Encouraging Lead Service Line Replacement in Disadvantaged Communities

This pilot study will lay the groundwork for a randomized evaluation aimed at studying the key drivers of household participation in a publicly funded environmental health intervention—the no-cost lead service line (LSL) replacement program—and at evaluating the program’s impact on tap water lead levels. Focusing on environmental justice and low-income neighborhoods in New York City, we will conduct qualitative fieldwork to identify informational, financial, behavioral, and logistical barriers to participation. We will also implement a small-scale randomized evaluation to assess the feasibility and obtain preliminary estimates of the effects of two encouragement strategies: (1) financial incentives to overcome concerns about hidden costs or burdens, (2) local group engagement to build trust by shifting the perceived management of the program from government agencies to a trusted community organization.