Town of Westerly Launches EquiFlow Westerly, a Major Initiative to Eliminate as Many as 2,000 Lead Service Lines Over Two Years

Westerly, RI (May 11, 2026) - The Town of Westerly today announced the launch of the Westerly EquiFlow Lead Replacement Project (“EquiFlow Westerly”), a major $20 million public health initiative that will remove as many as 2,000 lead service lines (LSLs) across 2026 and 2027. Delivered in partnership with Community Infrastructure Partners (CIP), the program uses the EquiFlow model, an outcomes-based, performance-driven approach designed to accelerate replacements, strengthen transparency, and ensure that funding produces measurable results.

Westerly has secured a $1.8 million grant from a congressional earmark to support program launch and early-stage work. The remaining funding is expected through the Rhode Island State Revolving Fund, a joint program administered by the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank and the Rhode Island Department of Health. Westerly is included in the State’s Intended Use Plan for a $20 million, 0% interest SRF loan.

“Protecting the health of our residents is one of our most fundamental responsibilities, and removing lead service lines is among the most important actions we can take to ensure community-centered wellbeing,” said Shawn Lacey, Town Manager. “EquiFlow Westerly brings us a modern, accountable, and community-centered way to eliminate lead quickly. This partnership ensures that every dollar is tied directly to results, every decision puts residents first, and every replacement moves us toward a healthier, more resilient future.”

The EquiFlow model is a fundamental approach, in contrast to the traditional time-and-materials engineering approach used in many communities nationwide. As demonstrated in other LSLR programs, conventional engineering delivery often leads to slower progress, higher costs, and limited transparency. CIP’s model aligns compensation directly with completed LSL replacements—not hours billed—ensuring speed, efficiency, and accountability. This structure has delivered nationally recognized results, including more than 2,100 LSL replacements in just 18 months in Wausau, WI, and a five-year plan to eliminate more than 10,000 LSLs in Racine, WI.

“Across the country, communities are discovering that the structure of a lead replacement program matters just as much as its funding,” said Shawn Kerachsky, President & CEO of CIP. “Traditional engineering models often incentivize slow, expensive work. Under the EquiFlow structure, we only get paid when lines are replaced - period. Westerly’s leadership is sending a clear message: public health comes first, residents deserve urgency, and every dollar should deliver maximum impact. We are proud to partner with a community that is choosing a faster, more accountable path to eliminating lead.”

A central element of EquiFlow Westerly will be robust outreach, resident support, and transparent communication. CIP’s national experience has shown that successful programs depend as much on engaging residents and securing access to properties as on construction activity itself. Effective outreach through local partnerships, educational materials, door-to-door canvassing, and 24/7 information access ensures that homeowners understand the health risks of lead exposure and are prepared for the replacement process. Westerly will use these proven techniques to build trust, increase participation, and ensure efficient sequencing of replacements.

“EquiFlow Westerly is not just replacing pipes; it is protecting children, families, and future generations,” Lacey added. “Our community deserves clean water, modern infrastructure, and a transparent process they can trust. This program delivers all three.”

By pairing responsible financing with a nationally recognized delivery model, Westerly is positioning itself as a leader in modern, public‑health‑driven infrastructure. Planning and mobilization will begin immediately, with resident outreach and material verification expanding throughout 2026 as construction crews begin replacement activity.

Residents will receive direct communication as their neighborhood becomes eligible for replacements, including information on program benefits, timelines, and coordination requirements. Additional updates will be provided through the Town’s website and community channels.

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About the Town of Westerly

The Town of Westerly is a vibrant coastal community located in southwestern Rhode Island, known for its rich history, scenic shoreline, and strong sense of civic pride. Home to diverse neighborhoods, thriving small businesses, and some of the state’s most visited natural and recreational destinations, Westerly is committed to preserving its unique character while investing in the health, safety, and well‑being of all residents. Through responsible governance, strategic infrastructure planning, and a long-standing dedication to community partnership, the Town continues to build a resilient, forward‑looking foundation for future generations.