As the Mayor of Trenton, NJ, I am deeply committed to ensuring the health and safety of our community, especially our children. Trenton, with its rich industrial history, has long been a hub of innovation and production, from the Roebling Steel Mills to the renowned porcelain and pottery factories that crafted the White House china for decades. However, this legacy also comes with a significant challenge: lead contamination.

Our city’s older infrastructure and housing stock, combined with historical industrial activity, have left a lasting impact on our environment. Recent testing by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has confirmed what we feared—elevated lead levels in the soil across various areas of Trenton. This is not just an environmental concern but a pressing public health issue that demands immediate action.

Lead exposure, particularly in children, poses severe health risks. Even low levels of lead can affect a child’s development, leading to cognitive impairments, behavioral issues, and other serious health problems. The legacy of lead-based paint in older homes and lead pipes in our water system only compounds this issue, creating a hidden threat that many families may not be fully aware of.

That is why we are taking a multi-faceted approach to address this crisis. In collaboration with the EPA, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), and various non-profit organizations, we are undertaking a comprehensive effort to tackle lead contamination in our city. This includes testing children for lead exposure, inspecting and remediating housing, and cleaning up contaminated soil.

To support these efforts and provide critical information to our community, we are hosting a Health Fair this Saturday, August 10, at Cadwalader Park. This event will not only offer a fun day out for families but also serve as an important opportunity to address the lead issue head-on.

At the Health Fair, we will have mobile health units on-site to conduct lead testing for children. If lead is detected, we will offer counseling on the next steps and how to mitigate exposure. We will also provide information on identifying lead content in household items like toys, cookware, and dinnerware.

Knowledge is our greatest ally in this fight. By becoming informed about the dangers of lead and taking proactive steps, we can protect our children and make a tangible difference in our community. We encourage all Trenton families to participate in this event, take advantage of the free lead testing, and learn how to keep their homes and families safe.

But this effort cannot succeed without the support of every resident. We need everyone to join us in the mission to “get the lead out” of Trenton. By working together, we can create a healthier, safer environment for our children and future generations.

Let’s stand united in this cause. Together, we can ensure that Trenton remains a city where our children can grow, thrive, and reach their full potential—free from the harmful effects of lead exposure.

W. Reed Gusciora

Mayor of Trenton, NJ

The post Honorable Mayor Reed Gusciora Pens Op-ed on the Urgent Need to “Get the Lead Out” of Trenton first appeared on TrentonDaily.