This high-resolution study of lead in urban moss (*Orthotrichum lyellii*) in Portland, Oregon reveals heterogeneous lead distributions linked to neighborhood age and lead sources. Leaded gasoline remains a persistent source, even decades after its phase-out. The highest lead levels are associated with relic lead-sheathed telecommunication cables, highlighting their significant contribution to environmental lead contamination. Further research is needed to quantify the impact of these cables on human exposure.