; 5) submittal of an LSL Replacement Plan to the EPA. More information about these initiatives is provided below.

Under the requirements of a voluntary Administrative Consent Order (ACO) from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP), the City is required to remove at least 25 “complete” lead service connections per year. A “complete” removal means the material on both the public side (main to curb stop) and the private side (curb stop to meter) is not lead. In most cases, the city targeted services that were lead on the public side and not lead on the private side for removal. Some residents replaced private lead services, and, in those instances, the public side was also replaced if it was lead. Property owners who replace private lead service lines are eligible for a $1,000 incentive towards the cost of the removal. Some public lead service lines were also identified and replaced in conjunction with other utility work. As noted above, water main replacement on Sewall Woods Road and Maple Road included replacing the city’s portion of services with copper. Additionally, service line materials were checked on all streets to be paved and LSL’s were replaced.

The City submitted the LSL inventory required under the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) in October 2024. Historical records were used to develop the initial inventory, but there were many locations where conflicting information was discovered. With technical assistance from the EPA “Get the Lead Out” (GLO) program, the city conducted two rounds of building inspections in 2024 to identify water services categorized as “unknown.” A total of 207 buildings were accessed and four lead services were confirmed. The GLO program also assisted with development of the LSL Replacement Plan required by the LCR that was submitted to EPA in November. The city’s goal is to have all feasible LSLs removed by 2032.

As of the submission date, the inventory consisted of 7,966 total water services, 400 LSLs, 23 GRRs, 259 unknowns, and 7284 non-lead (or 91.5% non-lead) services. Additionally, the LCR required written notification to all customers with LSLs, GRRs, or unknown service materials. Letters were sent to 682 customers with information about lead in water and how to remove lead service connections. The Engineering Division can provide residents with a list of bonded and insured contractors who can complete water service replacements, and the city continues to provide a $1,000 incentive towards the cost to remove a private LSL. If you would like a copy of the LSL inventory, please contact the Water Division.

The City maintains a map on our website that shows the locations of known lead service connections at www.cityofmelrose.org/engineering. Under News and Announcements, click on Check your Water Service Material. There is also a link to a “Lead in Water” document that discusses the impacts to public health. If you want to test your water for lead, the Water Division can provide a list of certified laboratories. If you have further questions, please call the City of Melrose Engineering Division at 781-979-4172 or the MWRA at 617-242-5323.

Sincerely,
Elena Proakis Ellis, P.E., DPW Director

Public Water Supply #3189000
Town of Milton
Department of Public Works
629 Randolph Avenue, Milton, MA 02186
Tel: 617-898-4900 Fax: 617-698-1290
www.townofmilton.org

Dear Milton Residents:
The enclosed annual water quality report provides important information pertaining to the quality of water supplied by the Town of Milton in partnership with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024. The MWRA is the only source of water distributed by the Town of Milton. Milton used an average of 2.34 million gallons of water daily in 2024.

The Town of Milton’s water distribution system is comprised of over 140 miles of water mains, 1,200 fire hydrants, 2,300 gate valves and nearly 9,000 water services. The system takes water from the MWRA and delivers it to homes, businesses, and other facilities for drinking water, sanitation, and commercial use. The system is also used to provide fire protection for Milton properties. The Town is constantly improving our system by performing annual leak detection surveys to reduce water waste and by daily review of the security of the water system facilities. Public Works Department crews are continuously performing maintenance activities to ensure the reliability of our water system and the best water quality. The good news is that Milton continues to provide clean, safe quality drinking water for the essential daily needs of our residential and commercial customers in conformity with stringent state and federal guidelines. In 2024, we invested $ 1.32 million dollars in the water system, this included water main replacement on various streets throughout Town. These improvements will enable us to continue to provide reliable water distribution and fire protection.

The results of the September 2024 Lead and Copper Testing Program indicate the Town of Milton has once again achieved its goal of staying under the 15 ppb (parts per billion) Action Level for lead with a 90th percentile of result of 11.9 ppb and 1300 ppb Action Level for copper with a 90th
percentile result of 86.8 ppb.

The Town of Milton submitted its lead service line replacement plan to Mass DEP in October 2024 as required by the EPA Lead Copper Rule Revisions. Residents can access the full service line replacement plan and the database where they can search for the material at their residence on the Town website. For access to an interactive map of the database and the Plan, please visit: https://www.townofmilton.org/1156/Milton-Lead-Service-Line-Inventory.

In November of 2024, following the completion of the Inventory, the Town mailed all residences that contained either lead, galvanized requiring replacement (GRR) or unknown material service lines. If the material on the private property part of your service line is unknown, please visit the website linked above to find out how you can determine the material of your service line yourself or schedule a technician to do an inspection.

The Town is currently working on seeking funds to perform exploratory test pits to determine the materials of unknown services. This work would be in conjunction with additional funds to replace known lead services in Town. If you are concerned about lead in your water due to contamination from a lead service line, please contact the engineering department. You may be eligible for a free lead testing.

MWRA and Milton routinely test 8 to 10 water samples each week for total coliform bacteria to monitor the water quality in the distribution system. MassDEP requires that no more than 5 percent of the samples in any one-month period be positive. Milton had one positive sample for total coliform in 2024, and there were no violations of the Total Coliform Rule.

The Milton DPW oversees a Cross-Connection Control Program for all industrial, commercial, municipal, and institutional facilities. We have a certified backflow tester and Cross-Connection control surveyor on our staff, and all surveying and testing is performed in accordance with the cross-connection section (310 CMR 22.22) of the Mass Drinking Water Regulations. Residents should be aware that pollution can come from their own homes. For instance, if you were planning to spray fertilizer on your lawn, you might hook your hose to the sprayer that contains the fertilizer. If the water pressure were to suddenly drop due to a water main break or fire hydrant use in Town, the fertilizer could be sucked back into the drinking water pipes through the hose. Using an attachment on your hose called a backflow prevention device can prevent this problem. The Public Works Department recommends that homeowners install backflow devices, such as hose bib vacuum breakers, for all inside and outside hose connections.

If you have any questions or comments on your water, would like more information, or want to know about town meetings about water, please visit our website: www.townofmilton.org, email us at gmcentee@townofmmilton.org, or call us at 617-898-4900.

Sincerely,
The Milton Public Works Department

Public Water Supply #3196000
Town of Nahant
WATER DEPARTMENT
Nahant Town Hall
334 Nahant Road
Nahant, MA 01908
Tel. (781) 581-9927, Fax (781)593-0340

Dear Nahant Residents,

In accordance with Federal Drinking Water Regulations, the MWRA and Town of Nahant have prepared this 2024 Drinking Water Quality Report.

The Town receives all of its water from the MWRA. All water supplied to Nahant is metered by the MWRA at the Nahant Rotary. This water is distributed through 26 miles of water distribution pipeline throughout Town ranging in sizes from 4 to 16 inches in diameter serving approximately 1400 service connections. Water meters are read three times per year using an Automatic Remote Reading System. The average daily consumption was 360,000 gallons per day.

Leak Detection is performed annually throughout the Distribution System, and as needed based on water consumption reports. Drinking water samples for bacteria and disinfectant residual are performed twice a month and sent to the MWRA Lab for analysis.

Lead and Copper sampling is performed once per year. All samples were well within federal and state guidelines. Water samples were taken from the school, as well as 10 residences in Nahant in 2024 to be tested for lead as required by the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). The 90th percentile for lead in these samples was 1.41 ppb (parts per billion), well below the Action Level of 15 ppb. The 90th percentile for copper in these samples was 84 ppb, below the Action Level of 1300 ppb.

The Town recently completed and are continuing to work on a Town-wide water service line inventory. The inventory is being conducted to identify the material type of water service lines. The service line inventory is available at the Department of Public Works offices at the Nahant Town Hall. The Town has sent out letters with additional information on the identification of service line material to individual residences that were identified as lead, galvanized requiring replacement or unknown material. For additional information on how to identify your service line, please call the Department of Public Works offices.

In 2024 with assistance through the MWRA Loan Program the Town has completed the installation of a new water main and services on Fox Hill Road and decommissioned a 6” water main on Emerald Road, eliminating a redundant water main. Emerald Road work included new services to the newer 8” main.

Leak detection was conducted on the system town-wide and all leaks discovered during detection were repaired. In 2024 the Town began the process of procuring new residential water meters and water meter reading hardware/software.

The Town of Nahant and the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority are committed to bringing our customers the highest quality water possible.

For any water related non emergencies Public Works Personnel can be reached by calling Town Hall during regular business hours at 781-581-0026. For after hour emergencies please call the Nahant Police Department at 781-581-1212. For more information on public meetings call 781-581-0026 or visit our website at https://nahant.org/calendar.

Sincerely,
Zachary M. Taylor
Public Works Superintendent

City of Newton
Ruthanne Fuller, Mayor
Public Water Supply # 3207000
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
UTILITIES DIVISION

Thomas Fitzgerald, Utilities Director
60 Elliot Street, Newton, MA 02461
Telephone (617) 796-1640
tfitzgerald@newtonma.gov

WHAT NEWTON IS DOING TO IMPROVE WATER QUALITY:

In addition to the actions taken by MWRA outlined in this report, the Newton Department of Public Works has taken steps to improve the quality of drinking water provided to Newton residents. The city completed a Capital Efficiency Plan in 2021, using a Risk-Based Asset Ranking, resulting in an ongoing program of pipeline replacement, cleaning and lining of water mains, replacement of hydrants, elimination of dead-end water mains, and water main flushing. Typical of older distribution systems, Newton’s water pipes develop a layer of sediment and encrusted material known as tuberculation. This can affect taste, odor and color. During rehabilitation, interior walls of pipes are restored, eliminating the tuberculation upon which bacteria can grow.

WATER MAIN REHABILITATION & REPLACEMENT:

Water main replacement is performed where the main is undersized or has corroded to such an extent that it is not structurally sound. Newton is spending approximately $4.5 million per year for at least the next 10 years to rehabilitate the water infrastructure, in conjunction with the MWRA. To keep construction costs at a minimum, water main rehabilitation is targeted on roads scheduled for resurfacing. The 2024 construction season included installation of 6,853 feet of new 8 inch water main, 382 feet of new 6 inch water main and 304 feet of new 4 inch water main.

FLUSHING PROGRAM:

The Department of Public Works has implemented an ongoing comprehensive unidirectional flushing program designed to remove tuberculation and sediments from water mains. The program involves closing water gates and forcing water flow at high velocities, which scours the water mains and improves water quality.

TOTAL COLIFORM TESTS:

Newton collects 23 water samples each week throughout the city for total coliform bacteria to monitor the water quality in the distribution system. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present, or a pathway or source may allow contamination to enter the drinking water distribution system. MassDEP and EPA require no more than 5 percent of the samples in a month test positive. Newton did not exceed the 5 percent limit in any month in 2024.

LEAK DETECTION:

The city performs a semi-annual water leak detection survey on 319 miles of water main with correlation technology. In 2024, one hundred and seventy seven leaks were documented and repaired by the Utilities Division.

CROSS CONECTION PREVENTION:

The Newton Cross Connection Control and Prevention Program operates under MassDEP 310 CMR22.22, which is to protect the water distribution system from contamination. Certified Backflow Testers/Inspectors survey facilities, test backflow devices, review and approve new devices prior to installation.

LEAD AND COPPER SAMPLING:

The MassDEP Lead and Copper Rule that requires that the city test for lead and copper annually. Additional information about lead and copper can be found on the city’s web site at www.newtonma.gov.

In October of 2024, Newton completed an inventory of every service line (the small pipe that connects your home to the water main) and submitted it to MassDEP. In November, we mailed a letter to each property that our records indicated has a lead service line or a galvanized line that could contribute lead with information about the risks of lead and how to get the service line replaced. We also mailed a letter to every property where our records did not have information about the service line material with information on how to determine if it was made of lead. For a copy of the inventory, or to find out if you have a lead service line and how to get it replaced, please contact the phone numbers listed below or go to:
https://www.newtonma.gov/government/public-works/water-sewer-division/drinking-water-information.

For information on public meetings go www.newtonma.gov or call 617-796-1000 Monday through Friday between 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

Shawna Sullivan
Commissioner of Public Works

Public Water Supply # 2215000

Town of Northborough
63 Main Street
Northborough, Massachusetts 01532
Telephone: 508-393-5040 x6
Fax: 508-393-6996

Northborough is a partner with other MWRA communities in providing our water users with the Annual Water Quality Report produced by the MWRA. For calendar year 2024, 100% of Northborough’s water was delivered from the MWRA system through one metered connection.

After receiving the water from MWRA, Northborough distributes the water to our customers. The Water Division maintains approximately 65 miles of distribution pipeline, over 697 fire hydrants and manages 4,278 accounts. The Town of Northborough’s Water Division delivered 328.3 million gallons of water to our customers in 2024.

WATER SYSTEM MAINTENANCE

Year 5 of the five-year valve exercising program was completed. The distribution system is flushed twice a year to remove naturally occurring sediments, which if left in water mains may cause taste or odor problems for consumers. The hydrant flushing program takes place in both Spring and Fall. Phase 2 of the SCADA installation, which will allow continuous remote monitoring of water and wastewater building infrastructure, has been designed and funded through a Federal Grant Program. It is slated to start in Spring of 2025.

CROSS CONNECTION

Northborough has an ongoing program to eliminate possible cross connections from the distribution system. In a typical water supply system, pressure is maintained in a system to adequately enable water to flow to the tap, shower head etc. When pressure drops within the system (due to a water main break, fire demand, etc.) contaminated water could be drawn back into the system from potential sources within your house or business (hose, irrigation system, pool, etc.). Additional Cross Connection Control educational information is available on the Town’s Water Division website at (https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/water-division).

TOTAL COLIFORM RULE RESULTS

Northborough conducts bacteriological testing and chlorine residual sampling for compliance with the Total Coliform Rule (TCR). The TCR requires Northborough to take 16 bacteria samples per month (2 samples each at 8 locations). Northborough had no positive samples in 2024.

LEAD & COPPER RESULTS

Northborough conducted lead and copper testing at 20 residences and 2 Schools. All results were below the Action Levels of 15 ppb (parts per billion) for lead and 1300 ppb for copper.

LEAD SERVICE LINE INVENTORY

The Northborough Water Department has completed a survey of water service lines that connect buildings to water mains, including all domestic and fire service lines, to determine the material and to identify any that might be made of lead. Both the portion in the public way, and the portion of the service line on your private property were identified. The results are included in the table below. No lead service lines were found. All residences with service lines of unknown material and galvanized lines have been notified and need to reach out the DPW Office as soon as possible for an inspection to verify your service line material if you have not done so already. The Service Line Inventory is available for public viewing at the DPW Office.

CONCLUSION

The Northborough Public Works Department, through its Water Division, continues its commitment to provide its customers with safe, high quality potable water. If you have any questions, require additional information or for information on public meetings, please contact the Public Works Administrative Offices, 63 Main Street, Northborough, MA 01532, call us at (508) 393-5040 ext. 6 or visit the Water Division’s website at (https://www.town.northborough.ma.us/water-division).

TOWN OF NORWOOD
Public Water Supply #4220000

This annual report from the Norwood Water Department is compiled in accordance with state and federal drinking water regulations. The report provides information related to the quality of the drinking water that we deliver to you, our residents, and other water users.

Norwood, like many other communities in the Boston metropolitan area, obtains its water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). MWRA operates a network of water reservoirs, treatment facilities and distribution pipes, from the Quabbin and Wachusett reservoirs in central Massachusetts, through state-of–the–art treatment, to hundreds of miles of water mains that deliver water to our border. The Town, in turn, delivers this water to your home through a network of over 120 miles of locally-owned distribution pipes, maintained by our local Department of Public Works.

Both the MWRA and the Town have invested heavily in our water systems in recent years to maintain the high quality of our drinking water. In the last few years, we have cleaned and lined several thousand feet of water main to eliminate rusty water problems and to improve fire flows. During last year’s project, the Town cleaned and lined 10,907 feet of 6 inch water main and 3,706 feet of 8 inch water main, and replaced 29 fire hydrants and 115 water services. This work was performed in the Washington Street, Walpole Street, Guild Street, Central Street, and the Guild and Broadway Street area. Fulton Street, Railroad Avenue, Casey Street, Myrtle Street, Howard Street were also relined in this project. The contractor will be back in the spring to finish services, gate valves on Dean Street and relay 520 feet of 8 inch water main on Pellana Road. The Town also replaced 1,403 feet of 8 inch unlined water main with 12 inch cement lined ductile iron on Washington St (Route 1A) as part of the MassDOT roadway and intersection reconstruction project at Route 1A and Prospect St.

This year the Town will utilize $629,600 in an interest free loan from the MWRA, plus an additional $4,500,000 appropriation from Town meeting, to replace or clean and line unlined water mains. During the project, the Town will clean and line 16,310 feet of water pipe on the following streets and neighborhoods: East Cross Street, First through Sixth Street, Gay Street, Sunnyside Road, and Audubon Road. At West Border Road we will be replacing 775 feet of 8” water main. This work will begin in early spring, weather permitting.

Water Quality Results:

The MWRA water supplied to Norwood is some of the highest quality water in the country. Both the MWRA and the Town constantly collect and analyze water samples in accordance with protocols set by state agencies and the EPA to ensure its continued safety and potability.

The most frequently asked question that we receive about water quality concerns the potential presence of lead in tap water. The answer is simple: the water we supply to your home does not contain lead. Lead can come from lead solder in your home, or a lead service line (the pipe connecting your house to the water main). Over the last several years, the Public Works Department has located and replaced over 130 lead service lines. If you think that your house may have a lead service line, please call the Public Works Department at 781-762-1413 or email us at mryan@norwoodma.gov to schedule an inspection.

Lead solder was not banned until 1986, and some brass contained lead in the alloy until 2014, so it is possible that some newer homes built before that date could have elevated levels of lead present in the “first flush” from the tap. Simply using fresh water rather than water that has sat stagnant helps reduce any risk of elevated lead levels.

Norwood samples 20 homes a year for lead and copper. The 90th percentile for lead for the fall 2024 round was 4.76 ppb, below the Action Level of 15 parts per billion (ppb). The 90th percentile for copper was 101 ppb, below the Action Level of 1300 ppb. The Town of Norwood had no sample sites above the Action Levels for lead or copper in 2024.

The table below represents the completed service line inventory as it was submitted to the MassDEP for October 16, 2024. Following the submission of the inventory, four different notices were mailed to Norwood residents: three to those with unknown materials (both sides unknown, only street side unknown, only house side unknown) and one to those with lead. These notices were delivered by the November 15th 2024 deadline, and were sent to Town residents, as well as landlords and property owners who do not reside locally. Efforts are still ongoing to update the inventory. To assist in these efforts, customers who have received a notice indicating their service line material is unknown should submit a photo of their service line via email to emily.zajac@stantec.com or via text to 720-662-6415. Residents should follow the instructions in this video to determine if they have a lead service line: https://youtu.be/OG0G4qOxmrk.

Customers may request a copy of the inventory from the Town, to be sent via email.

For information about the potential presence of lead at the tap and steps to reduce exposure, see the rest of this report or contact the Norwood Board of Health at 781-762-1240 x174. The Board of Health conducts a voluntary lead testing program to analyze water samples (there is a $25 fee).

Norwood also collects water samples for total coliform bacteria throughout the distribution system. The EPA and MassDEP require that no more than 5% of samples each month are positive. All samples were negative in 2024.

For information on public meetings, please call the Public Works Department at 781-762-1413, or go to our website at www.norwoodma.gov/departments/public_works/index.php. We hope that you find this report to be informative.

If you have any questions, please contact Mark P. Ryan at 781-762-1413.

Tony Mazzucco, General Manager 
Mark P. Ryan, Director of Public Works and Town Engineer

CITY OF QUINCY
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Public Water Supply #3243000
THOMAS P. KOCH, Mayor
ALFRED J. GRAZIOSO, Commissioner

As the Commissioner of Public Works, it is my pleasure to provide you with this annual letter to keep you informed about our water distribution system.

Our Distribution System

The City of Quincy purchases its water directly from the MWRA. The water is delivered through five MWRA master meters into the City’s distribution system. The system, which consists of a network of pipes, valves, hydrants and service lines, delivers water to homes, businesses and other facilities for drinking, fire protection, and other uses.

Our system is comprised of approximately 238 miles of water mains ranging from four-inch to twenty-inch in diameter, with 2,549 hydrants. There are thousands of gate valves that allow us to isolate portions of the system for repairs and maintenance.

An estimated twenty-two percent of the pipes in our system are unlined cast iron pipes over 85 years old. In 2024, the DPW replaced 6.4 miles of old 6-inch to 16-inch-diameter water mains, and water service lines were transferred over to newly installed water mains, over an additional 1.1 miles. A total of 30 roads were worked on. Work also included the replacement of hydrants and water gate valves.

Lead and Copper Results

One of our Department’s continuing, primary goals is to provide safe, clean water for all residents and businesses. Each year we test for lead in 20 homes that have known lead or a lead-lined service. In 2024, we conducted two rounds of Lead and Copper sampling. In March, the 90th percentile for lead was 13.2 ppb (parts per billion), which is below the Action Level (AL) of 15 ppb. The 90th percentile for copper in March was 134 ppb, which is below the AL of 1300 ppb. In September of 2024, the 90th percentile for lead was 10 ppb, and the 90th percentile for copper was 75.5 ppb.

Quincy LCR Results 2024

In October of 2024, Quincy completed an inventory of every service line (the small pipe that connects your home to the water main) and submitted it to MassDEP. In November, we mailed a letter to each property that our records indicated has a lead service line with information about the risks of lead and how to get the service line replaced. We also mailed a letter to every property where our records did not have complete information about the service line material with information on how to determine if it was made of lead. For a copy of the inventory, or to find out if you have a lead service line and how to get it replaced, please contact the phone numbers listed below or go to: https://gis.quincyma.gov/portal/apps/sites/#/city-of-quincy-water-service-line-inventory.

The city has been working diligently to replace older lead services in a timely manner and our Lead Service Replacement Program was also updated in 2024. In 2024, the city replaced another 73 lead services in conjunction with ongoing water main replacement activities. We have worked to identify all our lead service issues and our goal is to remove the identified remaining service connections within 10 years. This Program protects our children and improves the health of our community.

In May 2024 Quincy was issued a Notice of Noncompliance (NON) by MassDEP related to screens on water tank vents. Quincy installed screens on both vents at the Quarry Street tank and the Ricciuti Drive tank on July 22, 2024. Quincy was also required to carry out annual rooftop inspections of atmospheric storage tanks as of August 2024, develop a written maintenance program, and complete a system-wide cross connection survey of the service area. Quincy responded to the NON with all steps completed by November 2024.

Total Coliform Tests in Community Pipes

Each month we test 28 locations and submit 112 routine samples for total coliform bacteria to monitor the distribution system. The EPA requires that no more than 5 percent of the samples in a month may be positive. Quincy reached a coliform positive level in 2024, which required us to carry out a Level 1 Assessment. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. We found coliforms indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution. When this occurs, we are required to conduct an assessment to identify and fix any problems that were found during these assessments. We completed a Level 1 Assessment and implemented a low flow pipe flushing program to address the issue. The three testing locations subsequently tested negative for total coliform. The problem may have occurred due to recent construction in the area, or biofilm scouring in the piping. The area was flushed again in November 2024.

If you have any questions, or need any additional information on water related public meetings, please visit our website at:
https://www.quincyma.gov or call the City’s Water/Sewer/Drain Engineer, Mark Vialpando at (617) 376-1955.

Sincerely,
Alfred J. Grazioso
Commissioner of Public Works

Public Water Supply # 3246000
Town of Reading
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

Dear Water Customer:

This 2024 Drinking Water Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) contains an annual update on the quality of drinking water supplied to you by the Town of Reading Department of Public Works (DPW) Water Division, in partnership with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). Throughout 2024, we delivered to the Town of Reading a steady reliable source of water that continues to be of the highest quality, fully complying with all Federal and State regulations, MWRA protocols, and meeting or exceeding all of our Water Quality Parameters (WQP).

In 2024 Reading purchased 617.18 MG (million gallons) of water from the MWRA. On June 19th, 2024, the Town had its highest single day water consumption at 2.97 MG. The Town’s highest seven (7) day consumption of water occurred from July 8th to July 14th in the amount of 17.6 MG. The average Reading resident uses: 15,828 gallons annually, 1,387 gallons monthly or 45.6 Residential Gallons Per Capita Day (R-GPCD). A Reading resident’s average daily water use (R-GPCD) of 45.6 gallons is roughly 30% below the MassDEP limit of 65 R-GPCD.

The DPW Water Conservation Program (WCP) continued along with success in 2024. This past year, the WCP awarded 81 rebates to 81 residents for 1 energy efficient washing machine, and 80 rain barrels, totaling $2,200.00 in rebates. Since the program’s inception in July 2003, Reading DPW has given out 4,682 Water Conservation Rebates totaling $640,190 to 3,973 Reading residents. For more information, visit: https://www.readingma.gov/262/Water-Conservation-Rebate-Program

Throughout the year, the Reading Water Department collected over 500 water samples from diverse points in our water distribution system for MWRA testing and Total Coliform bacterial analysis. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens could be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination could enter the drinking water distribution system. In 2024, we found no Total Coliform positive (TC+) samples from our water system and sampling locations throughout the year. Additionally, there were no issues of any high Nitrite, Nitrate or other contaminant levels found in any of samples collected for testing in 2024. Our results are listed below:

As part of our MassDEP Water Quality Parameters (WQP) and the Lead & Copper Rule (LCR) Monitoring Plan Regulations, the Reading Water Division maintained compliance for any presence of Lead & Copper in our drinking water in all residential homes, schools and Town buildings.

The MassDEP Lead and Copper Rule Revision (LCRR) required the Reading Water Division to sample water for lead and copper in residential homes all over Town in 2023. As with our prior Triennial sampling years of 2014, 2017 and 2020, all of Reading’s LCRR testing results were within regulatory limits. The 2023 90th percentile of all sample results was 8.39 ppb for lead, well below the Action Level (AL) of 15 ppb, and 98.1 ppb for copper, far below an AL of 1300 ppb. Reading LCRR sampling will again take place by regulation in 2026.

For transparency and review, please find the Town & School Lead & Copper Results as well as other information posted on the Town website on the DPW webpage; Water Division; Water Quality & Supply. Please visit: https://www.readingma.gov/267/Water-Quality-Supply

The Water Division continued to work with local childcare facilities schools to maintain our Town’s LCCA (Lead Contamination Control Act) Plan. Reading’s LCCA Plan & Test Results can be found at: https://www.readingma.gov/269/Readings-Lead-Contamination-Control-Act.

In 2024 The Reading Engineering and Water Depts completed an inventory of all Reading’s water service lines in our distribution system. A service line is the small pipe that carries water from the main pipe in the street into a home or building. The purpose of the inventory is to: identify which service lines: 1) are or contain lead, 2) may contain lead, or 3) do not contain lead. All Residents and Businesses that have verified Lead Services or had services in question were notified in November.

The Town of Reading has developed a plan for identifying and replacing all lead service lines in our system. We continually are updating our inventory as we verify materials and replace lead service lines. For more information on our Lead Service Line Replacement Program and or to see our interactive inventory mapping tool, please visit: https://www.readingma.gov/907/Lead-Service-Replacement-Program.

Reading’s Drinking Water Policies are set by the Board of Selectmen, which generally meets on the first, third and fourth Tuesday of each month in the Town Hall at 7:00 P.M. If you have any questions regarding your water quality, specific testing programs, your water service connections or our lead or copper test results, please contact Erik Mysliwy our Town’s Water Quality & DPW Safety Administrator via phone, 781-942-9092 x1215 or better via email, emysliwy@readingma.gov.

For additional information on Reading’s water system, compliance or water quality programs, testing and results, visit our Water Quality Webpage: https://www.readingma.gov/267/Water-Quality-Supply.

THE CITY OF REVERE, MASSACHUSETTS
WATER, SEWER, DRAIN DEPARTMENT
281 Broadway, Revere, MA 02151
Office: (781) 286-8145
Fax: (781) 286-8146
Public Water Supply #3248000

The Revere Department of Public Works continues to issue an annual newsletter to inform users about the water distribution system, as part of the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority’s annual water quality report to consumers.

THE DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM:

Revere purchases all our water directly from the MWRA. The water is delivered through five MWRA master meters into the city’s distribution system. This system consists of a network of pipes, valves, hydrants, and service lines, providing drinking water and fire protection. The Revere system is comprised of approximately 107 miles of water mains, ranging from four to sixteen inches in diameter. There are 850 hydrants that are owned and maintained by the City. Over one thousand gate valves allow isolation of portions of the system for repairs and maintenance.

SYSTEM UPGRADES: 

In 2024, Revere replaced 13,500 feet of water main, through both our water department and improvement projects. Revere upgraded the water infrastructure in the Library and Sewall Street neighborhood, a project that encompassed 18 streets and 12,400 linear feet of new water main. The City also completed a critical rehabilitation of the water main in the Oak Island

Neighborhood that crosses under the MBTA Commuter Rail. The $3 million project was highlighted by installing two eight-inch water mains on Bridge Street, which replaced an aging six-inch pipe at risk of failure underneath the MBTA tracks.

Mayor Patrick Keefe played a pivotal role in expediting a plan with the MBTA to complete this project, which had stalled since it was first planned seven years ago. “There was a very small window to complete this project with the Commuter Rail track closure, and I wanted to ensure that the Oak Island neighborhood got the infrastructure they needed. I’m grateful to our partners at the DPW, Engineering, and the MBTA for working together to complete this project safely and on time.”

In 2025 Revere will replace 7,500 feet of water main. This year’s major projects will include the improvements on Broadway from Revere Street to Ward Street and Gage Avenue, and the North Shore Road water main replacement project.

LEAD SERVICE LINE REMOVAL PROGRAM: 

The City of Revere is optimistic about its proactive approach toward removing all lead service lines from the distribution system. Revere strives to continue to remove lead services and removed 77 lead services in 2024 and plans to remove another 100 lead services in 2025. Revere also completed a comprehensive Lead Service Inventory in October. In November, we mailed a letter to each property that our records indicated has a lead service line or a galvanized line that could contribute lead with information about the risks of lead and how to get the service line replaced. We also mailed a letter to every property where our records did not have information about the service line material with information on how to determine if it was made of lead. For a copy of the inventory, or to find out if you have a lead service line and how to get it replaced, please contact the phone numbers listed below.

Lead can cause adverse health effects to all age groups. Infants and children who drink water containing lead, in excess of the action level, could experience delays in their physical or mental development. Children could show slight deficits in attention span and learning abilities. Adults who drink this water over many years could develop kidney problems or high blood pressure. For these reasons the city tests twenty homes and two schools each year, as representative of all areas of the city. The 90th percentile level for lead in Revere was 7.81 parts per billion (ppb) in September of 2024, which is below the Action Level of 15 ppb. The 90th percentile level for copper in Revere was 78 ppb in September 2024, below the Action Level of 1300 ppb.

TOTAL COLIFORM TESTS:

We take a minimum of 60 bacteriological or coliform samples each month to ensure the quality of the drinking water. The Environmental Protection Agency and MassDEP require that no more than 5 percent of these samples test positive in a month. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water system. Revere had one bacteriological sample test positive for E. coli in December 2024, which was determined to be caused by an accidently contaminated sample. Repeat samples were collected and tested. Results were negative and required no further action.

A break in the service line that feeds the building at 474 Revere Beach Boulevard required the installation of two temporary 2-inch water services. The City of Revere was required to institute a partial boil water order for the property until test results showed that the water was safe. The partial boil order was lifted after two successful bacteria tests.

If you want more information about your drinking water or about water related public meetings, please contact Anthony Gulizia, Assistant WSD Superintendent at 781-808-6444 or email us at waterquality@revere.org.

Town of Saugus
Public Works Department
515 Main Street
Saugus, Massachusetts 01906
Phone: 781-231-4145 Fax: 781-231-4146
Public Water Supply #3262000

Brendan B. O’Regan, Director of Public Works
Telephone: 781-231-4145
Fax: 781-231-4146
email: boregan@saugus-ma.gov

Dear Town of Saugus Water Customer,

This is the calendar year 2024 report on your drinking water. The Saugus Department of Public Works, in partnership with the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA), delivers water to your tap. This annual report provides detailed information on the MWRA’s source water reservoirs and the quality of water as determined through federal and state testing guidelines. The Town of Saugus purchases all of its water from the MWRA. In CY 2024, the Town delivered an average of approximately 2.93 million gallons per day of water to residents and businesses. The DPW maintains approximately 125 miles of water pipe lines and 9,500 service connections.

The Town of Saugus regularly tests the water supply for Total Coliform bacteria, and 32 samples per month are collected and analyzed. The Town had no positive samples for coliform in CY24.

Saugus also does lead and copper sampling through the community at 20 different sampling locations. The CY24 program was completed in October 2024, and Saugus was again below the Action Levels of 15 parts per billion (ppb) and 1,300 ppb for lead and copper respectively. The 90th percentile of results from the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) sampling was 0.599 ppb for lead and 92.1 ppb for copper.

In October of 2024, Saugus completed an inventory of every service line (the small pipe that connects your home to the water main) and submitted it to MassDEP. In November, we mailed a letter to each property that our records indicated has a lead service line or a galvanized line that could contribute lead with information about the risks of lead and how to get the service line replaced. We also mailed a letter to every property where our records did not have information about the service line material with information on how to determine if it was made of lead. For a copy of the inventory, or to find out if you have a lead service line and how to get it replaced, please contact the phone numbers listed below.

Leak detection is performed twice per year to identify water leakage below the surface of the road. In 2024, the lead detection program found 18 leaks. These leaks were repaired saving an estimated 682,000 gallons per day. The DPW has also replaced 26 fire hydrants, replaced 7 gate valves, and 25 water breaks/leaks were repaired.
Saugus Town Meeting serves as the Water Commission for the Town. At these meetings, any relevant water issue, such as water projects and rates, are discussed. These meetings are well publicized in local media and on the Town’s website. Meetings took place on May 6th, 13th, and 20th.

We hope you find this report informative and useful. If you require more information or have any questions on the Town’s water infrastructure system, please call the DPW at 781-231-4143. Additional phone numbers for MWRA and MassDEP can also be found in this report.

Thank you.

Brendan B. O’Regan
Director of Public Works

Public Water Supply #3274000
CITY OF SOMERVILLE, MASSACHUSETTS
WATER AND SEWER DEPARTMENT
KATJANA BALLANTYNE, MAYOR

Kelley Hebert, Director of Finance
Director Water and Sewer
Neil Viner, Interim Director Water and Sewer

The City of Somerville Water Department, in conjunction with the MWRA, is pleased to provide this annual newsletter to inform all Somerville residents about our water distribution system and water quality. We are happy to report that our drinking water meets all federal and state requirements set forth by the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Act. By continuing to comply with these strict regulations for public water systems, the Somerville Water Department can be confident that our drinking water is safe.

The City purchases treated water from the MWRA. The water is delivered through seven MWRA master meters into the City’s distribution system. The system consists of pipes, valves, hydrants, and service lines, which deliver the water to homes, businesses, and other facilities for drinking and other uses such as fire protection.

Somerville’s distribution system consists of approximately 125 miles of water mains ranging from four to twenty inches in diameter, much of which was installed in the late 1800s to early 1900s. To maintain and protect the system, the Water Department exercises gate valves, flushes water mains utilizing fire hydrants, maintains and replaces fire hydrants, oversees construction projects such as rehabilitation and replacement of older unlined water mains, service line repair and installations, and coordinates a comprehensive cross connection control program. In 2024, the Water Department, with assistance from our on-call contractor, replaced 18 fire hydrants, 5 gate valves, and exercised approximately 379 gate valves through our Hydrant Flushing Program to improve system reliability. The Spring Hill Project has replaced approximately 2,526 linear feet of high and low service water main, 21 gate valves and 6 hydrants. The Broadway Project has replaced approximately 3,224 linear feet of high service water main, 45 gate valves and 11 hydrants. The Poplar St. Pump Station Project has replaced 792 linear feet of low service water main, 11 gate valves and 1 hydrant.

The City of Somerville monitors the drinking water for specific contaminants of concern on a regular basis. We are collecting weekly samples at 21 different locations throughout the distribution system. The samples are analyzed for temperature, chlorine residual, and the presence of total coliform bacteria. A total of 1041 samples were collected. In August 2024, Somerville’s drinking water tested positive for coliform bacteria at regular testing sites.

Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. We found coliforms indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution. When this occurs, we are required to conduct an assessment to identify and fix any problems that were found during these assessments

A Level 2 assessment is a very detailed study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why an E. coli MCL violation has occurred, and/or why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system on multiple occasions. During the past year, one Level 2 assessment was required to be completed for our water system. In addition, we were required to take two corrective actions and we completed both of these actions. The Water Department implemented solutions and monitored the distribution system for water quality. The City of Somerville performed a chlorine study that led to the discovery of 5 closed gate valves in the distribution system. The gate valves were reopened allowing for better flow in the area and water mains were flushed to improve water quality. After the solutions were implemented, the regular testing sites tested clear of coliform. Somerville completed the Level 2 Assessment in September 2024 and submitted it to MassDEP.

All public water suppliers are required by the EPA to regularly test for lead and copper. As part of the sampling program Somerville tests water taps in 20 houses and 2 schools from a DEP approved list of locations. The lead 90th percentile was 6.44 ppb compared to the action level of 15 ppb. The copper 90th percentile was 84.6 ppb compared to action level of 1300 ppb. One household exceeded the Action Level for lead and that lead service was replaced with copper through the Broadway Project. The system is in compliance.

Due to elevated lead levels in 2020 and 2021, we have taken advantage of the “Lead Service Replacement Program” offered by the MWRA, and we replaced a total of 46 lead services using a combination of the program and routine maintenance this year. Since the start of the program, Somerville has replaced 309 lead services. At the start of 2025, there are 100 known lead services remaining and we are projected to replace 44 lead services this year. At this pace, Somerville will replace all known lead services within the next few years. We will continue to focus on removing lead services from the system to improve water quality as we continue the program.

As part of the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR), the City of Somerville completed a water service inventory which is now available on the city’s website: www.somervillema.gov/departments/programs/lead-service-line-replacement-program.

Residents are encouraged to look up their address to check their water service material and sign up for the Lead Service Replacement Program if lead piping is listed. The sign up for the program can be found with the link above. Additionally, in November, the City sent letters to residents and property owners at addresses listed with lead, galvanized steel and unknown material service lines. The letters describe the dangers of lead in drinking water and to contact the Water Department to sign up for the Lead Service Replacement Program or to further assist with confirming the water service pipe material.

In last year’s annual water quality report, we reported on a 2020-2021 monitoring violation related to lead and copper sampling. That notice failed to meet all of MassDEP’s notification requirements, so we are providing additional information in this report. The monitoring violation was due to the fact that Somerville had not properly updated and maintained our materials evaluation, which resulting in our sampling at sites which did not have lead service lines. As we indicated in last June’s report, we have updated our sampling plan and instituted procedures to ensure that future sampling meets all requirements. We also summarized rather than providing this exact language in the notice “We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring are an indicator of whether or not your drinking water meets health standards. During 2020-2021, we did not complete all monitoring or testing for lead and copper at Tier 1 locations, and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of your drinking water during that time.” While there are no actions that you should take related to this 2020-2021 event, we urge you to read the lead-related materials on pages 4 and 5 and in this letter. MassDEP also requires that we ask that you please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail. If you have questions about this notice, please contact us at the email or phone number in the next paragraph.

The City of Somerville’s Water Department continues to focus on providing outstanding water quality and service reliability. Should you have questions or concerns about whether you have a lead service line or have a question about the City’s water distribution system, the Water Department is available to help. To report a problem please use the Somerville 311 system. For general inquiries or meeting dates, you can call us at 617-625- 6600, ext. 5850, email us at email us at water@somervillema.gov, or you can also visit the Water Department web page at http://www.somervillema.gov/departments/dpw/water-and-sewer.

Town of Southborough
Department of Public Works
147 Cordaville Road, Southborough, Massachusetts 01772
Telephone: 508-485-1210
Public Water Supply #2277000

To Our Water Customers: 

The Town of Southborough and the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) are pleased to provide our customers with the 2024 Annual Water Quality Report. The report provides information on the drinking water the Town and MWRA supply to you daily. The Southborough Select Board are also the Water Commissioners for the Town. The town website, southboroughma.gov, posts the Select Board agendas along with water reports and other water system information. Water customers are encouraged to participate at Select Board meetings that discuss water issues.

Southborough’s Water System: 

The Department of Public Works (DPW) manages the Town’s water system. All of Southborough’s water is provided by the MWRA. The water flows into Southborough’s two pumping stations and is distributed throughout the water distribution system. Southborough’s three water tanks create the required pressure in the water distribution system. The Town pumped about 356.4 MG of water in 2024, an 8.9% increase from the volume pumped in 2023.

Water System Maintenance:

The Water Division performed the annual flushing program to remove pipe tuberculation and sedimentation in the last week of April and the first week of May. Throughout 2024 the Water Division employees performed routine system maintenance, as required. The Water System Master Plan was completed in April 2022.

Backflow Prevention (Cross Connections):

Southborough’s Water Division continues to enforce the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) mandated cross-connection control and prevention program under 310 CMR 22.22 through device testing and surveys. The Town performs cross-connection surveys at businesses to ensure required backflow prevention devices are in place and tests the devices to make sure that they are working properly. Backflow devices are required on all lawn irrigation systems, even at residences.

Water Analysis: 

The Town is required to sample 10 sites each month for the presence of coliform bacteria. Coliform bacteria are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. No coliform bacteria were detected in the system in 2024.

The DEP requires that Southborough sample the water from three locations with vinyl-lined asbestos cement pipe each year for PCE (tetrachloroethylene). We tested in 2024 and all test results were non-detectable.

Asbestos testing was not required for 2024 – results from 2020 are shown below. The next scheduled asbestos testing is in 2029.

Lead and Copper Analysis: 

The town also tests 20 sites once a year for the presence of lead and copper. Southborough does not have any lead water mains or lead water services.

TOWN OF STONEHAM
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
16 PINE STREET
MAIN OFFICE: 781-438-0760
Water Dept: 781-438-2583
Fax: 781-438-8183
Public Water Supply #3284000

Dear Water Customer:

The Stoneham Public Works Department is pleased to provide this annual water quality report to keep you informed about Stoneham’s water system.

Our Distribution System:

The Town of Stoneham purchases all of its water directly from the MWRA. The Water Department maintains a network of nearly eighty miles of water mains. To maintain system integrity, Stoneham has an aggressive water main replacement program. During the past several years 21,275 linear feet of water main pipe, was replaced. The majority of the pipe replaced was originally installed in the 1930’s and 1940’s. Much of the old piping had significant buildup of iron and mineral deposits, replacing this piping will lessen water discoloration and decrease water main breaks. We also replaced water services, carried out a system wide meter replacement and testing program, and an annual flushing of all water mains. Our annual system wide leak detection survey was completed. This survey help us identify and correct points of water loss in the system. A 12 inch water main on Main Street from Elm Street to Maple Street was cleaned to remove pipe tuberculation and lined to prevent further pipe corrosion. This process will improve the water quality of the Town’s water.

Lead and Copper Results:

Our Water Department receives many questions about lead in tap water. There is no lead in the water supplied to your home. However, lead can enter tap water through contact with brass fixtures (which contain lead in the alloy), lead solder (formerly used in plumbing work), other lead fixtures in the house, or possibly through the service lines - the pipe running from the house to the water main in the street. In accordance with federal standards, Stoneham tests for lead in tap water in twenty local homes annually. The 90th percentile lead level for Stoneham was 2.09 parts per billion (ppb), which is well below the lead Action Level of 15 ppb. The 90th percentile for copper was 93.7 parts per billion (ppb), which is below the Action Level of 1,300 ppb. For more information about the potential presence of lead in tap water, and steps that may be taken to reduce exposure, please see page 5 of this CCR, or contact the Stoneham Board of Health. Every school sink and fountain has been being tested for lead, and results are available for each school.

The Town identified 15 homes which had lead services. Action was taken to remove all of these services from the distribution system. The Town has also completed an inventory of service lines. After the removal of the 15 services, no lead services remain in the town’s distribution system. The service line inventory list can be found in the lobby of the Department of Public Works and on the Town’s web site at: https://stoneham-ma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9945/Stoneham-3284000-Materials-Inventory-Worksheet.

Total Coliform Tests:

To ensure your water is safe, seven sites are sampled and tested for total coliform bacteria and E. coli each week. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. The EPA and MassDEP require that no more than 5 percent of samples in a month be positive for total coliform bacteria. Stoneham met the standard every month in 2024.

Other Utility Improvements:

The Town of Stoneham has started Phase 9 of the sewer rehabilitation improvements. This rehabilitation will consist of lining sewer mains, spot repairs, and manhole rehabilitation in various areas in town to reduce the amount of inflow and infiltration of extraneous ground water from entering the sewer system.

Residents can visit the Town’s website at https://www.stoneham-ma.gov/261/Water-Sewer for more information on meetings and other water information, or visit the MWRA’s website at www.mwra.com.

Brett F. Gonsalves, Director of Public Works

Public Water Supply# 3291000
Swampscott Department of Public Works
Elihu Thompson Building
22 Monument Avenue
Swampscott, MA 01907-1977
781-569-8860
Fax 781-596-8826

The Swampscott Department of Public Works is pleased to provide this annual newsletter to keep you informed about your water system. The Town of Swampscott purchases all of its water directly from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). The water is delivered through two MWRA master meters into the town’s distribution system. The distribution system consists of a network of pipes, valves, hydrants, and service lines. The system delivers water to homes, businesses, schools and other facilities for drinking and other uses.

The Town of Swampscott’s distribution system is comprised of approximately 57 miles of water mains ranging from 4 to 16-inches in diameter, with 473 hydrants. There are approximately 1400 gate valves that allow isolated portions of the system to be shut down for repairs and maintenance. Swampscott has continued to make improvements to the water system, including a 2024 town wide leak detection survey, and a subsequent study scheduled for early 2025. The surveys are performed to reduce unaccounted for water by identifying hidden and surface leaks. Unfortunately, due to the rising cost to supply water, the Town once again had to increase the water rate. Swampscott’s recently established tiered consumption rate resulted in both low end and high end users seeing a 6.2% increase over the past year.

Seventy percent of the pipes in the distribution system are over fifty years old with approximately sixty percent unlined cast iron pipe. Unlined pipe allows tuberculation (rust) to accumulate on the inside surfaces of the pipe. While not a health issue, these tubercles can affect the ability of the pipe to carry flows for firefighting purposes and can affect the appearance of your water, i.e. yellow or red discoloration.

As part of the Town’s continuing effort to upgrade its water distribution system, the existing 10-inch main on Atlantic Ave (from Blodgett Ave to the Marblehead line) and the 10-inch main on Beach Bluff Ave (from Atlantic Ave to Mostyn Street) will be cleaned and lined this year. This project is funded using MWRA zero interest loans and is the twentieth year in which the town has taken advantage of the MWRA’s financial assistance.

In October of 2024, Swampscott completed an inventory of every service line (the small pipe that connects your home to the water main) and submitted it to MassDEP. We did not identify any lead service lines, but do not have full information on many service lines. In November, we mailed a letter to every property where our records did not have information about the service line material with information on how to determine if it was made of lead. For a copy of the inventory, or to find out if you have a lead service line and how to get it replaced, please contact the phone numbers listed below.
The Town while working with the MWRA tests nine samples bi-weekly for total coliform bacteria to monitor the distribution system. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and MassDEP require that no more than 5% of the samples in a month may be positive. One (1) total coliform positive sample was detected in 2024. Swampscott’s 2024 results were in compliance with state and federal standards.

The Town is also responsible for conducting lead and copper test samples on an annual basis. It is important to note that the water supplied by the MWRA does not contain any lead. However, Swampscott remains concerned about lead in tap water. Therefore, we test twenty homes yearly. The 90th percentile level for Swampscott was 2.52 parts per billion (ppb), which is well below the Action Level of 15 ppb. Please see page 5 for more information on on lead in tap water. Additionally, the 90th percentile value for copper was 99 ppb, which again was well below the copper action level of 1300 ppb.

The Town of Swampscott is committed to providing its residents with the best water possible. As our customers, we hope that you will find this report informative and useful. If you would like to obtain additional information on particular subjects, want to know about town meetings, or have specific questions, please feel free to contact the Department of Public Works, at (781) 596-8860, or e-mail the Director at gcresta@swampscottma.gov. You may also contact the MWRA directly using the phone numbers listed in this report.

Sincerely,
Gino A. Cresta Jr.
Director of Public Works

City of Waltham - Engineering Department
Water & Sewer Division
Public Water Supply #3308000

Dear Water Customer,

The annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) is provided for your consideration. In cooperation with the MWRA, the Water & Sewer Division of the CPW Department presents facts about where your water comes from, how it is tested and most importantly what we do to maintain water quality. For additional information on local water projects, please visit the city website under the Engineering Department at www.city.waltham.ma.us/engineering. For information on water related public meetings visit the city website at city.waltham.ma.us or call 781-314-3120.

Our Water Distribution System:

The City of Waltham purchases all of its water directly from MWRA. The water is delivered through eight master water meters into the City’s water distribution system. The water distribution system consists of the network of water pipes, gate valves, fire hydrants and service laterals. The system delivers water to homes, businesses and other facilities for drinking and other uses. Waltham’s water distribution system consists of 170 miles of water mains, ranging in size from four to twenty-four inches in diameter. There are approximately 14,000 water service connections to homes and businesses. The city owns and maintains 1,600 fire hydrants. There are 3,300 water gate valves in the distribution system that allow us to control the flow of water and isolate portions of the system to be shut down for repairs and maintenance.

Lead and Copper Water Sample Results:

The Waltham Water and Sewer Division annually tests the water for lead and copper levels in 20 homes and two schools. The sampling results for lead, completed in September and October 2024, were below the EPA Lead Action Level of 15 ppb (parts per billion), with a 90th percentile of 2.17 ppb. The range of detects for lead was 0.077 ppb–6.36 ppb. The 90th percentile for copper sampling was 81.6 ppb, which is below the EPA Copper Action Level of 1,300 ppb. The sampling range for copper was 3.7 ppb–120 ppb.

Total Coliform Bacteria Testing In Water Pipes:
MWRA and Waltham conducted 72 water sample tests each month for total coliform bacteria to monitor the water distribution system. The EPA and MassDEP require that no more than 5% of the water samples in a month may be positive. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential harmful, waterborne pathogen may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. Waltham met the EPA standard in every month during 2024.
Water Distribution System Maintenance and Improvements:
In 2024 the Water & Sewer Division repaired or replaced 159 water services, repaired 3 water mains, and repaired or replaced 10 hydrants. Through the Engineering Dept.; In the Winter Street and Lincoln Street Project cleaned and lined 5,670’ of existing 8” & 10” water main, replaced 12’ of 16” water main, 323’ of 10” water main, 351’ of 8” water main, 327’ of 6” water main, along with 57 new gate valves. We also installed 1,255’ of new 12” water main with valves. They also replaced 682’ of 1” services 29 1” curb stop, 40’ of 2” services, 2-2” curb stops and 16 Hydrants. In the Clark Street neighborhood they installed 44’ of 8” water main and 19 gate valves, 3,244’ of 6” water main and 4 gate valves.

Annually the Waltham Fire Department checks every City owned fire hydrant for operability, then the Water & Sewer Division makes repairs to any out-of-service hydrants, over the course of the year.
For information relative to Drinking water quality in the Waltham Public Schools please visit the website www.walthampublicschools.org/about/facilities/

Service Line Inventory:

On October 16, 2024, the Waltham Water Department provided the required water service line inventory and indicated to MassDEP that our system has no service lines of Lead, Galvanized Requiring Replacement (GRR) or unknown materials. This statement is based on the initial service line inventory for our system as required by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. This statement does not take into consideration the possible presence of service line connectors of unknown material or lead. A gooseneck/pigtail/connector is defined as a piece of pipe typically not exceeding two feet in length that connects the water main to the service line or the service line to the water meter of a building. We will continue to identify any of those connectors made of lead and replace them when they are exposed during construction.

For information on all service lines in the City of Waltham see https://www.city.waltham.ma.us/public-works/pages/water-service-line-inventory or contact the Waltham Water Department at (781) 314-3855.

If you have any questions on your water service or would like more information, please call us at the following phone numbers:
Water Bills & Meters - 781-314-3810
Engineering Office - 781-314-3830
Water & Sewer Emergencies - 781-314-3855 
Water Superintendent - 781-314-3836
MWRA - 617-242-5323

Sincerely,
Michael Chiasson,
Director of Public Works

TOWN OF WATERTOWN
Department of Public Works
124 Orchard Street • Watertown, MA 02472
(P) 617-972-6420 • (F) 617-972-6402
Public Water Supply #3314000

The MWRA and the Watertown Department of Public Works (DPW) are pleased to bring you the annual water quality report to consumers on the quality of your drinking water. The City of Watertown purchases its water from the MWRA and supplies it to you through our distribution system consisting of 82 miles of water main ranging in size from 2” to 16” pipe. The DPW and the MWRA monitor the water supply to ensure that your water meets or surpasses every applicable Federal, State or Local standard.

The water provided by the MWRA and Watertown is lead free when it leaves the reservoirs. If lead is present at the tap it has been picked up through contact with brass fixtures, which may contain lead in the alloy, with lead solder used in older plumbing work or from a lead goose neck, that is a short flexible piece of pipe that could be used to connect your service line to the public water main or on private property where your service line changes direction. At the start of 2024 approximately 450 of the 7,600 services in the distribution system had lead goosenecks.

Watertown’s 2024 Lead Sampling Program continues to be below the Action Level of 15 ppb (parts per billion), with a lead 90th percentile result of 1.33 ppb and a copper 90th percentile of 79.8, well below the Action Level of 1300 ppb. In 2024, the Watertown Middle School (68 Waverley Ave) and the Cunniff Elementary School (246 Warren St.) were tested for lead and the results were below the Action Level. Should you have any questions or concerns about the potential for lead counts in your own water, or service pipe material, please refer to information in the body of this report or contact the DPW at 617-972-6420 extension 13119.

Watertown has continued its backflow protection and cross-connection program and has 5 staff members who are certified by the State of Massachusetts in cross connection control testing or survey. We have completed the survey of over 700 non-residential properties for cross connections and continue to resurvey properties as they change their use. Public Education information on residential and commercial backflow protection is included in your water bill annually.

Watertown collects over 500 water samples annually which are analyzed at the MWRA lab for total coliform bacteria and chlorine residual to monitor the health of our system. We are required to monitor your drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring are an indicator of whether our drinking water meets health standards. The samples taken throughout 2024 showed we are in compliance with all applicable drinking water standards.

Through the most recent water main gate valve replacement program contract, the water main, water services and fire hydrants on Mt Auburn Street were replaced. Other water projects included fire hydrant and water service replacement on various streets throughout the City in conjunction with the road reconstruction projects.

The DPW is proud of our water supply, service and the staff that serves you. Water quality is a top priority of the Department. We received 8 Public Water System Awards for excellence between 2005 and 2023 from the MassDEP and the Office of the Governor. We will always do our very best to ensure the quality of your water and of your water service. If you require more information on a particular topic or schedules of City Meetings, please check our website at www.watertown-ma.gov or contact us at 617-972-6420. The body of this report also contains additional information about water quality as well as contacts and phone numbers for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, for the Safe Drinking Water Hotline, and for the MWRA.

Sincerely,
Thomas Brady,, Director of Public Works 
 Matthew Baker, Interim Assistant Superintendent of Utilities

TOWN OF WESTON
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
190 Boston Post Road By-Pass, Weston, MA 02493
Telephone: 781-786-5100, Fax: 781-786-5109
Public Water Supply #3333000

The Town of Weston’s Department of Public Works is pleased to provide the 2024 annual water quality report to our customers. This report also reminds you of the great effort the MWRA and Weston Water Division undertake to provide water that meets or exceeds federal, state and local standards.

WESTON’S WATER SYSTEM: 

The Weston Water Division maintains 116 miles of water distribution mains, approximately 984 fire hydrants, and 3,470 water service connections. In 2024 the Town of Weston consumed 586 million gallons of water, an increase of 93 million gallons of water from the previous year. Weston’s daily average consumption for 2024 was 1.6 million gallons of water. The highest volume daily was 4,163,069 gallons of water on July 22nd, 2024.

LEAK DETECTION:

The Town of Weston undergoes an annual leak detection survey to find water leaks in the distribution system. This year’s survey found twelve leaking fire hydrants and one leaking water service that were promptly repaired.

BACKFLOW PREVENTION:

The Town of Weston continues to enforce the DEP mandated cross connection control and prevention program to prevent contamination of the public water distribution system. The Town conducted 585 backflow prevention device tests at 98 facilities in 2024. Twelve devices failed and were re-tested.

HYDRANT FLUSHING & MAINTENANCE PROGRAM: 

The Water Division completed the annual comprehensive flushing program to remove naturally occurring sediments, which could cause taste, odor, and turbidity problems for consumers. Eight fire hydrants had operational issues during our annual Fire Hydrant Flushing & Maintenance Program. All eight hydrants were rebuilt and put back into service.

WATER SYSTEM MAINTENANCE:

In 2024, the Water Division repaired six water main breaks, replaced eleven fire hydrants with new ones, and refurbished/rehabilitated eight hydrants. We also repaired and oversaw thirteen water service leaks and inspected twenty eight water services updated with new water pipe. We replaced 2,640 linear ft. of asbestos water main, with new ductile iron water main on Loring Road. The Water Division staff upgraded 82 water meters in 2024.

LEAD AND COPPER IN YOUR WATER:

The Town of Weston is concerned about lead and copper in drinking water. Although the water we supply to your home does not contain lead, the Weston Water Division tests water annually in twenty homes that may contain lead service lines, or plumbing or fixtures containing lead. The results of the annual lead and copper testing in our drinking water are shown in the table below. Also, two schools were tested, one public and one private, and both were below the Action Level for lead and copper.

SERVICE LINE INVENTORY: 

Under the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) required all public water systems to compile a water service line inventory (SLI) and submit it to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) by October 16, 2024. The Weston Water Division compiled information from over two centuries of drinking water system history and completed and submitted Weston’s SLI on schedule.

Based on best available records, the Town of Weston’s drinking water system currently contains no known lead water services and no known galvanized requiring replacement water services. All of Weston’s service lines were categorized as either “Non-Lead” or “Lead Status Unknown”. Of a total of 3,450 service lines, only 325 were not able to be fully categorized. The Town will continue to refine its SLI and investigate services with unknown information.

In November 2024, The Town mailed out notification letters to all properties that had a service line classification of Lead Status Unknown. These letters are the first step to verifying all water service line materials in Weston. In accordance with MassDEP requirements, the Town will need to have completed investigations and finalized its SLI by October 2027. At that time, the Town will begin the work associated with replacing any lead service lines and galvanized requiring replacement service lines that are identified. All required service line replacements must be completed by 2037.

To promote transparency about lead in drinking water, the LCRR requires public water systems to identify lead and lead-containing water service lines and make this information available to the public. If you have any questions about your water service line or want to schedule an appointment to view Weston’s Water Service Line Inventory, please email the Water Division westonwaterlines@westonma.gov or call us at 781-785-5100. The Town of Weston’s Department of Public Works is committed to providing the safest and highest quality water possible to our customers. For more information on the Water Department or upcoming meetings please go to our website at:
https://www.westonma.gov/306Water-Division or contact the Water Division at 781-786-5100.

Rich Sullivan, DPW Director
David Fava, Superintendent of Water Operations

Town of Winthrop
Department of Public Works
100 Kennedy Drive, Winthrop, MA 02152
Public Water Supply #3346000

The Winthrop Department of Public Works Water Division is pleased to provide this annual water quality report to keep you informed about our water distribution system.

Our Distribution System:

The Winthrop Water Division purchases all of its water directly from the MWRA. We are happy to have a partnership with the MWRA in our mission to supply some of the best quality water in the country. This water is delivered through a series of master meters and the pressure is regulated at the Town’s pressure reducing station before being conveyed through the network of buried water mains and ultimately to your home or business.

Meter Replacement Program: 

In an effort to enhance meter reading productivity and customer service, Winthrop has converted to a radio read system, and has just begun our next town-wide meter replacement project to replace aged meters and to ensure all water usage is being captured and accounted for. This initiative has helped reduce unaccounted for water and has enhanced our customer support capabilities.

Hydrant Flushing Program:

The Water Division has continued our 15-phase unidirectional flushing program. This is a very important program that helps maintain water quality by removing naturally occurring sediments in the water mains that can cause taste, odor, and turbidity problems for consumers. This program also serves the community by exercising gate valves and inspecting and testing hydrants to assure adequate fire protection. Two phases of this program were completed in 2024.

Water System Maintenance: 

The Water Division is responsible for operating and maintaining the Pressure Reducing Station, 46 miles of buried water main, a 1 million gallon capacity stand-pipe, 500 fire hydrants and the 4,500 service connections. In 2024 the Water Division repaired six water main breaks, and 100 full lead or partial lead services were relayed with copper to create a full copper service from the water main in the street to the connection with the water meter in the basement. 18 service replacements were performed by in-house staff and 82 replacements were performed as part of an MWRA funded lead service replacement project. The project, called Contract 11, started in March of 2024 and was completed in October of 2024. The Division also replaced 6 fire hydrants and repaired 2 more. The Town has also completed the Revere/Crest/Grovers water main replacement project that replaced over 2,500 feet of water mains, valves, and services.

Lead Sampling Results: 

The Winthrop Water Division is committed to reducing the amount of lead in our water distribution system, and is actively monitoring for excessive levels of lead and copper. This process includes regular sampling of our water for lead and copper, which is carried out either once or twice per year, depending on the previous year’s sampling results. The MassDEP lead Action Level is 15 ppb and the copper Action Level is 1300 ppb. We sampled twice in 2024, and the 90th percentile results for lead were below the Action Level in both rounds, as shown in the table below. Based on these results, Winthrop will only be required to sample for lead and copper in September 2025.

The Winthrop Water Division has taken the following steps to address lead and copper in our drinking water:

• We have completely identified all remaining lead services, and continue to update the database to account for converted services.
• We have continued our annual program to remove at least 14% of the remaining lead services in our distribution system annually.
• The Water Division is committed to making lead line replacement a priority in planning and defining scope for MWRA funded water main replacement projects.

In October of 2024, Winthrop completed an inventory of every service line (the small pipe that connects your home to the water main) and submitted it to MassDEP. In November, we mailed a letter to each property that our records indicated has a lead service line with information about the risks of lead and how to get the service line replaced. For a copy of the inventory, or to find out if you have a lead service line and how to get it replaced, please contact the phone numbers listed below.

Property owners with existing lead services, or anyone who has questions about lead or about the Water Division’s lead removal program, are encouraged to call the DPW at 617-846-1341 Ext. 2603, or email Director Steven Calla at: scalla@winthropma.gov. We urge owners of older homes and buildings to check the condition of the plumbing and, if possible, replace fittings that have leaded joints or lead solder. We also encourage you to review the information in this report to take practical steps to reduce exposure to lead and other common contaminants.

Lead and Copper Rule Notice Requirements: 

Each year Winthrop carries out lead and copper testing of water samples from Winthrop homes as required by the Lead and Copper Rule (310CMR22.06B). In 2024, samplers were notified of their results on-time, but Winthrop did not provide certification of the notification to MassDEP within 90 days, as required in 310 CMR 22.16A(6)(a). The certification was sent to MassDEP three days late. We submitted a compliance plan to MassDEP to correct the violation and we are providing information in this report as required.

Total Coliform Tests in Community Pipes: 

The Winthrop Water Division tests 12 samples twice per month to monitor the distribution system for total coliform bacteria. Coliforms are bacteria that are naturally present in the environment and are used as an indicator that other, potentially harmful, waterborne pathogens may be present or that a potential pathway exists through which contamination may enter the drinking water distribution system. The EPA requires that no more than 5% of the samples taken in a month may be positive. In 2024, Winthrop exceeded this requirement at multiple sample sites in the months of June through October, which resulted in Level 2 Assessments for each occurrence. A Level 2 Assessment is a study of the water system to identify potential problems and to determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria were found. We found coliforms indicating the need to look for potential problems in water treatment or distribution. When this occurs, we are required to conduct assessments to identify any problems and to report any problems that were found during the assessments. All assessments were completed and submitted to DEP for review, and no additional actions were required. We reported to DEP that the cause of the exceedances was suspected to be temperature related as warmer temperatures resulted in low chlorine residuals. As a result, the Water Department continued to institute the town-wide flushing program to eliminate aged water situations and replenish adequate chlorine residuals.

Leak Detection: 

The Water Division carries out an annual leak detection survey to help locate leaks and further reduce unaccounted for water. This past year, the survey was completed in July and identified 2 service leaks. Each leak was promptly repaired.

Backflow Protection:

The Water Division continues to enforce the DEP mandated cross connection control and prevention program to prevent contamination from entering our distribution system. In 2024, the department conducted 100 backflow prevention device tests town-wide.

We truly hope you find this report useful and informative. If you have further questions about your water or meetings, feel free to contact the Winthrop Water Division, the MWRA, or the DEP or EPA as listed herein.

Sincerely,
Steven R. Calla
Public Works Director / Water Superintendent