Like the ratty situations in London and Atlanta, Boston's rat problem may very well have been exacerbated by the recession. Improper trash storage and construction projects are another two commonly cited culprits. Regardless of the exact causes involved, the whole issue has Bostonians up in arms, especially considering the fact that between 1995 and 1997, Boston had a rodent-kill program in place that was wildly successful. But the money for that dried up, and rodents have since returned.