JUNCTION CITY, CITY OF – Lead Service Line Inventory
About this water system
Junction City serves approximately 19,167 people in Kansas. The city's water comes from groundwater sources.
Lead service lines: what we know right now
As of our last update, Junction City has not yet inventoried its lead service lines. This means the city does not have a public count of how many homes are connected to lead pipes.
This is not unusual. Many smaller water systems across the US are still in the early stages of mapping their service lines. The federal Lead and Copper Rule requires all public water systems to complete this inventory by October 2024, so Junction City may be working toward that deadline now.
What this means for your home
If your home was built before 1986, there is a higher chance it has a lead service line. Lead service lines are the pipes that run from the street main into your house. Even if your water system doesn't have numbers yet, you can:
- Ask your water utility directly. Contact Junction City's water department and ask about your address specifically. They may have records even if they haven't published a full inventory yet.
- Check your home's age and previous inspections. Homes built in the 1980s or earlier are more likely to have lead lines.
- Test your water. A simple water test can tell you if lead is present in your tap water right now. Some water systems offer free test kits; ask your utility.
Reducing lead exposure
If you suspect a lead service line or have concerns about lead in your water:
- Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking if the tap hasn't been used for several hours.
- Use cold water for cooking and drinking (hot water leaches lead faster).
- Consider a point-of-use filter certified to remove lead (look for NSF 53 certification).
- Contact your pediatrician if you have young children; they can order a blood lead test if needed.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility: Call or email Junction City's water department and ask about lead service lines at your address.
- Request an updated inventory: Ask when the city will publish its complete lead service line inventory.
- Get your water tested: Ask if Junction City offers free lead testing kits or lab tests.
- Check for federal funding: The city may receive grant money to replace lead lines—ask if you qualify for assistance programs.
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Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if I have a lead service line?
The surest way is to ask your water utility—they may have records for your specific address. You can also look at your water meter pit or where the service line enters your house; lead pipes are soft gray metal. A magnet won't stick to lead, but it will stick to galvanized steel.
Is lead in the water dangerous?
Lead can be harmful, especially for children and pregnant people. There is no safe level of lead. If you're concerned about health effects, contact your pediatrician or call the CDC's lead hotline at 1-800-CDC-INFO.
Do I have to replace my lead service line?
It depends on your state and utility rules. Some states require replacement; others make it optional. Contact Junction City's water department to find out what applies to you. They may also have grant programs to help cover the cost.
Can I filter lead out of my tap water?
Some filters work. Look for ones certified by NSF International (NSF 53 or NSF 58) to remove lead. Pitcher filters and faucet-mounted filters may reduce lead, but a point-of-use reverse osmosis system is most reliable. Test your water before and after to be sure.