New Jersey American Water’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program is continuing in Lakewood this week, with crews now canvassing neighborhoods in the northern section of the township.

According to NJ American Water’s qualified contractor, CDM Smith, crews are currently visiting homes within Census Tracts 7152.01, 7153.03, 7154.03 and 7154.04, covering areas generally located between Brook Road and Hope Chapel Road.

The canvassing is aimed at identifying properties that may have lead or galvanized steel water service lines as part of NJ American Water’s ongoing Lead Service Line Replacement Program.

The initiative follows a 2021 New Jersey law requiring water providers to identify and replace lead and galvanized steel service lines by 2031. A service line is the pipe connecting the water main in the street to a home or building and includes portions owned by both the utility and the property owner.

Residents and property owners can identify their service line themselves and submit photos to NJ American Water, or schedule a free in-person inspection at a convenient time. Inspections generally take approximately 15 minutes.

Authorized canvassers may also visit designated homes to assist residents. Representatives will wear clearly marked, high-visibility vests displaying New Jersey American Water and CDM Smith logos and will carry official identification. They will never ask residents for sensitive personal or financial information or documentation.

NJ American Water has also been sending informational materials in multiple languages directly to potentially affected customers explaining the inspection and identification process.

All canvassing, inspections and replacement work are being carried out solely by New Jersey American Water or its authorized contractors, not by Lakewood Township or another government agency. The effort is, however, being coordinated with Lakewood Township to help with public awareness and safety.

Lakewood residents may continue using their water as usual. NJ American Water says its water continues to meet all state and federal water quality standards, including standards related to lead.

Additional information, including an interactive service line inventory map and instructions for identifying service line materials, is available at newjerseyamwater.com/leadfacts. Residents may also email [email protected] or call CDM Smith at 732-590-4700 with questions.