Cost of replacing Flint water pipes double estimates, report shows

In this March 21, 2016, file photo, a lead main service line is exposed and measured as workers dig a hole to expose, remove and replace a lead main service line in Flint, Mich.
In this March 21, 2016, file photo, a lead main service line is exposed and measured as workers dig a hole to expose, remove and replace a lead main service line in Flint, Mich.

FLINT, Mich. — Replacing water pipes because of the lead-tainted crisis in Flint could be at least twice the price of previous estimates, according to a report.

Engineering company Rowe Professional Services told the state the average cost for replacing a service water line through a completed pilot project was $7,500. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality previously estimated it would cost $4,000, the Detroit Free Press reported Saturday.

The report notes other concerns arising during the pilot project, including lead-contaminated soil that needs to be properly handled and disposed.

The city already received $2 million from the state to replace about 500 lines. The state has authorized roughly $70 million in funds for the emergency, and Gov. Rick Snyder is seeking $165 million more through the budget process.

Still, higher costs could hamper negotiations among lawmakers as they deal with lower-than-expected tax revenue and enact a new state budget with less overall spending than initially proposed.

So far, 30 lead or galvanized service pipes have been replaced as part of the pilot project. Flint Mayor Karen Weaver said the city soon will issue requests for proposals to complete the next phase of the Fast Start pipe-replacement program.

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