2020 John R. Freeman Lecture: Boston’s Future Water Challenge: Standing Up to Nature’s Fury- Postponed

2020 John R. Freeman Lecture
Boston’s Future Water Challenge: Standing Up to Nature’s Fury

Tuesday, April 14, 2020 
Hosted by: Northeastern University Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering
Raytheon Amphitheater, Egan Research Center, 120 Forsyth Street, Boston, MA 
(Ruggles T station, Orange Line)
6:00 PM Registration, Social & Buffet Dinner, 7:00 PM Presentation

Speaker: John P. Sullivan, P.E.
Chief Engineer, Boston Water and Sewer Commission
President, National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) 

From its beginning in the 1600’s, Boston sought clean water for drinking and methods to dispose of its spent water to provide for public health and growth as a population center. As low-lying areas along its waterfronts were filled, improved water and wastewater systems led the way for continued development, requiring a westward expansion for future water supplies. A resurgence of improvements in the 1980’s saw the rebuilding of long neglected infrastructure to provide the solid foundation for continued growth.  All seemed good. 

A new, greater challenge now threatens to overwhelm our existence as a world-class, waterfront city. Increasing rainfall intensities, coupled with meaningful sea level rise, now endanger our daily activities as buildings rise from every corner of the city to shelter the increasing population and workforce.  Boston accepts the challenge.  

Registration Is Encouraged
Advanced registration for the lecture is encouraged. The lecture and dinner are complimentary, to encourage the participation of those considering a career in environmental or water resources engineering or hydraulics. BSCES members and non-members are welcome to attend free of charge.