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Lead service lines in Rio Grande, NJ

6 water utilities serve Rio Grande, with approximately 219,627 people served.

Last verified from EPA SDWIS + utility inventories: 2026-04-14
Known lead
7,349
Galvanized
0
Unknown
0
% unknown
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Lead Service Lines in Rio Grande, NJ

What you need to know

Rio Grande's water systems serve about 219,627 people across 6 different utilities. The largest is Wildwood City Water Department, which serves 218,472 residents and has identified 7,349 lead service lines in its inventory.

Lead service lines are pipes that carry water from the water main in the street to your home. They were common in older neighborhoods because lead is durable and easy to work with. The problem: lead can leach into drinking water, especially if the water is acidic or sits in the pipes for hours.

Lead service lines in your area

Wildwood City Water Department has confirmed 7,349 lead service lines. This is a significant number, but it's also important to know: identification is the first step toward replacement. Once utilities know where these lines are, they can plan removal projects and offer help to residents.

The other five water systems in Rio Grande serve much smaller populations (86 to 650 people each) and have not yet reported lead service line counts to the state.

Why this matters

If your home is connected to a lead service line, the risk is real but manageable:

  • Lead exposure is highest in young children and pregnant people.
  • You can reduce risk by flushing your tap, using cold water for drinking and cooking, and having your water tested.
  • The only permanent fix is replacing the line.

Utilities are now required by federal law to inventory lead service lines and develop replacement plans. Wildwood City Water Department's identification of 7,349 lines shows this work is underway in your area.

Next steps for residents

  • Contact Wildwood City Water Department to ask if your address has a lead service line. (If you're on a different system listed below, contact that utility directly.)
  • Request a free water test through your utility if you're concerned about lead levels.
  • Visit the EPA's guide on what you can do right now to reduce exposure (flushing, point-of-use filters, etc.).
  • Ask your utility about replacement programs — many now offer financial assistance or full coverage for line replacement.

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Utilities serving Rio Grande

Common questions

How do I know if I have a lead service line?

Contact Wildwood City Water Department or your local utility with your address. They can check their inventory for you. You can also look at the pipe where it enters your home — lead is soft, gray, and leaves a black mark if you scratch it with a coin (don't do this; it's just for identification).

Is the water in Rio Grande safe to drink?

Wildwood City Water Department tests water quality regularly and reports results to regulators. Lead service lines are one source of risk, but not the only factor. If you're concerned, request a free water test from your utility, and talk to a pediatrician if you have young children.

What does it cost to replace a lead service line?

Replacement costs vary, but many utilities now offer grants or subsidized programs. Contact Wildwood City Water Department to ask about their replacement program and what portion (if any) homeowners are responsible for paying.

Can I use a water filter to remove lead?

Some filters reduce lead, but they require regular replacement and are not a permanent solution. A filter can help while you're waiting for line replacement, but ask your utility which filters are certified to remove lead before buying one.