On Tuesday evening, the Oswego Common Council will vote on a near‑$5.4 million contract to replace aging lead service lines in the city’s 2nd Ward. The bid, submitted by Nardozzi Paving and Construction LLC, totals $5,389,000 and covers the first phase of the city’s lead‑service‑line replacement project.
Funding secured through state programs
The project is being financed largely by the Governor’s Lead Infrastructure Forgiveness and Transformation program, which awarded Oswego funding in November. In addition, the city received $4,774,962 in interest‑free financing in December 2024, allowing the municipality to move quickly on the critical public‑health work.
Scope of the first phase
City officials plan to replace between 350 and 500 service lines in the 2nd Ward, an area identified as having some of the highest concentrations of lead pipes in Oswego. Replacing these lines will reduce the risk of lead exposure for residents, protect children’s health, and bring the city’s water system into compliance with modern safety standards.
Additional engineering support
The council will also consider authorizing $280,000 for GHD Consulting Services to provide construction‑phase engineering services. This expertise will help ensure the work proceeds on schedule and meets all regulatory requirements.
Legal counsel request on separate matter
In the same meeting, council members will address a request from the city’s attorney general to retain outside legal counsel. The request follows Attorney General Letitia James’ inquiry into a September 30 incident in which U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents engaged in a seven‑hour standoff with two men on a roof in Oswego. The council’s decision on legal representation will be made after public comment.
Public participation and next steps
The meeting begins at 7:15 p.m. with a period for public comment, and the council will move to the agenda items at 7:30 p.m. Residents are encouraged to attend and voice any concerns about the lead‑line replacement or the legal‑counsel request.
Why this matters to Oswego families
Replacing lead service lines is a direct investment in the health and safety of Oswego’s families. Lead exposure can cause serious developmental issues in children, and the city’s proactive approach aligns with the community’s commitment to protecting its youngest members. By leveraging state grants and interest‑free financing, Oswego is demonstrating fiscal responsibility while addressing a critical public‑health need.
City officials expect the first phase of the project to begin later this year, pending council approval. Ongoing updates will be provided through the city’s website and local news outlets.
Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
