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.

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News and Announcements

  • Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration Ordinance

    The City of Cambridge is working to adopt an ordinance that will require new buildings and buildings undergoing a major renovation to eliminate the use of fossil fuels. Making buildings fossil fuel free means healthier homes and buildings and will help Cambridge reach our climate goals.

  • Transit Advisory Committee Vacancy

    The Transit Advisory Committee provides advice to city staff on city and state projects related to transit. The Committee gives advice and input to the city on how to improve and promote public transportation. This includes the transit services of the MBTA, EZRide, and other shuttles in the city.

  • Draft 2024 CAPER Now Available for Review

    A DRAFT version of the City's FY2024 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) is now available for review and comment.

  • Womens Business Month

    The City of Cambridge will celebrate National Women's Business Month during October to recognize the importance of women-owned businesses and highlight the women entrepreneurs who contribute so much to the local Cambridge economy.

  • Mass Ave Planning Study Community Meeting: A Focus on North Mass Ave

    Community meeting notice for Mass Ave Planning Study - A Focus on North Mass Ave. This is the first meeting for this study area which includes Porter Square. We will be presenting initial observations and developing goals and a vision for this area.

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