Jan. 26, 2026 – Redmond, WA City officials announced that two of Redmond’s municipal drinking water wells have been found to contain PFAS, a group of man-made chemicals linked to long-term health risks.
During a recent City Council meeting, Public Works Director Aaron Bert reported that routine testing detected PFAS contamination in Water Supply Wells No. 1 and No. 2, located near Anderson Park.
According to city officials, about 40 percent of Redmond’s drinking water comes from groundwater wells, with the remainder supplied by surface water sources such as the Tolt River.
PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not easily break down in the environment. They have been used in products such as firefighting foam, paints, and industrial cleaners.
Health agencies have linked long-term exposure to PFAS to increased risks of certain cancers, immune system impacts, pregnancy-related complications, and other health concerns.
City staff stated that the source of the contamination is currently unknown. However, the issue has raised concerns among residents, some of whom referenced past industrial activity and a large debris fire in 2013 that involved the use of firefighting foam near Evans Creek. At the time, such foams commonly contained PFAS.
The City Council has hired a consultant to develop a mitigation plan. Officials estimate the cost of removing and treating the contaminated water could range from $25 million to $30 million.
The council’s consultant is scheduled to present mitigation options during a public meeting on February 3 at 4:30 p.m. at Redmond City Hall. The meeting will also be available via live stream on Comcast Channel 21, according to city officials.
Residents with private wells have been encouraged to seek independent testing if they have concerns about their water quality.
City officials said additional updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
