Sil14

What are the average sizes of the mains that run throughout the city? What about slip lining the main trunk lines that service the majority of the system to reduce lead leeching into the system? Since you say that total replacement is not an option, obviously identifying and replacing portions of the system with the highest concentrations of lead/oldest would still be an option? Of course if Flint river water is that corrosive, it is only compounds the issue. Realistically, you cannot remove ALL sources of possible lead contamination - its not possible, like you said. Brass fittings and lead solder is not necessarily a problem.

Multiple lawsuits will be filed as a result of decisions made by the governmental and water authorities. That's an easy bet. Clearly there was negligence on many parts, if not outright deception or ignorance. It should have never gotten to this point, obviously. What remains to be seen is how the problem is ultimately addressed once the dust has settled. Simply installing a new water main to a supply that meets water quality standards that continues to use infrastructure in need of repair or replacement is obviously not a long term solution.

I don't need hard evidence, I was simply asking a question. I'm an environmental/civil engineer and this thread interests me is why I'm asking. I was not trolling you. My questions would have been a lot more abrasive if that were the case. I asked about the houses and lead concentrations as your comments do actually suggest the "lead laden" homes when demolished are leeching into the subsurface. You said: "My understanding is little to no lead abatement standards are in place for these demolitions and the soil at and around these sites may also be leaching lead into the local water shed." That statement does suggest that leeching is taking place. Which is why I asked if there are documented cases already showing as such.

I am curious.. How do you know "A large fraction of Flint residents don't pay their water bills"? What is the percentage? And is this a case of the residents simply not having the financial means to pay or a case of no enforcement or repercussions? Also curious about your comments concerning demolitions of "lead laden" houses. Are there documented cases of house demolitions causing lead leeching at high concentrations?