Roxbury Crossing Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Residents of Roxbury Crossing, a neighborhood within Boston, receive their tap water from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). This supply originates from two major reservoirs in central Massachusetts: the Quabbin Reservoir and the Wachusett Reservoir. The water undergoes treatment at the John J. Carroll Water Treatment Plant in Marlborough, MA. Following treatment, the Boston Water and Sewer Commission (BWSC) distributes the water through its network to serve more than 150,000 customers across Suffolk County. The water's journey begins in the Quabbin-Wachusett watershed, a protected forest area spanning 412 square miles.

The watershed's geology is characterized by hard metamorphic rock, including Bull Hill Intrusive Suite and Brimfield Schist, with granitic intrusions dating back to the Paleozoic era. Unlike areas with limestone, this bedrock and the region's acidic soils mean rainwater doesn't dissolve many minerals as it collects. This natural process results in very soft water, with low concentrations of calcium and magnesium, a common trait for surface water supplies in New England.

Because the water is very soft, homeowners will notice minimal scale buildup on appliances like water heaters, dishwashers, and coffee makers. These devices should function efficiently and typically only require basic flushing every year or two. Laundry detergents will work well without needing extra additives, and soap will lather easily. A water softener isn't generally recommended, as it could remove beneficial minerals. Instead, using a rinse aid in your dishwasher and a bit of vinegar for glassware can prevent spots. Keeping hot water tanks below 140°F can further minimize any potential deposits. The MWRA/BWSC supply consistently meets all federal safety standards, with recent tests showing no exceedances for over 120 contaminants.