Replacing Lead Pipes in New Orleans: CDM Smith’s Commitment to Safer Water
proven national experience
Across the U.S., CDM Smith has helped cities like New York, Newark, Washington, DC, Chicago, and Milwaukee replace more than 63,000 lead service lines. Our team knows what it takes to plan programs that meet federal requirements, protect public health, and avoid costly delays.
We’ve learned that carefully planning lead service line replacement programs from the outset is essential to their success. It’s the key to earning community trust while avoiding expensive and time-consuming re-work. That means balancing the early pace of removing lead with taking the time to thoughtfully put each piece of the program in place – from data systems to customer engagement to construction specifications.
strong local partnerships
In New Orleans, we’re building on over 45 years of experience delivering major infrastructure projects. For this program, CDM Smith has teamed with Thrive New Orleans, the LSU School of Public Health, Ragusa Consulting, and other trusted local partners. Together, we’ll engage neighborhood associations, faith leaders, and community groups while creating local job opportunities.
Improving public health in New Orleans through our partnership and program experience is our top priority. Our dedicated team is ready to get to work—and get the lead out! 
what residents can expect
- Careful Planning: Every step is designed to balance speed with thoroughness, promoting safe, efficient work, while prioritizing the most vulnerable populations safe, efficient work.
- Clear Communications: Homeowners will receive advance notice, and our team will be available to answer questions by phone, text or email in multiple languages.
- Safe Construction Practices: Work areas will be managed to minimize disruption and prioritize resident safety.
Our goal is clear: promote public health by getting the lead out of New Orleans’ drinking water infrastructure. With a proven track record, trusted local partners, and a commitment to the community, we're ready to deliver results safely, quickly, and for generations to come.
what to expect from a lead service line replacement program
Explore how our proposed replacement approach will work in New Orleans—through the eyes of the customer!!
With more than 63,000 lead service line replacements under our belt, CDM Smith has done the work to understand how to efficiently deliver the SWBNO Lead Line Removal program.
Lead service line replacement programs require experienced management to navigate technical, regulatory, and community challenges. When Washington, D.C. launched their Lead-Free DC program, they relied on Program Manager Brian Farrelly to lead the effort. His strategic approach exemplifies the dedicated leadership our team will bring to New Orleans.
"As the Start-Up Program Manager for the Lead-Free DC LSLR Program, Brian played a pivotal role in fostering a culture of collaboration with our team and program stakeholders. His early initiatives, including the establishment of CIPs and implementation of a comprehensive community outreach plan, have set a strong foundation that has positioned us for accelerated success," said William Elledge, PE, PMP of DC Water.
I'm excited to apply our lessons learned from major programs in other large and historic cities across the US, to efficiently replace lead service lines in New Orleans.
meet the brains behind the operation
where we've made our mark
