NEW ORLEANS, LA - On Wednesday, December 17, 2025, the Public Works Committee met with representatives from the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans to discuss updates on the Lead Service Line Replacement program.

Randy Hayman, Executive Director of the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans, outlined the progress and future steps for the Lead Service Line Replacement Program. Per the Lead and Copper Rule Improvement (LCRI) compliance order, all lead service lines must be removed by 2037, which will cost approximately $1 billion to replace all lines across Orleans Parish. However, this initiative currently lacks funding.

Hayman also highlighted the program’s timeline, which centers on procuring a project management firm to support it. Due to bidding protests, the procurement contract will likely be readvertised in Q1 2026. The Board aims to have the contract negotiated and awarded by Q3 2026.

When asked about the delayed timeline, the Executive Director explained that the selection process did not align with the RFP, which could impact reimbursement from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The Committee agreed that the program must be handled correctly and efficiently, but also stressed the importance of moving it forward as quickly as possible to benefit the community. Additionally, the Committee requested that an emergency advancement be implemented for the program, which Hayman acknowledged the SWBNO was interested in and would consider.

View the full presentation here.

To view the meeting agenda click here, or watch the full meeting on YouTube.