Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

MWRA's Revised Plan: Soaring Costs and CSO Concerns

2/5/2026

43 9

Summary

Story summary

Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) revised its plan to reduce CSOs into Charles River, Mystic River, and Alewife Brook, targeting rainfall.
The approach could raise sewer charges from $999 in 2029 to $2,380 by 2050.
Advocates say the plan does not fully eliminate CSOs.
MWRA staff report an 88% reduction in CSOs since the late 1980s.
Draft plan is set for MWRA board review on February 25 or March 18.

1 of 1

Story summary

Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) revised its plan to reduce CSOs into Charles River, Mystic River, and Alewife Brook, targeting rainfall.
The approach could raise sewer charges from $999 in 2029 to $2,380 by 2050.
Advocates say the plan does not fully eliminate CSOs.
MWRA staff report an 88% reduction in CSOs since the late 1980s.
Draft plan is set for MWRA board review on February 25 or March 18.