A cancer-linked chemical has been detected in Loveland's drinking water above incoming federal limits, and the city secured $14 million in state funding to get it out.
The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency on Aug. 14, awarded Loveland $4 million in principal loan forgiveness and a $10 million interest-free loan to build a treatment system that will filter per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, from the city's groundwater supply, according to a city announcement.
The compound found above the new federal maximum of 4 parts per trillion is PFOS, a PFAS chemical the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency determined is "likely to cause cancer" when it finalized drinking water standards in April 2024. The city did not disclose the exact concentration detected.
Loveland draws its water from a groundwater aquifer and serves residents inside city limits plus portions of Symmes Township and Miami Township.
What the city says now
The city stressed that its water currently meets all existing state and federal standards. The new PFAS regulations do not take effect until 2031, and Loveland has been planning since March 2023.
"This funding is a significant investment in the future of Loveland's drinking water system," Mayor Kathy Bailey said. "We appreciate Ohio EPA's partnership in helping our community prepare for these new federal requirements. This assistance helps reduce the financial burden on our residents while allowing the City to continue providing safe, high-quality drinking water for years to come."
$17 million project, $3 million gap
The total construction cost is estimated at $17 million. The $14 million in state funding covers most of it.
That leaves a $3 million gap.
The city said it will continue pursuing state and federal grants to close that shortfall and minimize the hit to ratepayers.
Engineering firm AECOM is designing the treatment system. That design work is expected to wrap up by April 2027. No construction start date has been announced, but the federal compliance deadline is 2031.
How Loveland got here
The city's timeline stretches back more than three years:
- March 2023 — Staff partnered with an engineering firm to evaluate treatment options.
- November 2023 — Loveland City Council authorized a comprehensive treatment study.
- June 2024 — The study was completed with Ohio EPA funding assistance.
- May 2025 — Ohio EPA approved the city's required General Plan, unlocking eligibility for future funding.
- July 2025 — Ohio EPA approved $1.3 million in loan forgiveness to fund design work.
- Aug. 14, 2026 — Ohio EPA announces $4 million in forgiveness and $10 million interest-free loan for construction.
What are PFAS?
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used since the 1940s in nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, food packaging and cleaning products. They are often called "forever chemicals" because they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body. The EPA estimates that 6% to 10% of regulated water systems nationwide will need to take action under the new rule.
Residents with questions about their water quality can contact the City of Loveland's public works department.
