UT study finds lead concerns in Austin's Colony water samples
A University of Texas at Austin study found some household water samples from Austin's Colony exceeded limits or guidelines for lead and other metals. Residents in the far East Austin neighborhood have long questioned the quality and cost of service from Texas Water Utilities.
Researchers surveyed 100 residents and collected 100 home water samples between April 2024 and October 2025, along with samples from the utility's water sources. Source water did not show the same problems, but some tap samples, especially discolored water, showed elevated lead and other metals including iron, copper and in some cases arsenic.
The study adds third party data to a long dispute between Austin's Colony residents and Texas Water Utilities, a private provider with a base fee far above Austin Water's. Filtration systems helped in many homes, but residents described the cost as a barrier, leaving families worried about routine uses such as cooking, brushing teeth and showering.