Alternative Procurement Options for Lead Service Line Replacement

State legislation enacted in July 2021 requires water utilities in New Jersey to replace lead service lines (LSLs) within 10 years (i.e., by 2031). Under the best of circumstances, state and federal aid will likely fall far short of the estimated statewide cost of $2.3 billion and, as water utilities seek to perform the work within the deadline, supply and demand for contractor services could increase prices. This paper addresses the question: What alternative contracting techniques could help ensure the best price and accelerate project schedules to protect public health and comply with regulations?