Kearney City Secures $4M Loan for Lead Line Replacement Project

In the heart of Kearney, city officials gathered to discuss vital infrastructure projects that promise to enhance the community's safety and livability. The Planning Commission meeting on August 15, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in the city’s efforts to replace lead service lines, a project that has garnered both state support and community interest.

Each year, Kearney undertakes the replacement of approximately 200 service lines, focusing on homes identified as having lead pipes. This initiative is bolstered by a $4 million state revolving fund loan, which comes with a remarkable 0% interest rate. Notably, nearly $3 million of this loan has been forgiven, reducing the city's financial burden to about $1.1 million over five years. The urgency of this project is underscored by the expectation that federal mandates for lead line replacements may soon be enacted, prompting the city to act swiftly while funding is available.

The designated area for this project includes 1,000 addresses, primarily in a park area of Kearney. While the city is making strides, the process requires homeowner participation. Property owners must agree to the replacement, often facilitated by city outreach efforts. However, reaching these owners can be challenging, especially in rental properties where tenants may not be aware of the lead line issues.

In addition to the lead service line project, the meeting also touched on other infrastructure improvements, including street and asphalt replacement initiatives. The city has budgeted $390,000 for miscellaneous street improvements, with any unspent funds rolling over into the next fiscal year. This budgeting strategy ensures that resources are effectively utilized, although the city has seen a decline in the number of district projects in recent years.

As the meeting concluded, the city introduced Brian Schultz, the new assistant director, who brings a wealth of experience from his previous role in Grand Island. His leadership is expected to guide Kearney through its ongoing infrastructure challenges and improvements.

With these projects underway, Kearney is not only addressing immediate public health concerns but also laying the groundwork for a safer and more resilient community. As the city continues to navigate these developments, residents can look forward to a future where essential services are both reliable and safe.