Lead Risk From Old Telephone Cables
February 12, 2024
On February 5, 2024, Sarita Hudson joined U.S. Senator Ed Markey for a demonstration of lead soil testing in Chicopee and a roundtable discussion. Before the 1960s, telephone cables were sheathed in lead. Over time, weather and friction cause the lead to fall off and contaminate the ground. These gray overhead cables are ubiquitous across the country. Markey is calling for a comprehensive study and remedial action.
Media Coverage:
- Markey.senate.gov, Senator Markey Hosts Roundtable in Western Massachusetts on Threat of Lead Contamination From Degrading Telecommunications Cables, Find Unsafe Levels of Lead After Testing Cables Today in Chicopee
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On February 9, 2026, the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts convened partners and legislators to celebrate the FY26 earmark for 413Cares.org and to share updates on major regional initiatives. PHIWM extends deep appreciation to Representative Michael Finn, Senator Adam Gomez, and the entire Western Massachusetts legislative delegation for their continued partnership and support for 413Cares.org , which remains a critical tool for connecting Western MA residents to help when they need it most. 413Cares.org saw major growth in 2025, with searches doubling and the number of users increasing more than fourfold. Check out photos from the gathering below!
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