Revitalizing Boston's Charles River

The Charles River is one of the country's most celebrated rivers, but it suffers from neglect and lack of access.

1 minute read

October 23, 2000, 4:00 AM PDT

By Laura Kraft


"he Charles River is cleaner than it has been in two centuries. The days when a dip in the water inspired fears of hepatitis and diarrhea are gone, replaced by hope of public swimming by 2005.But as thousands crowd the banks for the annual Head of the Charles Regatta, the waterway dubbed ''The People's River'' more than 20 years ago by one ardent activist still has a serious problem: The river may be cleaner, but the riverfront remains a mess, wholly unprepared for its increasing popularity."

Thanks to Laura Krafft

Sunday, October 22, 2000 in The Boston Globe

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