The Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) manages the largest and oldest system of its kind in New England, providing drinking water and sewer services to more than one million people daily.

BWSC was created by the Massachusetts Legislature in 1977, replacing separate water and sewer divisions of the city’s Public Works Department. BWSC is overseen by a three-member Board of Commissioners that is appointed by the Mayor with the approval of the City Council.

Goals

The goal of BWSC is to provide residents and businesses in the city of Boston with the best quality water and sewer services available in a way that is both protective of the environment and financially prudent.

History

For over 40 years BWSC has consistently delivered high-quality drinkable water and efficient sanitary sewer services to over a million people every day with fiscal integrity in a manner that protects and promotes public health. BWSC's system comes from an extensive and detailed water and sewer history in the City of Boston dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

Water, Sewer and Stormwater Systems
 

BWSC and the MWRA

MWRA Logo

The Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) is the wholesale provider of water and sewer services to 61 communities in the metropolitan Boston area. BWSC purchases treated water and wastewater treatment services from MWRA. The BWSC is the MWRA's largest single customer for both water and sewer services, and MWRA charges represent the largest single component of BWSC's operating expenses.

Visit the MWRA