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

  • 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.

  • Cambridge Main Streets

    Cambridge Main Streets Energy Efficiency Initiative will take place from June 10 - June 14 for local small businesses.

  • Central Square Rezoning Community Meeting 1

    Join us virtually on Thursday, May 30th from 6-7:30 pm for the first of three community meetings on updating the zoning for Central Square!

  • New Development Log Available - 2024 Q1

    The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks large-scale residential, commercial and institutional development projects currently in the permitting or construction phases in the City of Cambridge.

  • Mass Ave Planning Study - South of Porter Community Meeting 2

    The next Community Meeting for MAPS will focus on the area South of Porter Square, and share a draft vision and potential ideas for the South of Porter Square planning area.

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