Congressman Frank Pallone Jr. (NJ-06) has secured $2 million in federal funding for two Monmouth County drinking water infrastructure projects in Red Bank and Matawan, aimed at removing lead pipes from local water systems.
The funding includes $1 million for Red Bank to remove and replace aging lead pipes that pose a risk to the community’s drinking water. Local officials have warned that deteriorating lead infrastructure could contaminate water across the system if left unaddressed.
A separate $1 million allocation will go to Matawan to identify and remove all remaining lead service lines, eliminating a major source of potential lead exposure and improving confidence in the safety of tap water.
“Without this federal funding, Red Bank and Matawan would be forced to pass these costs onto local taxpayers or delay critical upgrades,” said Pallone.
“That’s why I have fought so hard to not only secure this funding, but to deliver $1 million for both municipalities to replace these outdated lead pipes. Clean, safe drinking water is the foundation of a healthy community.”
Lead pipes and service lines are a well-documented public health hazard, particularly in older communities where the infrastructure predates modern safety standards. Even low levels of lead exposure have been linked to long-term health risks, including developmental harm to children.
“This $1 million investment represents a meaningful partnership that further strengthens Red Bank’s ability to protect public health and ensure the long-term safety of our drinking water system,” said Mayor Billy Portman.
“The Borough has been aggressive and swift in meeting its statutory responsibility to remove and replace lead service lines well ahead of the 2031 deadline, and this funding helps us sustain that momentum.
“Support like this not only keeps a massive, multiyear infrastructure project on track but also reduces the financial burden on local ratepayers while accelerating our goal of providing safe, reliable drinking water for every resident. We are truly thankful for this funding and the consideration given to Red Bank as we continue this critical work.”
“Congressman Pallone’s success in including $1 million for Matawan’s lead service line initiative in the Interior and Environment Appropriations bill is a significant milestone for our community,” said Mayor Joseph Altomonte.
“While this project was previously approved by Congress but later withheld by the executive branch, Congressman Pallone has remained steadfast in advocating for Matawan to ensure this critical funding is restored.
“This support will allow the Borough to continue thorough system evaluations and make targeted infrastructure improvements where appropriate, without placing a financial burden on our ratepayers. We are deeply grateful for the Congressman’s continued dedication and unwavering support.”
The funding was requested by Pallone through the Fiscal Year 2026 Community Project Funding process, which allows members of Congress to direct federal resources toward priority infrastructure needs in their districts.
Both projects are intended to accelerate pipe replacement while offsetting costs that would otherwise fall on local governments and ratepayers.
