Per New Jersey American Water (NJAW)’s qualified contractor, CDM Smith; crews are currently canvassing homes within the 7153.01 and 7154.03 census tracts in the northern section of Lakewood – from North Lake Drive until Park Avenue – for potential lead service line replacement. (See attached map for detailed locations.)

As previously reported on TLS, this program is part of NJAW’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program, which follows a 2021 state law that requires all water providers to identify and replace lead and galvanized steel service lines by 2031. A service line is the pipe that brings water from the water main in the street into a home or building. It includes both the portion owned by New Jersey American Water and the portion owned by the property owner.

Residents and property owners can self-identify and report their water service pipe with photos to New Jersey American Water or schedule an in-person inspection during a time that’s convenient for them. New Jersey American Water has sent, and will continue to send, informational materials in multiple languages directly to potentially affected customers explaining how to proceed with either of these options.

In addition, authorized canvassers may proactively visit designated properties to assist customers. Inspections are free and typically take only approximately 15 minutes. Canvassers will never ask residents to share any sensitive personal or financial information, or documentation. Canvassers will wear clearly marked, high-visibility vests displaying New Jersey American Water and CDM Smith logos and carry official identification.

All canvassing, inspections, and any replacement work are performed solely by New Jersey American Water or its authorized contractors, not by Lakewood Township or any other government agency. At the same time, this effort has been coordinated with Lakewood Township to support public awareness and safety.

In the interim, Lakewood residents may continue to use their water as usual. Water provided by New Jersey American Water continues to meet all state and federal water quality standards, including those for lead. Additional program resources, an interactive service line inventory map, and tools to self-identify service line materials are available at newjerseyamwater.com/leadfacts.  Questions not addressed on the utility’s website may be directed to the New Jersey American Water Lead Team via email at [email protected] or by calling CDM Smith at 732-590-4700.