The Community Development Department is the planning agency for the City of Cambridge.

The Community Development Department is the planning agency for the City of Cambridge. Our mission is to foster a livable, sustainable, just, and equitable community. We work to enhance the character and diversity of the city's neighborhoods, preserve and increase affordable housing, create and promote accessible and sustainable mobility, build environmental resilience, and support sustainable economic growth. Through these initiatives, we strive to enrich the lives of residents, expand their opportunities, and contribute to a healthy urban environment. CDD takes an interdisciplinary approach to manage and guide evolution of our urban environment in a manner consistent with the City’s priorities. We engage and collaborate with community partners, other government agencies, businesses and residents to make Cambridge a desirable place to live, work, learn, play, and innovate. Learn more about the Department.

Features

News and Announcements

  • New Cool Spots Bring Shade and Social Space to Porter Square

    The City of Cambridge installed a new series of Cool Spots across Porter Square – welcoming outdoor seating areas designed to bring shade, comfort, and opportunities for social connection to some of the neighborhood’s hottest and most heavily traveled plazas and sidewalks.

  • City Will Host Community Meeting, Provide Updates on Vail Court

    The City of Cambridge Housing Department and Affordable Housing Trust (CAHT) are hosting a virtual community meeting to provide updates about process to redevelop Vail Court, 139 Bishop Allen Drive as affordable housing on Wednesday, May 20, 2026.

  • Cambridge NITES Grant Recipients

    The City of Cambridge Community Development Department has awarded nearly $30,000 in funding to seven organizations through the Cambridge Nightlife Industry and Thriving Entertainment Spaces (NITES) grant.

  • Cambridge Announces the 2026 Legacy Business Award Winners

    Cambridge celebrates long-standing local businesses in May for National Small Business Month

  • 52 New Street - Applications Open Until May 20

    JAS is holding a second lottery for up to 20 of its one- and two-bedroom affordable housing rental units at 52 New Street in Cambridge and to fill the waiting list for units as they become available. Click here for more information.

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