The City of Kalamazoo has begun distributing free water filters to residents in the Edison neighborhood, southeast of downtown.

Through Friday, October 11, city staff will households between 9 a.m.-12 p.m. on Friday, September 6, September 13, September 20, September 27, October 4, and October 11. The distribution initiative is coordinated between the city’s Lead Service Line Replacement Project in the Edison and Eastwood neighborhoods and the Lead-Based Paint Remediation Project. The initiative began Friday, August 23.

The City of Kalamazoo’s water system does not have lead in its source or in its water mains. However, lead can enter drinking water from lead solder or pipes. The free water filters are certified to remove lead and usually last between 30-60 days, but this can vary on how much water a household uses.

Water customers outside of the Edison neighborhood can also request a free water filter. Free faucet or pitcher-style filters are available at the City’s Stockbridge Avenue location at 415 E Stockbridge Avenue. A faucet or pitcher-style filter and one additional box of filter cartridges will be provided to each customer. Customers are responsible for purchasing any additional replacement cartridges.

More information about the city’s lead water removal efforts can be found at www.kalamazoocity.org/lead.