April 23, 2025

Boston Aims for Cleaner Charles River Amid Portland’s Success

News Summary

Boston is looking to leverage recent successes from cities like Portland, Oregon, to achieve cleaner waterways, specifically in the Charles River. With significant sewage discharges during rainstorms posing health risks, the city recognizes the need for urgent investments in infrastructure to ensure safer recreational water activities. Proposed solutions like underground tunnels and green infrastructure could help reclaim urban beaches and improve water quality, making the Charles River a healthier destination for residents and visitors alike.

Boston Aims for Cleaner Charles River Amid Portland’s Remarkable Success

Boston, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture, is now setting its sights on achieving cleaner waterways, particularly in the beloved Charles River. With recent successes in cities like Portland, Oregon, where residents celebrated a full year without any sewage discharges into the Willamette River, Boston has the perfect opportunity to follow suit. Swimming and paddling in an urban river is no small feat, and the positive changes in Portland show just what is possible with the right investments and commitment.

Current Challenges Pose a Health Risk

Unfortunately, Boston is facing a recurring problem where every major rainstorm leads to sewage discharges into the Charles River. The consequences are concerning for anyone looking to enjoy recreational activities by the water. In fact, over the past two years, more than 100 million gallons of sewage have flowed into the Charles during 63 storm events. Because of this, swimming is normally prohibited unless one obtains a special permit. Not to mention, rowers, paddlers, and sailors find themselves restricted from entering the water for a full 48 hours after a sewage discharge. That’s a long time to wait when you’re eager to get out on the water!

Investments Needed for a Cleaner Future

For Boston to achieve a Charles River that’s safe for swimming, much like Portland, significant investments are needed. While Boston has made substantial progress in maintaining cleaner waters since the 1980s—thanks to initiatives like the Deer Island Wastewater Treatment Plant and billions spent on infrastructure upgrades—there are still areas that need urgent attention. Specifically, there are 10 locations along the river in Boston and Cambridge that continue to suffer from the outdated combined sewer infrastructure, causing these troublesome discharges during rainstorms.

Exciting Proposal on the Table

One proposed solution is an impressive underground tunnel that would span four miles and reach up to 32 feet in diameter, designed to store stormwater and prevent sewage overflow. This project, proposed by groups including the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, Cambridge, and Somerville, comes with a hefty estimated cost of $1.4 billion to $2.3 billion. But let’s consider the bigger picture—cleaning up Boston Harbor, which once cost over $5 billion, has yielded economic benefits estimated between $30 billion to $100 billion. With similar projects successfully developed in Portland and Paris, Boston has compelling examples to draw inspiration from.

Proven Success Stories

A successful example is seen in South Boston, where the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority constructed a combined sewer overflow (CSO) storage tunnel. The completion of this project significantly reduced combined sewer overflows in that area, with celebrations marking the event back in 2011, spearheaded by then-governor Deval Patrick. This success underscores the potential for similar positive changes in the Charles River.

Incorporating Green Infrastructure

An additional aspect that could improve the situation is the integration of green infrastructure. Simple solutions like rain gardens and bioswales can help with stormwater management, which can bring down construction costs while enhancing the urban landscape.

Reclaiming Beaches for Recreation

Imagine the joy of reclaiming beaches along the Charles River—like Magazine Beach or Charlesbank Beach—offering urban oases where city dwellers can relax and enjoy water activities as summer days heat up. With Earth Day on the horizon, this serves as an essential reminder for Boston to renew its commitment to improving the Charles River and restoring its beautiful beaches for everyone to enjoy.

As Boston looks toward the future, the aim to create a cleaner Charles River is not just ambitious but necessary for a thriving community. After all, a healthier river means a healthier city, and the time for action is now!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER

BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER

ADD MORE INFORMATION OR CONTRIBUTE TO OUR ARTICLE CLICK HERE!

Stay Connected

More Updates

Brooke Henderson celebrating victory at CPKC Women’s Open

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit