Lead service lines in Yonkers, NY
What you need to know
Yonkers serves about 212,750 people through 6 water systems. Across the city, 6 known lead service lines have been identified—the pipes that connect the public water main to individual homes and buildings. An additional 42 lines have unknown material status.
Lead service lines are a real concern: lead can leach into drinking water, especially in older homes or when water is corrosive. But the presence of a lead line doesn't automatically mean your water is unsafe. Much depends on your water's chemistry, pipe age, and whether treatment is in place.
Where lead has been found
The largest system serving Yonkers is YONKERS CITY (serving 211,569 people), which has reported 1 known lead service line. Smaller systems—including John F Kennedy High School, Westchester School for Special Children, Old Lyme Shopping Center, and View Hill Co-op Association—have also identified lead lines.
Because most of Yonkers is served by the city system, most residents are in the same utility. However, some neighborhoods may be served by smaller, independent systems.
What "unknown" means
The 42 lines of unknown material aren't necessarily lead—they may be copper, PVC, or other materials. "Unknown" typically means the utility hasn't yet physically verified the line or obtained historical records. New York State requires utilities to identify and inventory lead service lines, so this list should grow more complete over time.
What you can do
If you're concerned about lead in your home's water, start by contacting your water utility. They can tell you:
- Whether your home has a known lead service line
- Whether your water is being treated to reduce corrosion
- Whether you qualify for a free or subsidized replacement program
Testing your tap water is also an option. If results show elevated lead, a water filter certified for lead removal (NSF/ANSI 53 standard) can help while you arrange a line replacement.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask about your service line material. For most of Yonkers, that's the City of Yonkers water department.
- Ask about replacement programs—New York State and the EPA fund lead service line removal in many areas.
- Test your water if you have young children or are pregnant. Contact your health department for guidance or use a certified lab.
- Use a filter (NSF/ANSI 53 certified) on drinking and cooking water if you're awaiting a line replacement.
```json [ { "q": "Does Yonkers have lead in the water?", "a": "Yonkers has identified 6 known lead service lines across its water systems. Lead service lines can potentially allow lead into drinking water, but the actual level depends on water chemistry and whether corrosion treatment is used. Contact your utility to find out if your home has a lead line." }, { "q": "How do I know if my house has a lead service line?", "a": "Contact your local water utility (usually the City of Yonkers) and provide your address. They can check their inventory. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home—lead lines are typically dull gray and can be scratched with a coin." }, { "q": "Is lead in water dangerous for kids?", "a": "Lead exposure can affect children's development and learning. If you're concerned about lead in your home's water, test it and contact your pediatrician or local health department for guidance. The CDC has resources on lead and children's health." }, { "q": "Can I get my lead service line replaced for free?", "a": "New York State and federal programs fund some lead service line replacements. Contact your water utility or your city's environmental or health department to ask what programs you may qualify