Flint water upgrade lags

Drinkable tap water for residents in Flint, Mich., might still be a few years away.

Retired National Guard Brig. Gen. Michael McDaniel, who is heading the pipe-replacement program, says he has an optimistic goal of 2019 for all lead piping to be replaced in the neighborhoods.

Pipe replacements are expected to pick up in late April, McDaniel said. Crews are replacing lead lines with copper ones in neighborhoods most affected.

So far, fewer than 800 homes have been upgraded, while an estimated 20,000 lines need to be replaced. Issues such as inaccurate city records and monetary issues have hindered progression.