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Community Benefits Advisory Committee
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) will meet to advance its purpose to act on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding set forth in the Community Needs Assessment.
/CDD/Calendar/2026/03/02/communitybenefitsadvisorycommittee
Community Benefits Advisory Committee
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) will meet to advance its purpose to act on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding set forth in the Community Needs Assessment.
/CDD/Calendar/2026/02/02/communitybenefitsadvisorycommittee1
Community Benefits Advisory Committee
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) will meet to advance its purpose to act on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding set forth in the Community Needs Assessment.
/CDD/Calendar/2026/01/05/communitybenefitsadvisorycommittee
Community Benefits Advisory Committee
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) will meet to advance its purpose to act on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding set forth in the Community Needs Assessment.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/09/08/communitybenefitsadvisorycommitee
Community Benefits Advisory Committee
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) will meet to advance its purpose to act on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding set forth in the Community Needs Assessment.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/10/06/communitybenefitsadvisorycommittee1
Community Benefits Advisory Committee
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) will meet to advance its purpose to act on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding set forth in the Community Needs Assessment.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/04/07/communitybenefitsadvisorycommittee1
Community Benefits Advisory Committee
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) will meet to advance its purpose to act on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding set forth in the Community Needs Assessment.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/05/communitybenefitsadvisorycommittee
Community Benefits Advisory Committee
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) will meet to advance its purpose to act on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding set forth in the Community Needs Assessment.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/12/01/communitybenefitsadvisorycommittee1
Community Benefits Advisory Committee
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee (CBAC) will meet to advance its purpose to act on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding set forth in the Community Needs Assessment.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/11/03/communitybenefitsadvisorycommittee
Community Organizations
Community organizations with an interest in climate issues.
/CDD/climateandenergy/resources/Organizations
Contact Us
Contact the Community Development Department
/CDD/contactus
Central Square City Lots Study - Virtual Community Meeting!
This will be a virtual community meeting for the study of city-owned property in Central Square. We will present draft recommendations for the future uses of the sites based on community feedback and input, as well as municipal needs.
Central Square City Lots Study: The City of Cambridge Community Development Department (CDD), in collaboration with other city departments and the Cambridge community, is leading a municipal property needs assessment and planning study for city-owned properties in Central Square.
/CDD/News/2023/12/centralsquarecitylotsstudyvirtualcommunitymeeting!
Community Solar Helps Cambridge Residents Save Money and Supports City’s Climate Goals
The City of Cambridge and Community Development Department today announced the addition of community solar to its long-standing Sunny Cambridge program. Now all Cambridge residents, regardless of whether they rent or own, can leverage online tools and resources from Sunny Cambridge to shop and compare community solar projects or rooftop solar installations.
/CDD/News/2023/10/communitysolarhelpscambridgeresidentssavemoneyandsupportscity’sclimatego...
Directions
Directions to Community Development Department offices
/CDD/Directions
Internship Opportunities
Listing of internships currently available at the Community Development Department.
/CDD/Internships
Federal Grants
CDBG, HOME and ESG entitlement grants for affordable housing, community development and homeless services.
/CDD/federalgrants
Grand Junction Connector
grand junction path connector to the community path project
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/21/grandjunctionconnector
Community Emissions
The Community-Wide GHG Inventory helps the City of Cambridge benchmark community-wide emissions, and provides a necessary foundation that enables Cambridge to track progress towards emission reduction goals, and engage specific market sectors in actions to reduce emissions.
/CDD/climateandenergy/greenhousegasemissions/communityemissions
Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group Meeting
A Working Group meeting where the working group members will discuss public feedback from the 9/26 community meeting, review the community-based goals, and establish the approach for future recommendations for North Mass Ave.
/CDD/News/2024/10/massaveplanningstudyworkinggroupmeeting
Community Benefits Funding
The Community Benefits Advisory Committee acts on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding, adopted by the Cambridge City Council, and makes recommendations to the City Manager for the approval of grant awards with nonprofit organizations to deliver services.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/communitybenefitsadvisorycommittee
Parks and Playgrounds
CDD's Community Planning Division conducts open space planning throughout the city and oversees major design, construction and renovation projects for Cambridge's parks and playgrounds. Community Planning staff also frequently consult with City departments and other groups on open space projects.
/CDD/parks
Cambridge Needs Assessment
Report detailing a transparent and inclusive framework for understanding the needs of the Cambridge community.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/N/needsassessment
Neighborhood Planning and Information
Information about Cambridge's thirteen neighborhoods and the neighborhood-level planning conducted throughout the city by the Community Development Department.
/CDD/planud/neighplan
Special Permit Pre-Application Community Meetings
Information related to community engagement activities undertaken by developers before submitting a Planning Board special permit application.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/specialpermits/preapplicationcommunitymeetings
Advisory Consultation Pre-Application Community Meetings
Information related to community engagement activities undertaken by developers before submitting a Planning Board advisory consultation application.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/pbadvisoryconsultation/pbaccommunitymeeting
Broadway Park AHO Community Meeting
JAS held an initial community meeting on January 14th, 2025 to introduce themselves and the project to the community. They are holding another community meeting on July 24th at 6 p.m. at 243 Broadway, Cambridge and via Zoom to present updated designs and to collect feedback. Those who are interested in attending can register for the meeting here.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/07/24/broadwayparkahocommunitymeeting
Aging in Cambridge
The Community Development Department working with the Department of Human Service Programs explored the housing needs of the senior population.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/Aging
Belmont - Cambridge - Somerville Path
Learn more about MassDOT's community path project that connects Belmont, Cambridge, and Somerville.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/belmontcambridgesomervillepath
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!
/CDD/News/2024/5/centralsquarerezoningcommunitymeeting1
Central Square City Lots Study - Virtual Public Meeting October 25
This will be a virtual public meeting to share information about the project; review the sites that we are planning for; and receive community input and ideas on future uses for these properties. We will cover similar content to our prior in-person meeting, but in an online friendly format.
Central Square City Lots Study: The City of Cambridge Community Development Department (CDD), in collaboration with other city departments and the Cambridge community, is leading a municipal property needs assessment and planning study for city-owned properties in Central Square.
/CDD/News/2023/10/centralsquarecitylotsstudyvirtualpublicmeeting
Planning & Urban Design
Planning and urban design staff members work on many fronts to help the Cambridge community prepare for future growth and change.
/CDD/planud
Healthy Aging and Public Transportation
Partnering with the Council on Aging, the Community Development Department conducted a series of community meetings with seniors focusing on “usability, mobility, and accessibility” to transit. The goal of each meeting was to engage seniors in a discussion about their experiences with public transit, including challenges, barriers, and opportunities.
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/healthyagingandpublictransportation
Central Square Rezoning - Community Meeting 3
Please join the Central Square Rezoning Project team for our final community meeting regarding potential updates to the zoning for Central Square. This meeting will begin with a presentation by City staff focusing on what we've heard thus far and how that has informed the preliminary zoning recommendations. It will be followed by a robust public discussion where community members can share their feedback and input.
/CDD/News/2024/9/centralsquarerezoningcommunitymeeting3
Public Comment Drop-In Session for HUD Grants
Public Comment Drop-In Session for the Utilization of FY26 HUD Grants managed by the Community Development Department, Housing Department and Department of Human Service Programs
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/29/publiccommentdropinsessionforhudgrants
Sustainability Dashboard
The City of Cambridge Community Development Department has created a sustainability dashboard to track the progress of climate, transportation, and energy goals.
/CDD/factsandmaps/sustainabilitydashboard
Residential Neighbor Notification
Information related to community engagement activities undertaken by developers for a building permit application
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/residentialneighbornotification
Open Space Map Gallery
Includes maps showing the location of public parks, waterplay areas, off-leash areas for dogs and community gardens.
/CDD/factsandmaps/mapgalleries/openspace
Memorial Drive Phase III Community Meeting
The City of Cambridge is hosting this meeting to collect community feedback about redesign ideas and the project process.
/CDD/Calendar/2019/09/25/memorialdrivephaseiiicommunitymeeting
CDD Will Host Public Comment Session for Utilization of HUD Grants
The Community Development Department will hold an information and public comment session in preparation of the City’s FY2026 Annual Action Plan and FY2026-2030 Consolidated Plan. The purpose of the session is to solicit public comments on affordable housing, economic development, public service and other community development needs as they relate to low and moderate-income Cambridge residents, and HOPWA qualifying residents across Middlesex and Essex counties.
/CDD/News/2025/3/publiccommentsessionforutilizationofhudgrants
Mass Ave Planning Study - Community Meeting 1
We're excited to host our first community meeting for the Mass Ave Planning Study (MAPS) on Thursday, February 29 from 6 PM - 7:30 PM.
The meeting will provide an introduction to the project; an opportunity for the community to learn more about the process; and a chance to talk with the planning team about Mass Ave!
This meeting will be held virtually via Zoom.
/CDD/News/2024/1/massaveplanningstudycommunitymeeting1
Celebrate and Support Black-Owned Businesses This August
Cambridge is proud to celebrate National Black Business Month. We're highlighting the important contributions of Black entrepreneurs who strengthen our community and our country's economy.
/CDD/News/2025/7/celebrateandsupportblackownedbusinessesthisaugust
Inman Funch (Fun + Lunch)
Join the community of Inman Square for our annual Funch event! Live music performances, food available from local vendors and a different wellness activity each month.
/CDD/Calendar/2016/06/09/inmanfunch
Public Comment Session for Utilization of HUD Grants
The Community Development Department will hold an information and public comment session in preparation of the City’s FY2026 Annual Action Plan and FY2026-2030 Consolidated Plan. The purpose of the session is to solicit public comments on affordable housing, economic development, public service and other community development needs as they relate to low and moderate-income Cambridge residents, and HOPWA qualifying residents across Middlesex and Essex counties.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/04/03/publiccommentsessionforutilizationofhudgrants
Cambridge Climate Committee Vacancy
The Climate Committee is a volunteer group of community members who work together to provide feedback and ideas to the City on topics related to climate change.
/CDD/News/2024/11/cambridgeclimatecommitteevacancy
FY2024 Annual Federal Action Plan Hearing
On Wednesday, March 29th, from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. the Community Development Department will hold a public hearing in preparation of the City’s FY2024 Annual Action Plan
/CDD/News/2023/3/fy2024annualfederalactionplanhearing
Community Development Department Leadership Update
Iram Farooq, Assistant City Manager of Community Development, is leaving the City to become the Managing Director of Campus Planning at Harvard University.
/CDD/News/2024/11/communitydevelopmentdepartmentleadershipupdate
Hoyt Park
Russell E. Hoyt Park is the largest community park in the Riverside neighborhood. It's a place for everyone—whether you love playing sports, spending time with your dog, or just relaxing outdoors.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/hoytfield
Mass Ave Planning Study - A Focus on Porter Square
Porter Square Community Meeting - A Focus on Porter Square - January 30, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Join us for a virtual Community Meeting as part of the Mass Ave Planning Study (MAPS) to review and provide feedback on alternative ideas for the future of Porter Square! This is your opportunity to weigh in on potential updates, including zoning changes, urban design concepts, and open space improvements.
/CDD/News/2025/1/massaveplanningstudyafocusonportersquare
Mass Ave Planning Study Community Meeting
The planning team will share recommendations developed with the community that will help to Make Mass Ave more beautiful, produce more housing , provide more neighborhood amenities, support small businesses, and improve sidewalks and walkability
/CDD/News/2025/4/massaveplanningstudycommunitymeetingplanrecommendations
Citywide Urban Design Guidelines Open House
Join the Community Development Department and community members at an open house for the draft Citywide Urban Design Guidelines.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/03/25/citywideurbandesignguidelinesopenhouse
Healthy Harvard Square
Healthy Harvard Square Initiative was a series of community discussions conducted by the Economic Development Division during 2005 and 2006 about maintaining a Healthy Harvard Square.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/harvardsq/healthyharvardsq
Income Qualified Community Solar
Income Qualified Community Solar 2024 Mailers
/CDD/climateandenergy/energyefficiencyandrenewableenergy/incomequalifiedcommunitysolar
Costa Lopez Park
Costa Lopez Taylor Park is located on Charles Street in East Cambridge and includes a new "pocket park" space with community gardens created in 2008.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/costalopezpark
Street, Sidewalk and Path Projects
The City of Cambridge designs a number of Street, Sidewalk and Path Improvement Projects. The projects are a collaboration of the Community Development, Public Works and Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department.
/CDD/Transportation/projects
Community Planning Division
The Community Planning & Design Division activities encompass planning and urban design, institutional planning, neighborhood planning, zoning and development review (including staffing the Planning Board) demographic and geographic analysis, development of parks and open space, and graphic design.
/CDD/cpdiv
New Riverside Park
The new community park in Riverside at the intersection of Memorial Drive and Western Avenue was created as part of an agreement between the City of Cambridge, Harvard University and the Riverside Neighborhood.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/newriversidepark
Free Business Financial Literacy Workshops
Cambridge Community Development Department partners with Cambridge Savings Bank to offer a four-week Financial Education Program for entrepreneurs.
/CDD/News/2025/8/financialeducationworkshopseriesforsmallbusinessesbycambridgesavingsbank
Map Collections
The Community Development Department produces a wide variety of maps for its own use and as a source of information for the public.
/CDD/factsandmaps/mapgalleries
The Summer Heats Up with Cambridge Plays
Come outside and play as warm weather arrives. The Community Development Department (CDD) partners with local businesses and organizations to sponsor free events in squares and neighborhoods across the city.
/CDD/News/2025/4/2025cambridgeplaysapplicationsopennow
Federal Grant Programs
Cambridge receives funds from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) programs administered by the U.S, Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
/CDD/federalgrants/federalgrantprograms
Central Square Advisory Committee Call for Members
The Central Square Advisory Committee (CSAC) is a group of community members with direct relationships to Central Square in Cambridge who review development proposals and planning projects that impact Central Square.
/CDD/News/2023/5/centralsquareadvisorycommitteevacancy
Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group Meeting
Working group meeting notice for Mass Ave Planning Study. We will be discussing the basics of zoning, and our approach to community planning for Porter Square.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/10/30/massaveplanningstudyworkinggroupmeeting
Central Square Advisory Committee Vacancies
The Central Square Advisory Committee (CSAC) is a group of community members with direct relationships to Central Square in Cambridge who review development proposals and planning projects that impact Central Square.
/CDD/News/2024/7/centralsquareadvisorycommitteevacancies
Raymond Park
The City of Cambridge will renovate Raymond Park in Neighborhood Nine. The design and community engagement process will begin in early 2024, and construction is anticipated to begin in 2025.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/raymondpark
Trolley Square Park
Trolley Square Park is approximately 3,600 square feet in size and located at the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Cameron Avenue. The site is adjacent to the existing Linear Park, as well as housing, retail and community space.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/trolleypark
Mass Ave Planning Study Community Meeting
The next Community Meeting for MAPS will focus on the area South of Porter Square, and include opportunities for public participation around the issues facing this area.
/CDD/News/2024/3/massaveplanningstudycommunitymeeting
Lower Massachusetts Avenue
In 2011, the City of Cambridge Community Development Department began a study to explore ways to improve the character of Mass Avenue from Cambridge Commons to Porter Square.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/lowermassave
Harvard Square Advisory Committee Vacancies
The Harvard Square Advisory Committee (HSAC) is a group of community members with direct relationships to Harvard Square, who review development proposals and planning projects that impact Harvard Square.
/CDD/News/2024/7/harvardsquareadvisorycommitteevacancies
FY2026 HUD Grants Public Comment Drop-In Session
On Thursday, May 29 4-6pm in the City Hall Annex 2nd Floor Conference room, there will be a Public Comment Drop-In Session for the Utilization of FY26 HUD Grants managed by the Community Development Department, Housing Department and Department of Human Service Programs
/CDD/News/2025/5/fy2026hudgrantspubliccommentdropinsession
Cambridge Plays Applications Open for Spring 2024
The Community Development Department (CDD) partners with local businesses and organizations to sponsor free events in squares and neighborhoods across the city. Apply to receive reimbursement of up to $2,000 for eligible activities.
/CDD/News/2024/4/cambridgeplaysapplicationsopenforspring2024
Community Compact for a Sustainable Future
The City of Cambridge, Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology signed a historic “Community Compact for a Sustainable Future” aimed at leveraging the intellectual and entrepreneurial capacity of the business, non-profit, education, and municipal sectors in Cambridge to contribute to a healthy, livable and sustainable future.
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/climateprotectionactioncommittee/communitycomp...
Street Lighting
The 2010 City Lighting Study, on which the Electrical Department and the Community Development Department collaborated, called for the evaluation of emerging LED (light emitting diode) street light fixtures.
/CDD/climateandenergy/municipalsustainability/streetlighting
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. We will be presenting initial observations and developing a vision and goals for this area.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/09/26/massaveplanningstudynorthmassavecommunitymeeting
2017-2018 Budget Highlights
A report detailing the Community Development Departments 2017-2018 Highlights
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/B/budgethighlights
Mass Ave Planning Study Community Meeting: Ideas for North Mass Ave
Community meeting notice for Mass Ave Planning Study - Ideas for North Mass Ave. This is the second meeting for this study area. We will be presenting initial ideas and developing recommendations for this part of the study area between Porter Square and Alewife Brook Pkwy.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/11/14/massaveplanningstudynorthmassavecommunitymeeting2
Annual Spring Community Bike Ride
Join the Cambridge Bicycle Committee and the Department of Transportation in saying hello to our animal neighbors on this year's annual Spring Community Bicycle Ride: The Cambridge Critters Cruise!
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/17/annualspringcommunitybikeride
Massachusetts Names City of Cambridge a Climate Leader Community
Cambridge is proud to announce that it is one of just 19 Massachusetts communities to have achieved Climate Leader Community certification from the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources. This certification recognizes how far the city has come in setting and meeting rigorous requirements to become carbon neutral by 2050.
/CDD/News/2025/5/massachusettsnamescityofcambridgeaclimateleadercommunity
Citywide Urban Design Guidelines Open House and Exhibition
Coming soon, the Community Development Department is excited to present draft citywide urban design guidelines for Cambridge. Join us in March and April for an open house and exhibition to review the draft guidelines and provide feedback.
/CDD/News/2025/3/citywideurbandesignguidelinesopenhouseandexhibition
FY 2025 Draft CAPER
The City of Cambridge, through its Community Development Department, is making available for public review and comment the draft of its FY2025 Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER), which includes its utilization of funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
/CDD/News/2025/9/fy2026draftcaper
Funding for the Trust
The Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust receives significant financial support through the Community Preservation Act. The Affordable Housing Trust also benefits from funds generated by the City’s Incentive Zoning Ordinance. harvard also provided low-interest loan funds for affordable housing.
/CDD/housing/housingtrust/trustfunding
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.
/CDD/News/2024/8/massaveplanningstudynorthmassavecommunitymeeting
Cambridge Celebrates National Small Business Month
The City of Cambridge is celebrating National Small Business Month in May 2023! Throughout the month join us for webinars and other events to provide resources to local small businesses and entrepreneurs, and to celebrate the importance of small businesses to Cambridge's vibrant community.
/CDD/News/2023/4/cambridgecelebratesnationalsmallbusinessmonth
Inclusionary Housing Zoning Petition
The Community Development Department commissioned the Inclusionary Housing Study to examine the current inclusionary housing provisions in the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance and determine whether any changes to the ordinance are warranted. This resulted in a Zoning Petition.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/inclusionaryhousingstudy
Planning Studies
The Community Development Departments collaborates with other City departments to conduct planning studies of varying scales, often with goals to rezone, solve a particular problem, or create documentation of a topic.
/CDD/planud/planningstudies
Celebrate Summer with Cambridge Plays
Cambridge Plays is a series of outdoor entertainment events sponsored by the City of Cambridge and our community partners. Come out and enjoy music and arts across the city throughout the summer! Whether you’re up for music, juggling, or yoga in the park, Cambridge Plays has something for everyone.
/CDD/News/2023/6/celebratesummerwithcambridgeplays
Resources
The Community Development Department provides information about climate and energy through electronic media.
/CDD/climateandenergy/resources
Members Sought to Serve on Cambridge Kiosk Advisory Committee
The Advisory Committee will provide guidance and oversight for the operations of the Cambridge Kiosk in Harvard Square. Through this collaboration, the recently restored landmark is set to become a vibrant cultural incubator, community gathering space, and visitor information center called the Cambridge Kiosk, and is expected to open in early 2025.
/CDD/News/2024/10/memberssoughttoserveoncambridgekioskadvisorycommittee
Cambridge Submits Interim Action Plan for MBTA Communities
The City of Cambridge has submitted an Interim Action Plan to the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) as required by a new state law requiring communities served by the MBTA to have zoning districts that allow muti-family housing to be built as-of-right.
/CDD/News/2023/2/cambridgesubmitsinterimactionplanformbtacommunities
North Massachusetts Avenue
In 2010, the City of Cambridge Community Development Department began a study to explore ways to improve the character of “North Mass Ave” from Beech Street to the Arlington line, with the goal of developing recommendations for improvements that address zoning and urban design objectives.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/northmassachusettsavenue
Inclusionary Housing Preference Changes
The Community Development Department (CDD) has prepared review draft changes to the applicant preference system used to select applicants for Inclusionary rental and homeownership housing. These changes are now available for public review and comment.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/inclusionaryhousingpreferencechanges
Harvey Street Traffic Calming
The Community Development Department (CDD) has received several requests for traffic calming measures on Harvey Street.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/harveyst
Community Resources for Entrepreneurs
This page provides a listing of a variety of local and state community resources for entrepreneurs.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/communityresour...
Growth Management Advisory Committe
The Citywide Growth Management Advisory Committee (CGMAC) addressed concerns expressed by the community about future density and traffic growth, the need for more housing, including affordable units, and opportunities for public review of large projects. The Committee recoemmeded a series of significant zoning changes.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/gmac
MAPS Working Group
The Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group will meet to discuss community feedback from Round 2 and provide input on the draft recommendations for South of Porter Square study area. Additionally, there will be a conversation with development experts on development feasibility currently, and the in the future, on Mass Ave.
/CDD/News/2024/6/massaveplanningstudyworkinggroupmeetingsouthofportersquare
City of Cambridge Seeking Members for Cambridge Climate Committee
The Climate Committee is a volunteer group of community members who work together to provide feedback and ideas to the City on topics related to climate change. It was formerly known as the Climate Protection Action Committee. The Climate Committee works to help the City reduce climate change impacts, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase equity, and serve as a partner to and example for other communities.
/CDD/News/2023/1/cityofcambridgeseekingmembersforcambridgeclimatecommittee
Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group Meeting
The next Working Group meeting for the Mass Ave Planning Study will focus on zoning for Mass Ave, specifically the areas of North Mass Ave and South of Porter Square. Additionally, the group will discuss the format and content of upcoming community meetings in January focused on design and planning for Porter Square.
/CDD/News/2024/12/massaveplanningstudyworkinggroupmeeting
Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group Meeting
The next Working Group meeting for the Mass Ave Planning Study will focus on zoning for Mass Ave, specifically the areas of North Mass Ave and South of Porter Square. Additionally, the group will discuss the format and content of upcoming community meetings in January focused on design and planning for Porter Square.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/12/11/massaveplanningstudyworkinggroupmeeting
North Point Design Guidelines 2003
2003 guidelines providing a framework for the design of a livable mixed community in the North Point area of Cambridge.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/N/northpointguidelines2003
Food Business Basics Program
The City of Cambridge Community Development Department (CDD) is launching a new program for Cambridge residents who have a passion for food and a dream of owning a business, but a lot of questions about combining the two.
/CDD/News/2024/2/foodbusinessbasicsprogram
CANCELLED: 71 Cherry Street AHO Community Meeting
The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA) is hosting their first AHO community meeting on February 19th, 2025 at 6 p.m. to discuss plans for the proposed development at 71 Cherry Street as 100% affordable housing.
Via Zoom: bit.ly/m/MFNHRevampProject
In Person: CCF Conference Room, 99 Bishop Allen Dr. Cambridge, MA 02139
If you are interested in attending the meeting, please register here.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/02/19/71cherrystreetahocommunitymeeting
Cambridge KiOSK Opening Celebration
The City of Cambridge, in partnership with CultureHouse and the Cambridge Office for Tourism, is reopening the historic Kiosk in Harvard Square as the Cambridge KiOSK – a dynamic cultural incubator, community gathering space, and visitor information center. Join us for an opening day celebration featuring live music, refreshments, and a speaking program.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/30/kioskopeningcelebration
Town Gown Report
Addresses the relationship between the Cambridge community and the educational institutions that play an important role in the City's landscape and economy.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/T/towngownreport1991
Morse Schoolyard
The Community Development Department is undergoing a planning process for the renovation of the outdoor play and gardening spaces at the Morse School.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/morseschoolyard
Corcoran Park AHO Community Meeting
The CHA is hosting their second AHO community meeting on June 18, 2025 at 6 p.m. to discuss plans for the proposed revitalization at Corcoran Park as 100% affordable housing. Click here for the flyer.
Interested participants may attend:
In-person: VFW at 688 Huron Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
Via Zoom: Click here to register for the Zoom meeting.
For more information about this project, please visit CHA’s website at https://cambridge-housing.org/departments/planning/planning-projects/corcoran-park-modernization/.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/06/18/corcoranparkahocommunitymeeting
12-14 Laurel Street - AHO Community Meeting
Just A Start (JAS) is hosting their first AHO community meeting on September 11, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to discuss plans for the proposed redevelopment at 12-14 Laurel Street as 100% affordable housing.
You may attend this meeting either in-person or online.
In-person: 55 Norfolk Street, Cambridge, MA
Online: via Zoom. Please register here to attend the meeting online.
For more information about the project, please contact Connor Ring at ConnorRing@justastart.org.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/09/11/1214laurelstreetahocommunitymeeting
28-30 Wendell AHO Community Meeting
Homeowners Rehab Inc. (HRI) is holding their third AHO community meeting at the Baldwin School Cafeteria (85 Oxford Street) on March 6, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. to discuss plans for the proposed development at 28-30 Wendell Street as 100% affordable housing. Click here for more information. If you are interested in attending via Zoom, please register here.
For more information about the project, please contact Eleni Macrakis at emacrakis@homeownersrehab.org or visit the project’s website at https://www.30wendellstreet.com/home.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/03/06/2830wendellahocommunitymeeting
Corcoran Park AHO Community Meeting
The CHA is hosting their second AHO community meeting on October 9, 2025 at 6 p.m. to discuss plans for the proposed revitalization at Corcoran Park as 100% affordable housing. Click here for the flyer.
Interested participants may attend:
In-person: VFW at 688 Huron Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
Via Zoom: Click here to register for the Zoom meeting.
For more information about this project, please visit CHA’s website at https://cambridge-housing.org/departments/planning/planning-projects/corcoran-park-modernization/.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/10/09/corcoranparkahocommunitymeeting1
Cambridge Biotechnology Brochure
Outlines how, over the past decade, biotechnology research has emerged as a significant focus in the City's business community and advantages city offers as a place to conduct business.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/cambbiotech2012
Multifamily Citywide
In March 2024, the City Council passed Policy Order 2024 #37, which asked the Community Development Department “to work with the chairs of the Housing Committee to create zoning language that effectively promotes multifamily housing, including income-restricted affordable housing with the goal of having viable housing for everyone especially lower-income residents.” A series of Housing Committee meetings will be held to discuss the proposal throughout the summer and fall of 2024. Additional information will be posted here as the proposal is developed.
/CDD/Projects/Zoning/multifamilyhousing
Cambridgeport Revitalization Plan
1983 report addressing the diverse needs of the Cambridgeport community by proposing a program of balanced development. The report includes proposals for housing, open space, transportation and business development improvements.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/cportrevitalizationplan
240 Broadway (Broadway Park) AHO Community Meeting
Just A Start (JAS) is hosting a second AHO community meeting on November 6, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. to discuss plans for the proposed development at 240 Broadway (also known as Broadway Park) as 100% affordable housing.
You may attend this meeting either in-person or online.
In-person: 243 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02139
Online: via Zoom. Please register here to attend the meeting online.
For more information about the project, please contact Yolanda Gilibert at YolandaGilibert@justastart.org or visit the project’s website at https://justastart.org/240-broadway/.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/11/06/240broadway,-h-,40;broadwaypark,-h-,41;ahocommunitymeeting
Comprehensive Planning
Envision Cambridge is the City’s current citywide plan, a roadmap to the year 2030, setting out a course of action to promote sustainable and inclusive growth. It establishes a framework for growth management that builds upon and complements existing patterns of development, while meeting the needs of today’s community and future generations. Prior to the establishment of Envision Cambridge, the comprehensive plan for Cambridge was composed of a set of documents: The Zoning Map and the Zoning Ordinance, the City’s growth policy document, Toward A Sustainable Future, and the major area-wide planning studies across the city.
/CDD/planud/masterplan
Rafferty Park
The City of Cambridge will renovate Rafferty Park in the Cambridge Highlands neighborhood. The design and community engagement process will begin in early 2024, and construction is anticipated to begin in 2025.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/raffertypark
37 Brookline Street
37 Brookline Street is a 6,582 square foot property in Cambridgeport, located a couple of blocks south of Massachusetts Avenue and the amenities of Central Square, including shops, restaurants and the Central Square MBTA station. The property contains an existing vacant three-family building, which was most recently owned by the late artist Peter Valentine, a well-known member of the Cambridge arts community. Just A Start (JAS) purchased the property in July 2023 and intends to replace the existing triple-decker with a new affordable multi-family rental development under the provisions of the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO).
/CDD/Projects/Housing/37brooklinestreet
New Small Business Succession Planning Program
The City of Cambridge Community Development Department (CDD) is launching a new program for Cambridge business owners interested in getting their business ready to be sold or transferred to your family, an employee, or someone else.
/CDD/News/2024/3/smallbusinesssuccessionplanningprogram
2072 Massachusetts Avenue AHO Community Meeting
Capstone Communities, Hope Real Estate Enterprises, and MPZ Development (Capstone/Hope/MPZ) are hosting their second AHO community meeting on May 29th at 6:00 p.m. to discuss plans for the proposed development at 2072 Massachusetts Avenue as 100% affordable housing. Click here for the flyer.
Interested participants may attend this meeting either in-person or online.
In-person: University Hall, 2nd floor (2-150), 1815 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140
Online: via Zoom. Please register here to attend the meeting online.
For more information about the project, please contact Capstone Communities at info@capstonecommunities.com or visit the project’s website at https://www.aptsat2072massave.com/home.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/29/2072massachusettsavenueahocommunitymeeting1
Key Information on Multifamily Housing Zoning
Looking to learn more about multifamily housing and zoning? Visit the Community Development Department's dedicated website to review important information, past presentations, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), find upcoming meetings, and sign up for updates to proposed changes.
/CDD/News/2025/1/keyinformationonmultifamilyhousingzoning
Net Zero Action Plan
The “Getting to Net Zero” Task Force will advise the City Manager on ways to advance the goal of putting Cambridge on the trajectory towards becoming a “net zero community”, with focus on carbon emissions from building operations.
/CDD/Projects/Climate/netzerotaskforce
Doing Business with the City Workshop Series
As part of the City’s Supplier Diversity Program, the Community Development and Purchasing Departments are hosting a three-part workshop series for business owners who are interested in learning more about the City’s procurement process. Workshops are aimed at demystifying the procurement process for business owners in three sections – small contracts, invitations to bid and written quotes, and request for proposals. Businesses are encouraged to come to one or all the workshops.
/CDD/News/2025/1/doingbusinesswiththecityworkshopseries
Neighborhood Demographics Profile 2013
Includes a series of charts and tables with information about the 13 neighborhoods of Cambridge, as well as citywide statistics. The document was last updated during 2013 to incorporate complete data from the 2010 US Census and the 2006 to 2011 American Community Survey.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/N/neighbirhooddemographicsprofile2013
Retail Interior Accessibility Program Application Form
The City of Cambridge Community Development Department (CDD) established the Retail Interior Accessibility Program to provide financial assistance to independent business tenants seeking to renovate or improve the interior of their commercial buildings to make their businesses more accessible to those who are physically disabled.
/CDD/Forms/Forms/R/retailinterioraccessporgramapplicationform
Rindge Commons Housing Applications Due October 16
Just A Start is proud to announce an affordable housing lottery for 14 new one and two-bedroom apartments in Cambridge at the Rindge Commons North project. An additional 8 units will be leased by the Cambridge Housing Authority waitlist, and 2 Community Based Housing (CBH) units will be leased by the Massachusetts Rehab Commission waitlist.
/CDD/News/2023/9/rindgecommonshousingapplicationsdueoctober16
Rindge Commons North
Just a Start (JAS) will be building two new buildings at 430-432 Rindge Avenue in North Cambridge. This two-phased project, called Rindge Commons, will create 101 affordable apartments. All units will be affordable to households earning under 80% AMI, with some being more deeply affordable. Additionally, JAS's development will provide community-wide benefits by addressing climate change mitigation and sustainability goals and enhancing the experience of pedestrians and cyclists along Alewife Brook Parkway and Rindge Avenue.
The first phase, Rindge Commons North, will include 24 affordable one- and two-bedroom rental units, as well several floors of non-residential where JAS will be consolidating its training and education programs into a centralized location. The City will also be leasing space to create three Pre-Kindergarten classrooms for children between ages three and five years old, providing much needed affordable early education for Cambridge’s working families. Rindge Commons North is located just steps away from the Alewife T-Station, and shares a site with JAS’s Rindge Tower Apartments.
The second phase of Rindge Commons will begin once Rindge Commons North is complete and will contain 77 affordable family-sized units.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/rindgecommonsnorth
Mid-Cambridge Action Plan
A project page for the Mid-Cambridge Action Plan. Part of the Neighborhood Planning Initiative.
/CDD/planud/NPI/midcambridgeactionplan
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Learn about how the city of Cambridge tracks greenhouse gas emissions.
/CDD/climateandenergy/greenhousegasemissions
Neighborhood Nine Action Plan
A project page for the Neighborhood Nine Action Plan. Part of the Neighborhood Planning Initiative.
/CDD/planud/NPI/neighborhoodnineactionplan
Harvard Square Kiosk and Plaza
The process to create a vision for the future governance, operation, and programming of the Harvard Square Kiosk Plaza.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/hsquarepublicspace
Wellington-Harrington Action Plan
A project page for the Wellington-Harrington Action Plan. Part of the Neighborhood Planning Initiative.
/CDD/planud/NPI/wellingtonharringtonactionplan
Cambridge Needs Assessment
The first step of this process is to conduct a comprehensive Needs Assessment. The primary purpose of the Needs Assessment is to gain an in-depth understanding of the community's most pressing needs and service gaps.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/cambridgeneedsassessment
Join us on Sunday, 10/8 !
This will be the first public meeting for the study of city-owned property in Central Square.
/CDD/News/2023/9/centralsquarecitylotsstudypublicmeeting1
Housing Study Findings Presentation
What are Cambridge residents’ experiences of social inclusion and bias in inclusionary housing?
/CDD/News/2022/12/housingstudyfindingspresentation
Blanchard Road
Blanchard Road from Concord Avenue to Grove Street was fully reconstructed with new sidewalks, bike lanes and a raised intersection at Glenn Road.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/blanchardroad
Huron Avenue Reconstruction
Learn more about the Huron Avenue Reconstruction project under design.
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/huronavenuereconstruction
Reports & Presentations
Statistical profiles, reports, and presentations contained here summarize a variety of information about Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/reportsandpublications
Vacant Storefront Creative Design Contest Winners Announced
Six artists have been chosen to participate in a City of Cambridge initiative to energize Cambridge neighborhoods by filling vacant store windows with reproductions of locally-made art.
/CDD/News/2023/5/vacantstorefrontcreativedesigncontestwinnersannounced
Biomedical Careers Program
The Cambridge BioMed Program is a job training program for Cambridge residents interested in entry-level biotechnology positions.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/biomedicalcaree...
Brookline Street
Brookline Street reconstruction project, completed Fall 2010, included sidewalk replacement, repaving, and replacement of the water and sewer lines. Design improvements included traffic calming, safer pedestrian crossings, bicycle lanes and the addition of many more street trees.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/brooklinestreet
35 Cherry Street Begins Construction
Construction begins at 35 Cherry Street, the first homeownership project developed under the Affordable Housing Overlay.
/CDD/News/2025/12/35cherrystreetbeginsconstruction
Final Cambridge Street Meeting
Join the planning team for the final public meeting of the Our Cambridge Street process and provide feedback.
/CDD/News/2022/12/finalcambridgest,-d-,planningmeetingondec,-d-,15
River Street Reconstruction
The project will upgrade the sanitary sewer, stormwater, and water subsurface infrastructure while developing a new surface design for River Street, the bus terminal, and Carl Barron Plaza.
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/riverstreetreconstruction
City of Cambridge Operations To Go Green
Thanks to an innovative partnership among multiple local institutions and a new wind power project in North Dakota, all of the electricity used by Cambridge city buildings, schools and operations will be 100% carbon neutral starting in 2026.
/CDD/News/2024/11/cityofcambridgeoperationstogogreen
Huron Village and Observatory Hill
Information about the Huron Village and Observatory Hill Commercial District. It includes market profile, business association and study documents about the area.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/huronvillage
Switching your energy supply
It is possible to choose a competitive electricity supplier to deliver your electricity, but the terms and conditions of cancellation depend on the contract you sign with the competitive supplier.
/CDD/climateandenergy/energyefficiencyandrenewableenergy/switchingtocompetitivesupplyandgr...
STAR Plans and Policies
Partial listing of existing city plans and polices referenced by STAR Communities.
/CDD/starcommunities/starplansandpolicies
Cambridge Plays Application is Now Open!
Do you have an idea of how to activate a Cambridge park or plaza? We are currently looking for local businesses and non-profits to submit proposals for ways to activate public parks and plazas during May - July 2023.
/CDD/News/2023/4/cambridgeplaysapplicationisnowopen!
Envision Cambridge
The City of Cambridge is embarking on a citywide comprehensive planning process to create a shared vision for the city and its future. Through the citywide planning process, the City aims to develop policy and design goals and actionable recommendations to guide future change and promote the well-being of residents, businesses, and stakeholders in the midst of local, regional, and global trends. The citywide planning process aims to integrate and build upon the City’s existing policies, programs, and initiatives through an inclusive, wide-reaching process that looks beyond traditional planning efforts to guide future change in Cambridge.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/citywideplanning
Many Ways to Play with Cambridge Plays this Summer
There are many ways to play in Cambridge this summer! Craft, dance, sing, explore, and learn together in parks and plazas across the city with Cambridge Plays. Cambridge Plays events are outdoors, free, and open to people of all ages.
/CDD/News/2025/7/manywaystoplaywithcambridgeplaysthissummer
Lincoln Way
In 2013 Cambridge Housing Authority completed the revitalization of Lincoln Way Apartments, finishing construction of 70 new apartments.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/lincolnway
Mass Ave Planning Study (MAPS) Working Group - Meeting 2
This is the second regular meeting of the Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group, a representative body of neighborhood stakeholders that will help guide the planning process for Mass Ave from Cambridge Common to Alewife Brook Parkway.
/CDD/News/2024/3/massaveplanningstudymapsworkinggroupmeeting2
Mt. Auburn Street Bus Priority Pilot
Cambridge, in partnership with Watertown, was awarded a community grant from the Barr Foundation to work with the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) to pilot bus priority improvements for routes 71 and 73 along Mt. Auburn Street west of Fresh Pond Parkway. The demonstration project includes the first dedicated bus lanes in Cambridge and new bike lanes, as well as transit signal priority. It uses temporary materials like paint and signs, which will remain in place during the evaluation, and is the first step towards implementing a long-term plan for the Mt. Auburn corridor.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/mtauburnstreetbusprioritydemonstration
2025 Legacy Business Award Winners
The City of Cambridge proudly launched National Small Business Month today with the Cambridge Legacy Business Luncheon, an event dedicated to honoring some of the community's most enduring local enterprises.
/CDD/News/2025/5/cambridgecelebratesthe2025legacybusinessawardwinners
SHADE Installation
SHADE is a temporary installation developed by a group of local teens for peers to combat isolation and encourage gathering in a safe, cool location.
/CDD/News/2025/8/shadeinstallation
Cambridge Climate Committee
The City Manager appoints a standing Climate Committee as an advisory committee to assist in the implementation of the Climate Protection Plan and Net Zero Action Plan.
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/climateprotectionactioncommittee
Cambridge Celebrates National Black Business Month
This August, the City of Cambridge is proud to celebrate National Black Business Month by hosting a variety of events aimed at supporting and promoting Black business owners.
/CDD/News/2024/7/cambridgecelebratesnationalblackbusinessmonth
Central Square Rezoning Block Party October 19
The Central Square Rezoning team invites you to come learn and play with us at a Block Party in Central Square on Saturday, October 19th! The team will share the zoning recommendations along with art, activities, dancing, and information about other important projects in and around Central Square.
/CDD/News/2024/10/centralsquarerezoningblockparty
Drafts Available for FY26 One Year Action Plan and NRSA
Draft Versions of the City's FY26 One Year Action Plan / FY26-30 Consolidated Plan and Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area (NRSA) are Available for Review and Comment.
/CDD/News/2025/5/draftsavailableforfy26oneyearactionplanandnrsa
Legacy Business Program
This page provides information on the City of Cambridge's Legacy Business Program
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/legac...
Multifamily Citywide
Discussion of rezoning districts that only allow single-family and two-family housing.
/CDD/Projects/Zoning/singleandtwofamily
Completed Projects
Completed street, sidewalk and path projects
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects
Town Gown, PILOT and Institutional Planning
Learn about about institutional planning in Cambridge and view the current Town Gown Reports from Cambridge College, Harvard University, Lesley University, and MIT
/CDD/planud/institutionalplanning
Climate Action Plan
The Climate Action Plan describes how Cambridge will reduce emissions across the entire city to reach carbon neutrality by 2050.
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/climateactionplan
STAR Communities
STAR Communities assesses communities on their programs, policies and accomplishments that promote environmental, social and economic sustainability. Cambridge achieved the highest rating in the country from STAR Communities for its leadership in sustainability.
/CDD/starcommunities
Building Emissions Public Forum
City staff will host a forum about proposed changes to the Building Energy Use Disclosure Ordinance (BEUDO).
/CDD/News/2022/8/buildingemissionspublicforum
Mass Ave Planning Study (MAPS) Working Group - Meeting 1
We will be hosting our first working group meeting for the Mass Ave Planning Study on Wednesday, February 7 at 6 PM. The meeting will serve as an introduction to the project; an opportunity for working group members to learn more about the process; and a chance for any members of the public to ask initial questions for the planning team. This meeting will be held via Zoom.
/CDD/News/2024/1/massaveplanningstudymapsworkinggroupmeeting1
Contact Us
Staff contacts for open space planning in Cambridge.
/CDD/parks/contactus
History of Comprehensive Planning
From 2016 to 2019, the city undertook a process, Envision Cambridge, which resulted in a series of recommendations guiding the City to a more sustainable and equitable future by the year 2030.
/CDD/planud/masterplan/growthpolicy
Life Sciences and Technology
This page contains information on resources and information for life science and technology businesses in Cambridge.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses
Development Review
Information about development review meetings
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview
Planning Board Information
General information about the Cambridge Planning Board including membership and rules.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardinformation
For Renters
Affordable rental units are found throughout the City in properties owned by the Cambridge Housing Authority, non-profit housing providers, and private owners of affordable and mixed-income rental housing.
/CDD/housing/forrenters
FY23 Cannabis Business Permit Process
Anyone seeking to operate a Cannabis Business, as defined in the Cannabis Business Permit Ordinance, in the City of Cambridge must obtain a Cannabis Business Permit from the City.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/fy23cannabisbusinesspermitprocess
Take the Neighborhood Goals Survey
Help set goals for Neighborhood Action Plans in Mid-Cambridge, Neighborhood Nine, and Wellington-Harrington.
/CDD/News/2023/8/neighborhoodgoalssurvey
Bicycle Committee
The Cambridge Bicycle Committee works to improve conditions for bicyclists in the City of Cambridge and promote bicycling as a means of transportation.
/CDD/Transportation/forthepublic/bicyclecomm
Municipal Sustainability
To lead by example, the City of Cambridge is engaged in many initiatives aimed at improving the sustainability of municipal operations.
/CDD/climateandenergy/municipalsustainability
Affordable Housing Trust Vacancy
The Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust (the Trust) works to expand and protect affordable housing opportunities in Cambridge. The Trust administers and oversees most City funds allocated to create and preserve affordable rental and homeownership housing, and to support housing programs that address the city’s affordable housing needs.
/CDD/News/2023/3/affordablehousingtrustvacancy
Climate and Energy
The Office of Sustainability is responsible for addressing climate change by developing policies and programs to reduce energy use, protect natural resources, and reduce pollution.
/CDD/climateandenergy
Draft One Year Action Plan
A Draft version of the FY2024 One Action Plan is available for review.
/CDD/News/2023/4/draftoneyearactionplan
Port Landing
A housing development consisting of 20 units of affordable rental units at 131 Harvard St, Cambridge
/CDD/Projects/Housing/harvardst131portlanding
Shop Locally in Cambridge this Holiday Season
Small Business Saturday is November 29, 2025, and it's the perfect time to explore the incredible shops, restaurants, and services across Cambridge in our squares, neighborhoods, and beyond.
/CDD/News/2025/10/shoplocallyincambridgethisholidayseason
Hurley Street Park
The City of Cambridge completed a comprehensive renovation of Hurley Street Park in East Cambridge in 2015.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/hurleystreetpark
Whittemore Avenue Area Traffic Calming
The 2011 reconstruction of Whittemore Avenue, Alewife Parkway to Magoun Street included traffic calming elements to reduce vehicle speeds and enhance safety for pedestrians
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/whittemoreavenuearea
Trolley Square
Trolley Square is a mixed-use, mixed-income development for low- and moderate-income families.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/trolleysquare
Cycling Safety Ordinance Economic Impact Study
This page has information on collecting relevant economic data relating to business impacts from separated bike lane installation in commercial corridors as part of the City’s Cycling Safety Ordinance (CSO).
/CDD/Projects/EconDev/cyclingsafetyordinanceeconomicimpactstudy
Longfellow Road Traffic Calming
The project includes reconstruction of Longfellow Road as a "Shared Street," which consists of having roadway and sidewalks at the same level.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/longfellowroadtcalm
New East Cambridge Parks
Read design and construction updates related to Binney St. Park, Rogers St. Park, and Triangle Park.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/eastcambridgeparks
Elm and Hampshire Plaza
A comprehensive renovation for Elm and Hampshire Plaza in the Wellington-Harrington neighborhood was completed in 2015.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/elmandhampshireplaza
Clement Morgan and Pine Street Parks
These two parks in Area Four were renovated in 2010 with all new play equipment, landscaping, pathways and park furniture. Clement Morgan Park lies between Columbia Street and Pine Street while Pine Street Park is found across from Clement Morgan Park.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/clemmorganpark
Permits and Maintenance
Contact information for obtaining field permits and calling about maintenance questions.
/CDD/parks/permits
Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Buildings in Cambridge are responsible for more greenhouse gas emissions than transportation and waste combined, or over 80% of the city’s total emissions.
/CDD/climateandenergy/energyefficiencyandrenewableenergy
Greene-Rose Heritage Park
Greene-Rose Heritage Park lies along Harvard Street near the intersection with Moore Street. There is also an access point from Broadway near the intersection with Windsor Street. The park was expanded and renovated in 2008 and now includes a children’s playground, water play area, open field, benches, landscaping and trees, and public art installations.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/greenrosepark
Huron Village Map
Geographic map of the Huron Village and Observatory Hill Commercial District.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/huronvillage/huronvillagemap
Kendall Square Map
Geographical map of the Kendall Square Commercial District.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/kendallsq/kendallsquaremap
Contact Us
Staff contacts for planning and urban design.
/CDD/planud/contactus
October is National Women's Business Month
The City is celebrating National Women's Business Month this October to recognize the importance of women-owned businesses and to highlight the women entrepreneurs in the local Cambridge economy.
/CDD/News/2022/9/octoberisnationalwomensbusinessmonth
2025 Cambridge Supplier Diversity Fair
Cambridge hosts its annual Supplier Diversity Fair with buyers from all City departments. Diverse businesses are invited to attend.
/CDD/News/2025/9/cambridgehostsits3rdannualsupplierdiversityfair
Cambridge Main Streets
Cambridge Main Streets Energy Efficiency Initiative will take place from June 10 - June 14 for local small businesses.
/CDD/News/2024/6/cambridgemainstreets
Father Callanan Playground at Tobin School
Father Callanan Playground is adjacent to and behind the John M. Tobin Elementary School and has also been referred to as the Tobin School Playground. The play area is behind the Tobin School between Vassal lane and Concord Avenue.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/callananplayground
Citywide Urban Design Guidelines Exhibition
Stop by the first floor of the Main Branch Library to view a display of key information from the Urban Design Guidelines, and provide feedback.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/03/26/citywideurbandesignguidelinesexhibition
Planning for Off Leash Dogs
Over the past several years the City of Cambridge has been continually working with residents to explore strategies for dogs to be off leash in city parks and open spaces while also considering the wider community’s open space needs.
/CDD/parks/osplanning/offleash/planningforoffleashuse
1055 Cambridge Street Lottery
First-time homebuyer lottery opportunity for units located at 1055 Cambridge Street
/CDD/Projects/Housing/homeownershiplottery/1055cambridgestreetlottery
Neighborhood Planning Initiative
Cambridge’s Neighborhood Planning Initiative (NPI) gives everyone in Cambridge access to local planning! Together we can improve the places and activities that are central to your daily life.
/CDD/planud/NPI
Eastern Cambridge/Kendall Square Open Space Study
Area-wide planning study for future open space improvements in Eastern Cambridge and Kendall Square, including the development of three new parks and the redesign of a plaza in the heart of the square.
/CDD/parks/osplanning/ecambkendallparks
Franklin Street Park
The award winning Franklin Street Park is located on the block between Hancock and Bay Streets in the Riverside neighborhood. Park renovations were completed in 2003.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/franklinstpark
Zoning Newsletter
Read past issues of This Month in Zoning and sign up to receive the newsletter each month
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Resources/zoningnewsletter
About Cambridge Commercial Districts
Maps and market information about each of Cambridge’s commercial districts, the development log, and the top employers within the city are all housed here.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge
Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Vacancies
The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA) is an independent public body focused on publicly beneficial real estate projects and infrastructure investment within the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2024/7/cambridgeredevelopmentauthorityadditionalvacancies
Walden Square II
Walden Square II is an affordable infill development being proposed by WinnCompanies, the owner of Walden Square Apartments, an existing 240-unit affordable development in North Cambridge.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/waldensquareii
Foundry Building
This the project page for the City-owned Foundry Building.
/CDD/Projects/EconDev/foundrybuilding
Digital Marketing
Learn how to make money selling your goods and services on the Internet.
/CDD/Calendar/2016/03/10/digitalmarketing
Upland Road Traffic Calming
The reconstruction of Upland Road from Raymond Street to Huron Avenue includes pedestrian safety improvements.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/uplandroadtrafficcalming
Linnaean Street Traffic Calming
The Linnaean Street reconstruction project includes curb extensions to enhance safety for pedestrians.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/linnaeanstreet
Top 25 Employers
Learn about the top 25 employers in Cambridge and find links to career web sites.
/CDD/factsandmaps/economicdata/top25employers
Pathmark Lottery
First-time homebuyer lottery opportunity for units at The Pathmark
/CDD/Projects/Housing/homeownershiplottery/pathmarklottery
Lafayette Square
The reconstruction of Massachusetts Avenue and Lafayette Square included the creation of a new plaza and reduction in travel lanes.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/lafayettesquare
87-101 Blanchard Road
B'nai B'rith Housing, a Greater Boston nonprofit housing developer, is proposing to expand the existing site at 89 Blanchard Road and create new affordable senior housing. They plan to create this new housing under provisions of the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO).
/CDD/Projects/Housing/87101blanchardroad
Pemberton Street Traffic Calming
The reconstruction of Fairfield Street and Pemberton Street from Rindge Avenue to Fairfield Street includes pedestrian access and pedestrian safety improvements at the intersection of Fairfield Street and Pemberton Street.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/pembertonstreetatfairfield
Spring Street Traffic Calming
The Spring Street reconstruction project includes traffic calming elements to reduce vehicle speeds and enhance safety for pedestrians.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/springstreet
Vacant Storefront Initiative
This page describes a variety of resources for property owners who have vacant storefronts in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/vacantstorefrontresources
Administration
The Administration Division provides leadership and policy direction, as well as financial and operational support to the department.
/CDD/Administration
Green Line Extension
The MBTA extended the Green Line to Union Square in Somerville and College Avenue in Medford. The MBTA also plans for a future extension to Route 16/Mystic Valley Parkway in West Medford.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/greenlineextension
Central Square Rezoning - Walking Tour
Join the Central Square Rezoning project team and the Cambridge Historical Commission for a walking tour of Central Square. Come learn about the Square's past and present to help plan for it's future!
/CDD/News/2024/9/centralsquarerezoningwalkingtour
Education Data
Data related to Cambridge Public Schools and post-secondary institutions.
/CDD/factsandmaps/educationdata
Small Business Coaching
Information about the City of Cambridge's Small Business Coaching Program. The program provides coaches to eligible small business owners interested in getting one-on-one assistance in succession planning, restaurant management, marketing, and bookkeeping.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/small...
St Patrick_50 York St
Just-A Start Corporation (JAS) purchased the property of a former church and three surrounding buildings in the Wellington/ Harrington neighborhood, converting them into 32 units of affordable rental housing.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/stpatrick50yorkst
Mount Auburn Street Traffic Calming
The project includes the construction of new sidewalk ramps and general roadway reconstruction, including curb extensions to enhance safety for pedestrians.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/mtauburngibsontcalm
Waterhouse Street Traffic Calming
Completed in 2013, in addition to sidewalk and roadway reconstruction, the project includes traffic calming elements to reduce vehicle speeds and enhance safety for pedestrians.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/waterhousestreet
Affordable Housing Trust
The Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust was established by the City Council with the mission of expanding and protecting affordable housing opportunities in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/housingtrust
Green Building/Zoning Task Force
The Green Building and Zoning Task Force analyzed various approaches and to encourage energy efficient building practices.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/greenbuildings
Second Street Traffic Calming
The project includes reconstruction of portions of the sidewalks, construction of new sidewalk ramps and roadway reconstruction, as well as traffic calming elements to reduce vehicle speeds and enhance safety for pedestrians.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/secondstreet
Creating a new ECKOS system
More than five acres of new and renovated public open space will be created in Kendall Square and Eastern Cambridge over the next few years. The Eastern Cambridge Kendall Square Open Space (ECKOS) Planning Study is working to shape these new parks.
/CDD/parks/osplanning/ecambkendallparks/creatinganeweckossystem
Eligibility Guidelines
Eligibility Guidelines for CDBG funded Workshops.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/eligi...
Town Gown Archive
Copies of older Town Gown reports.
/CDD/planud/institutionalplanning/towngownarchive
Planning Board
The Cambridge Planning Board reviews plans and proposals under the Special Permit provisions of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance and Chapter 40A of the Massachusetts General Laws, proposes or reviews zoning amendments, makes recommendations to the City Council about proposed revisions to the Zoning Ordinance, and engages in general planning efforts to improve the physical environment of the City.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard
Lower Massachusetts Avenue
Information about the Lower Massachusetts Ave commercial district in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/lowermassachusettsave
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/12/16/planningboard20251216
116 Norfolk Street
The Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) expanded and historically renovated their existing property at 116 Norfolk Street.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/116norfolkstreet
Jefferson Park - Federal
Jefferson Park Federal site consists of 175 formerly federally funded public housing apartments located near the Alewife MTBA station in North Cambridge.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/jeffersonparkfederal
YWCA
The Cambridge YWCA completed a multi-year renovation of its 103-unit property on Temple Street in Central Square in 2013. The property consists of two buildings, Main and Tanner, both of which were in need of substantial renovation.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/YWCA
Neighborhood Energy Port Walking Tour
Want to learn more about clean energy and climate opportunities in the Port? Join us for a walking tour highlighting renewable energy, critical facilities, and climate change vulnerabilities on April 24th! We will meet at Clement Morgan Park to start the tour at 2:00 PM. We can’t wait to chat with you about climate preparedness, clean energy, and our new Cambridge microgrid project, all while strolling through The (beautiful) Port – see you there!
/CDD/Calendar/2022/04/24/neighborhoodenergyportwalkingtour
WordPress for Small Businesses
This 2-session class will serve as an introductory guide to using WordPress.
/CDD/Calendar/2017/02/08/wordpressforsmallbusinesses
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/09/30/planningboard20250930
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/10/07/planningboard20251007
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/10/28/planningboard20251028
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/10/21/planningboard20251021
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/08/05/planningboard20250805
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/08/19/planningboard20250819
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/06/10/planningboard20250610
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/03/18/planningboard20250318
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/03/25/planningboard20250325
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/04/29/planningboard20250429
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/04/15/planningboard20250415
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/01/07/planningboard20250107
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/20/planningboard20250520
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/13/planningboard20250513
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/12/09/planningboard20251209
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/11/18/planningboard20251118
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/02/11/planningboard20250211
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/02/04/planningboard20250204
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/07/08/planningboard20250708
Inclusionary Housing
City of Cambridge’s Inclusionary Housing Program and Ordinance
/CDD/housing/inclusionaryhousing
Income-Eligible Bluebikes Membership
The City of Cambridge and Bluebikes offer discounted bike share memberships to income-eligible individuals aged 16+ who participate in qualifying public assistance programs OR who meet income guidelines (up to 400% of the federal poverty line), and who can't access the SNAP self-enrollment process.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bikeshare/incomeeligiblebluebi...
Citywide Multifamily Housing Proposal Information Sessions
The Cambridge City Council is discussing a proposed set of changes to allow multifamily housing in all neighborhoods of the city. Attend information sessions to learn more and provide input.
/CDD/News/2024/10/citywidemultifamilyhousingproposalinformationsessions
52 New Street
Just A Start (JAS) is constructing 106 units of affordable housing on an underutilized parcel immediately adjacent to Danehy Park in Neighborhood Nine.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/52newstreet
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2024/10/01/planningboard20241001
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2024/10/22/planningboard20241022
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2024/10/08/planningboard20241008
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2024/12/17/planningboard20241217
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2024/12/10/planningboard20241210
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2024/11/19/planningboard20241119
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2024/11/12/planningboard20241112
Scott and Irving Streets Traffic Calming
The Irving and Scott Streets reconstruction project includes traffic calming elements to reduce vehicle speeds and enhance safety for pedestrians.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/irvingandscottstreets
35 Cherry Street
The Cherry Street lot at 35 Cherry Street was acquired by the City as the result of a real estate development agreement with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) involving a number of parcels in an adjacent sector of the Main Street corridor.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/cherrystreetlot
Housing Preservation
Describes the City's work to preserve Expiring Use housing developments.
/CDD/housing/housingdevelopment/housingpreservation
City of Cambridge Announces Completion of its Disparity Study
Building on the City of Cambridge's commitment to reducing barriers and working with more diverse business owners, the City has completed its first ever Disparity Study focused on the procurement of goods and services.
/CDD/News/2023/12/cityofcambridgeannouncescompletionofitsdisparitystudy
Park Information
Information about selected parks and playgrounds
/CDD/parks/parksinfo
Zoning FAQ
View our new Cambridge Zoning FAQ here to help you navigate the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Resources/zoningfaq
New Affordable Housing at 52 New Street
Wingate Properties is processing applications from prospective tenants for new affordable rental housing at 52 New Street.
/CDD/News/2025/10/newaffordablehousingat52newstreet
Take the East Cambridge Customer Intercept Survey
This month the Economic Opportunity and Development Division is surveying customers in East Cambridge as part of our Commercial District Assessment projects.
/CDD/News/2023/6/taketheeastcambridgeinterceptsurvey
95-97 Pine Street
Homeowners Rehab Inc rehabilitated 12 existing rental units at 95-97 Pine Street.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/9597pinestreet
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2024/11/26/planningboard20241126
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/02/25/planningboard20250225
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/07/22/planningboard20250722
Bicycle Parking Zoning
CDD, working with the Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department, the Bicycle Committee and the Planning Board, developed a revised set of bicycle parking zoning requirements. These requirements were adopted into the Zoning Ordinance by the City Council on June 3, 2013.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/bicycleparkingzoning
Cambridgeport Parks
In 2013 the City completed the renovation three neighborhood parks in Cambridgeport. Alberico Park, David Nunes (Old Morse) Park, and Fulmore Park are small to moderately sized parks located in Cambridgeport along Allston Street and Sidney Street.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/cportparks
Members Sought for City of Cambridge Planning Board
The Planning Board is a group of Cambridge residents who make recommendations and decisions about urban development on behalf of the City of Cambridge. The Planning Board has seven full members and two associate members. All members can participate in Planning Board discussions.
/CDD/News/2023/2/planningboardvacancy
Members Sought for Cambridge Planning Board
The Planning Board is made up of a group of Cambridge residents who make recommendations and decisions about urban development on behalf of the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2024/11/planningboardvacancy
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.
/CDD/News/2024/9/transitadvisorycommitteevacancy
Outdoor Lighting Ordinance Task Force
This task force is working with City staff and a lighting consultant to evaluate existing standards, offer guidance for the creation of a new ordinance, propose new regulatory approaches if needed, and develop enforcement mechanism for outdoor lighting.
/CDD/Projects/EconDev/lightingordinancetaskforce
Sign Certification
Signs are regulated as outlined in Article 7.000 of the Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Signs
Grand Junction Multi-use Path
Grand Junction Multi-use Path project is a rail with trail alongside or within the Grand Junction railroad right of way, which is now primarily owned by the state, without precluding future transit on the corridor. The first segment was constructed in 2016 as part of the Grand Junction Park. Since then, the City committed $10 million for the design and construction of the path north of Broadway, and MIT committed $8.5 million and right-of-way for the design and construction on MIT-owned portions between Main Street and Pacific Street. In 2019 the City began the design process for the multi-use path between the Charles River at the BU Bridge and the Cambridge Somerville city line.
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/grandjunctionpathway
Kendall Square
Information about the Kendall Square Commercial District
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/kendallsq
Norfolk Street
The City of Cambridge, with the Affordable Housing Trust (CAHT) and the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA), celebrated a recently completed Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) development at 116 Norfolk Street. With funding from the City through the Affordable Housing Trust, as well as other public and private funding, the CHA has completed the construction of 62 new PSH units.
/CDD/News/2025/6/norfolkstreet
New Mobility Planning
The New Mobility planning process is an effort to learn about and plan for New Mobility options in a way that aligns with and advances existing values and policies.
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/newmobilityplanning
Inman Square
Inman Square is a lively district with a mix of housing and ground floor retail uses that gives it a strong neighborhood feel combined with shopping and dining activity.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/inmansq
PARKing Day Open House
Have questions about PARK(ing) Day in Cambridge? Drop in anytime from 4-7pm on April 18th and get them answered.
/CDD/Calendar/2017/04/19/parkingdayopenhouse
Cambridge Businesses Honored at 2023 Legacy Luncheon Awards
On Wednesday, May 3, 2023, the City of Cambridge kicked off National Small Business Week by hosting the Cambridge Legacy Business Luncheon. This event celebrates some of the oldest businesses in Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2023/5/cambridgebusinesseshonoredat2023legacyluncheonawards
Retail Land Use Initiative
This page provides information on updates being made to the retail section of the table of uses in the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance
/CDD/Projects/EconDev/retaillanduseinitiative
Housing
The Housing Department works to promote and maintain the socioeconomic diversity of the city by managing and implementing the City’s efforts to meet the housing needs of low-, and moderate-, and middle-income residents, and develops initiatives to preserve and expand the City's stock of affordable rental and homeownership housing.
/CDD/housing
52 New Street
52 New Street, a new, affordable, rental apartment building, will begin accepting applications for a resident lottery on July 1
/CDD/News/2025/5/52newstreet
Cambridge Businesses Honored at 2024 Legacy Luncheon Awards
On Wednesday, May 1, 2024 the City of Cambridge kicked off National Small Business Month by hosting the Cambridge Legacy Business Luncheon. This event celebrates some of the oldest businesses in Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2024/5/cambridgebusinesseshonoredat2024legacyluncheonawards
Chapman Arms
Located at 122 Mount Auburn Street the Chapman Arms Apartments, formerly known as the Craigie Arms, was purchased by Homeowners Rehab Inc. in 2011, preserving 25 affordable housing units. Major rehab was completed in Summer of 2014.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/chapmanarms
Contact Us
Staff Contacts for Zoning and Development
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/contactus
Small Business Assistance
This page provides a listing of available city resources for businesses of all kinds from small retail stores to growing entrepreneurial ventures.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance
Retail Strategic Plan
Best practice policies and programs that will support and enhance the ground level active use and retail environment in Cambridge.
/CDD/Projects/EconDev/retailstrategicplan
Logan Noise Study
The City of Cambridge is a member of Logan Noise Study Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/logannoisestudy
Succession Planning
The Economic Opportunity and Development Division offers resources for small business owners planning and thinking about succession planning.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/succe...
52 New Street - New Info Sessions
52 New Street, a new, affordable, rental apartment building, will begin accepting applications for a resident lottery on July 1
/CDD/News/2025/6/52newstreet
Vacant Storefront Creative Design Contest
This page describes the City of Cambridge's Vacant Storefront Design Contest.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/vacantstorefrontresources/vacantstorefrontcreatived...
Transportation Data
Journey to Work and related data about commuting and transportation patterns in Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/transportationdata
Pedestrian Committee
The Cambridge Pedestrian Committee works to create a more comfortable, safe, and pleasant environment for walking in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/forthepublic/pedestriancomm
Yerxa Road Underpass
This project improved public safety by completely reconstructing the Yerxa Road underpass that passes beneath the Fitchburg Branch MBTA railroad tracks.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/yerxaroadunderpass
CharlieCards
Where to get a CharlieCard in Cambridge
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bytransit/CharlieCards
New Development Log Available - 2022 Q4
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.
/CDD/News/2023/3/newdevelopmentlogavailable2022q4
New Development Log Available - 2022 Q3
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.
/CDD/News/2022/11/newdevelopmentlogavailable2022q3
Home Improvement Programs
The Home Improvement Program (HIP) provides low-interest and zero interest home improvement loans to eligible owners of condominiums, single family homes and multi-family houses.
/CDD/housing/forhomeowners/hip
Affordable Mortgage Products
Information about affordable mortgage products available qualified buyers.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/mortgageproducts
Cambridge Riverfront Plan
The Cambridge Riverfront Plan suggests ways to improve connections from the neighborhoods to the Charles River
/CDD/Projects/Planning/Riverfront
Traffic Calming Program
The goal of traffic calming projects is to improve the quality of life in neighborhoods and allow cars to peacefully coexist with other modes of transportation.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/trafficcalmingprogram
Urban Design
What is urban design? This term means different things to different people.
/CDD/planud/urbandesignprimer
Harvard Square Design Project
Harvard Square street and sidewalk reconstruction project to promote bicycle and walking. Also includes recommendation to build multi-use path at Flagstaff Park.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/harvardsquare
Social Media Strategy Workshop Series
The Social Media Strategy Workshops Series are three workshops designed to be taken together as each one builds upon the next workshop. In this three-session workshop series, you'll be building your own social media strategy from the ground up, including making your own graphics with Canva, researching effective hashtags for your business, and reviewing how to post on different social media platforms. At the end of this workshop series, you'll leave with a social media plan that you can start using immediately!
/CDD/News/2023/2/socialmediastrategyworkshopseries
Kendall Square Central Square Planning Study (K2C2)
The City of Cambridge completed a comprehensive planning study to develop a vision for Central Square, Kendall Square, and the area along Main Street connecting the two squares including the Osborn Triangle.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/K2C2
Watertown-Cambridge Greenway
A multi-use path that follows a former railroad right-of-way from Fresh Pond in Cambridge and to Arlington Street in Watertown.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/watertowncambridgegreenway
Planning Board Advisory Consultation
Information about projects subject to the Planning Board Advisory Consultation provisions of the zoning ordinance
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/pbadvisoryconsultation
52 New Street - Application Live!
The application for 52 New Street, a new, affordable, rental apartment building, is live until Thursday, August 29, 2025 at 3 p.m.
/CDD/News/2025/7/52newstreetapplicationlive!
Transit Advisory Committee Vacancy
The Transit Advisory Committee advises on city and state projects, positions and policies on transit service planning, scheduling, infrastructure modernization, expansion and long-term sustainable funding for transit.
/CDD/News/2023/3/transitadvisorycommitteevacancy
Urban Agriculture Task Force
The Urban Agriculture Task Force is developing an ordinance that includes 1) zoning to explicitly allow agricultural activities, and, 2) regulations to support and limit activities.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/urbanagriculturetaskforce
49 Sixth St Launch Event
On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, leaders from the City of Cambridge and the Commonwealth gathered with nonprofit Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH) to mark the beginning of renovations at the former Sacred Heart church rectory and school in East Cambridge. By the end of 2027, POAH plans to complete construction on the property, which will create 46 new permanently affordable apartment homes.
/CDD/News/2025/7/49sixthstlaunchevent
Homeownership Program Review
As part of the ongoing Homeownership Program Review process, the Housing Division is inviting current owners of affordable homes to attend an information and feedback session. These meetings are being held to provide an overview of the proposed recommendations to some of the program terms, including the way units increase in value and whether units can be passed through inheritance.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/affordablehomeownershipprogramreview_dec2023
Central Square
Information about the Central Square Commercial District. It includes market profile, business association and study documents about the Square.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/centralsq
CDD Climate Resilience Zoning
Information on Cambridge's recently-adopted zoning amendments related to climate resilience.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/climateresiliencezoning
2022 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2022.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2022pb
By Foot
Cambridge is a great city for walkers. It is compact and flat, it is well served by public transportation, and its mix of housing, stores, services, work places and parks means that many destinations are within easy walking distance.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot
City of Cambridge Becomes the First City in New England to Work with BlocPower on Building Decarbonization
The City of Cambridge and BlocPower announced a new pilot partnership to help multifamily buildings upgrade with energy efficiency, rooftop solar, and more comfortable, all-electric heating, cooling, and hot water systems. Supporting buildings in completing such upgrades is an important step in achieving the goals of Cambridge’s Net Zero Action Plan, including the city’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050.
/CDD/News/2023/4/cityandblocpowerpartnershiponbuildingdecarbonization
Article 22 Green Building Requirements
Guidance for complying with green building requirements found in Article 22 of the zoning ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/article22greenbldgrequirements
1 - East Cambridge
Once a village of its own, East Cambridge is one of Cambridge's oldest residential neighborhoods and is historically home to many of the city's industries, both old and new. It sits along the Charles River north of Kendall Square and east of the Grand Junction Railroad.
/CDD/planud/neighplan/neighs/1
Safe Routes to School
Webpage for the Cambridge Safe Routes to School program to support and encourage students who wish to walk or bike to school.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/saferoutestoschool
Recent Data Updates
Recent data updates including new Neighborhood Profile report, a new housing data page, 2023 Q2 update to the rent tracker dashboard and several more.
/CDD/News/2023/8/recentdataupdates
Park Projects
Park projects and planning efforts currently underway or recently completed.
/CDD/parks/parksprojects
Small Business E-Commerce Grant
Information about the City of Cambridge's Small Business E-Commerce Program. The program provides website and e-commerce assistance to retailers, restaurants, home-based business through grants.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/small...
Top 25 Employer List for 2022
Learn about the top 25 employers in Cambridge and find links to career web sites.
/CDD/News/2023/1/top25employerlistfor2022
October is National Women's 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.
/CDD/News/2023/9/octoberisnationalwomensbusinessmonth
Harvard Square
Information about the Harvard Square Commercial District. It includes market profile, business association and study documents about the area.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/harvardsq
Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration
Cambridge is participating in the Commonwealth's Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration Program. This page provides information about the program goals and the development of the ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/fossilfuelfreedemo
Boosting Business Blocks Grant
The Boosting Business Blocks Grant offers Cambridge businesses, business associations, and groups of neighborhood businesses the opportunity to secure one-time grant funding for well-designed projects that bring together neighborhood business interests around shared goals of improved design, promotion, and business resilience in a commercial area.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/boostingbusinessblocks
Small Business Enhancement Program
Information about the City of Cambridge's Small Business Enhancement Program. The program provides equipment and marketing assistance to retailers, restaurants, home-based business through grants.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/small...
Pedestrian Plan
Reviews elements of the Cambridge Pedestrian Plan
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms/pedestrianplan
Other Data Sources
Other data sources for statistical analysis and research.
/CDD/factsandmaps/othercitydatasources
Zoning Ordinance
City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance Text
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Ordinance
Past Projects
Learn how local businesses and business associations used the Boosting Business Blocks Grant (formerly known as the Small Business Challenge).
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/boostingbusinessblocks/sbcw...
Available Webinars and Video Workshops
This page lists available recorded business development workshops available to Cambridge residents and business owners.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/Workshops/availablerecorded...
Persons with Disabilities
Getting around Cambridge for persons with disabilities, on foot or by transit or taxi.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/personswithdisabilities
List of Studies
The City of Cambridge looks to internal and external studies to evaluate transportation projects and inform decisions on best practices in facility design.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/evaluationsandstudies/listofstudies
Bluebikes Bike Share
The City jointly owns the Bluebikes bike share system with Boston, Brookline, Everett, and Somerville. New communities include Arlington, Chelsea, Newton, Revere and Watertown.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bikeshare
Transit in Cambridge
Learn more about how Cambridge participates in transit planning and the MBTA.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit
Cambridge Community Development Department Supports Supplier Diversity
CDD supports supplier diversity as a way for diverse businesses (minority-owned / LGBTQ+ owned / disability-owned / veteran-owned / woman-owned) to grow and succeed. Event highlight is the Cambridge Supplier Diversity Fair co-hosted by MIT on Tuesday, October 5, 2023.
/CDD/News/2023/10/cambridgecommunitydevelopmentdepartmentsupportssupplierdiversity
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.
/CDD/News/2024/9/womensbusinessmonth
Zoning Maps
City of Cambridge zoning and land use maps
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Maps
Evaluations and Studies
Evaluations and Studies are conducted by the City of Cambridge on many projects.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/evaluationsandstudies
Bicycle Workshops
The City of Cambridge offers free bicycle training workshops throughout the year for people who work or live in Cambridge. Updated often!
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycleworkshops
Bicycle Parking
Find out more about parking your bicycle in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking
344 Broadway City Hall Annex Building Profile
Green building information about the renovation of the historic Cambridge City Hall Annex at 344 Broadway, the first LEED-Gold municipal building in Massachusetts.
/CDD/climateandenergy/municipalsustainability/344broadway
Homeownership Program Term Changes
The Housing Department is updating the program. Current homeowners can choose to sign an amendment (update) to their Affordable Housing Restriction.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/affordablehomeownershipchanges2025
2015 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2015.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2015pb
CPAC Older Agendas and Minutes
Climate Protection Action Committee pre-2012 agendas and minutes
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/climateprotectionactioncommittee/olderagendasa...
2017 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2017.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2017pb
Rules of the Road
Learn about the rules of the road in Massachusetts, whether you drive, bike, or walk.
/CDD/Transportation/rulesoftheroad
Planning Board Meetings
Meeting Agendas, Hearing Notices and Transcripts for the Cambridge Planning Board.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings
Bus Priority
bus priority projects
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit/buspriority
Other Housing Providers
Contact information for other housing providers in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/resourcesandadditionalinformation/otherproviders
Past Zoning Amendments Not Adopted
Proposed Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance that were not adopted, either due to being placed on file because the time period for consideration had expired, or due to failure to receive the necessary votes on consideration by the City Council.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments/pastzoningamendmentsnotadopted
Adopted Zoning Amendments
Listing of adopted amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments/adoptedzoningamendments