GRETNA, CITY OF Lead Service Line Inventory
What you need to know
The City of Gretna serves about 8,661 residents in Nebraska. Like all US water utilities, Gretna is required to create and maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to homes.
As of now, Gretna has not yet completed a full inventory. This doesn't mean there are no lead lines; it means the work to identify them is still underway or not yet started.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are a real concern. If your home was built before the 1980s, there's a higher chance your water line contains lead. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially if the water is acidic or if pipes are disturbed.
The good news: lead is easy to manage. You can't see, taste, or smell it, but a simple test can tell you whether lead is present in your tap water right now.
What Gretna is doing
Federal law requires all water systems to identify lead lines and develop a replacement plan. Gretna is part of this national effort. The specifics of their timeline and funding status are not yet public—which is common for utilities still in early phases of inventory work.
What you should do now
Your safest bet is to check your own water. Contact Gretna directly to ask:
- Whether your address has a known lead service line
- How to get your tap water tested for lead (the utility may offer free or low-cost testing)
- Whether your home's interior plumbing contains lead solder or brass fittings
If you have young children or are pregnant, the CDC recommends being especially cautious. A pediatrician can advise on testing and steps to reduce exposure.
Next steps for residents
- Call the City of Gretna water department and ask if a lead service line inventory exists for your address
- Request a free water test if available through your utility
- Ask about flushing guidelines: running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking can help if lead is present
- Contact the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services if you have questions your utility can't answer
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Gretna have lead service lines?
Gretna has not yet completed a full inventory, so it's unknown how many lead lines exist in the system. To find out if your home has one, contact the City of Gretna water department directly with your address.
How do I know if my water has lead?
The only way to know is to test your tap water. Ask Gretna if they offer free or low-cost testing, or you can buy a lead test kit. Lead has no taste, color, or smell.
Is it safe to drink water from Gretna?
Gretna's water is tested regularly for safety. However, if you have a lead service line, lead can leach into your water at home. A water test will tell you whether lead is actually present in your tap.
How much will it cost to replace a lead service line?
Replacement costs vary, but contact Gretna first—they may have programs or funding to help cover costs. The city is required to develop a replacement plan, which may include assistance for residents.