Let that sink in.

After decades of progress and billions invested to clean up our waterways, the MWRA chose a plan that still permits sewage overflows during heavy rain. Instead of finishing the job, they voted to lock in pollution for the foreseeable future.

This isn’t what the Clean Water Act promised. Our rivers were supposed to be fishable and swimmable decades ago. And it’s not what residents expect from a water authority whose mission includes protecting public health and the environment.

The cost difference between this plan and a stronger, sewage-free alternative? Less than a few dollars per household per month.

Other cities have proven that clean, swimmable urban rivers are possible. So why not Boston?

The February 25 vote is not the final step. State and federal regulators must still review the plan, and public voices will matter.

If you believe the Charles River should be truly swimmable, not just cleaner than it used to be, now is the time to speak up. Join us in telling our leaders that it’s time to cut the crap going into the Charles River, once and for all.