Shaping A Resilient And Inclusive Waterfront

The Boston Waterfront Coalition, formally known as the Coalition for a Resilient and Inclusive Waterfront (CRIW), is an alliance of diverse non-profit organizations united by a common mission: bringing the pressing issues facing Boston's harbor and rivers to the forefront of the public conversation. The coalition was established to ensure that communities historically underrepresented in waterfront planning have a strong voice in shaping the future of Boston's coastline.

The organization brings together groups that work directly on waterfront environmental issues alongside organizations representing communities that live, work, and play along the waterfront. This unique structure ensures that policy discussions reflect the full spectrum of stakeholders affected by waterfront decisions.

Through events, advocacy, and community engagement, the coalition addresses critical topics including climate resilience, equitable access to waterfront spaces, environmental conservation, and public health programming along Boston's rivers and harbor.

With over 50 partner organizations ranging from the NAACP Boston Branch to the New England Aquarium, the coalition represents one of the most comprehensive waterfront advocacy networks in the northeastern United States.

The Boston Waterfront Coalition organizes and promotes a wide variety of community events throughout the year along Boston's harbor and river waterfronts. These events range from environmental cleanups and wellness activities to educational programs and cultural celebrations. Participation is typically free and open to all community members.

Seasonal highlights include the Charles River Cleanup on the Esplanade each spring, wellness programs like yoga and fitness sessions on the Harborwalk, running events such as the Esplanade 5K and the Road to Wellness 5K, and family-friendly activities like Healthy Kids Day and storytime events at Martin's Park.

To stay informed about upcoming events, visit our events page regularly. Many events are organized in partnership with coalition member organizations, so checking their individual websites and social media channels can also help you discover additional opportunities to engage with the waterfront community.

Whether you are interested in environmental stewardship, fitness, education, or simply enjoying Boston's beautiful waterfront spaces, there are events designed for every interest and age group throughout the calendar year.

The Boston Waterfront Coalition focuses on five major waterfront areas that collectively define the aquatic landscape of Greater Boston. These include the Mystic River, the Neponset River, the Boston Harbor Islands, the Boston Inner Harbor, and the Charles River. Each of these areas presents unique environmental challenges and community opportunities.

The Charles River and its Esplanade are among the most visible waterfront spaces, hosting major events, recreational activities, and serving as a critical urban green corridor. The coalition works with partners like the Charles River Watershed Association and the Esplanade Association to protect and enhance this vital resource.

The Mystic River and Neponset River areas often receive less public attention but face significant environmental justice concerns. Communities along these waterways have historically dealt with industrial pollution and limited access to clean recreational spaces. The coalition advocates for equitable investment in these underserved areas.

The Boston Harbor Islands represent a unique ecological and recreational asset, while the Inner Harbor connects downtown Boston to its maritime heritage. The coalition works to ensure all of these waterfront spaces remain accessible, resilient, and inclusive for every Boston resident and visitor.

The Boston Waterfront Coalition brings together over 50 partner organizations representing a remarkable cross-section of Boston's civic landscape. Partners include major cultural institutions like the Museum of Science, the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), and the New England Aquarium, alongside grassroots community organizations like East Boston Social Centers and GreenRoots.

Civil rights and social justice organizations play a crucial role in the coalition, including the NAACP Boston Branch, Boston While Black, and Sociedad Latina. These partnerships ensure that equity and inclusion remain central to all waterfront planning and programming decisions.

Environmental conservation groups form another key pillar of the coalition, including the Conservation Law Foundation, Save The Harbor Save The Bay, the Charles River Conservancy, the Mystic River Watershed Association, and the Neponset River Watershed Association. These organizations bring deep expertise in environmental science, policy advocacy, and habitat restoration.

Business and civic leadership organizations such as the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, A Better City, and the Alliance for Business Leadership round out the partnership, ensuring that economic vitality and sustainable development are part of the waterfront conversation. New organizations interested in joining the coalition can apply through the partnership application process.

Climate resilience is a foundational concern for the Boston Waterfront Coalition, given that Boston faces significant risks from sea level rise, storm surge, and coastal flooding. The coalition works to ensure that climate adaptation planning is both scientifically informed and community-driven, reflecting the needs of all neighborhoods along the waterfront.

Through partnerships with environmental organizations and academic institutions, the coalition supports research and advocacy around green infrastructure, nature-based solutions, and equitable flood protection. These approaches not only reduce climate risks but also create healthier, more attractive public spaces along the waterfront.

The coalition also focuses on ensuring that climate resilience investments do not exacerbate existing inequalities. Historically, wealthier waterfront neighborhoods have received disproportionate protection and amenities while lower-income communities and communities of color face greater environmental risks. The coalition advocates for equitable distribution of resilience resources.

Community education is another key component of the coalition's climate work. Through events, public meetings, and partnerships with organizations like the Museum of Science and its Rise Up Boston climate events, the coalition helps Boston residents understand climate risks and participate meaningfully in planning processes that will shape the waterfront for decades to come.