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Bluebikes Introduction
Want to learn how to get around using Bluebikes? The Department of Transportation will be hosting a workshop on how to use them in the City of Cambridge!
/CDD/Calendar/2025/10/21/bluebikesintroduction
CharlieCards
Where to get a CharlieCard in Cambridge
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bytransit/CharlieCards
Bluebikes Youth Membership Drop-In Info Session
Come learn about the $25 Annual Youth Bluebikes Membership for high school teens ages 16-19 who live in Cambridge. Learn how to sign up and how you can start riding Bluebikes.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/08/11/bluebikesyouthmembershipdropininfosession
Digital Marketing
Learn how to make money selling your goods and services on the Internet.
/CDD/Calendar/2016/03/10/digitalmarketing
Zoning Centennial
Did you know that 2024 is the 100th anniversary of the Zoning Ordinance? Learn about how the Zoning & Development Division at CDD is reflecting on a century of zoning and how it has guided the development of the city.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/zoningcentennial
Type of Business
This page is to help answer "how to find available start up assitance"
/CDD/otherpages/startuptypes/typeofbusiness
Steps to Start A Business Workshop Series
This is a comprehensive four-week workshop for new and existing business owners who want to improve how their business operates.
/CDD/News/2025/4/stepstostartabusinessworkshopseries
Transit in Cambridge
Learn more about how Cambridge participates in transit planning and the MBTA.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit
Starting a Business Series - Workshop 3
This is the third workshop in a series to help new and existing business owners who want to improve how they manage business operations.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/06/10/startingabusinessworkshop3
Bicycle Maintenance Basics Workshop
Learn how to fix a flat, adjust your brakes and much more. Come to one or best sessions!
/CDD/Calendar/2016/05/25/bicyclemaintenancebasicsworkshop
Bicycle Maintenance Basics Workshop
Learn how to fix a flat, adjust your brakes and much more. Come to one or best sessions!
/CDD/Calendar/2016/05/25/bicyclemaintenancebeyondbasicsworkshop
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Learn about how the city of Cambridge tracks greenhouse gas emissions.
/CDD/climateandenergy/greenhousegasemissions
Hubway Basics Workshops
Learn the rules of the road for biking in an urban setting. Learn how to use the Hubway Bike Share system.
/CDD/Calendar/2017/04/26/hubwaybasicsworkshop
PTDM
Information about the Parking and Transportation Demand Management Ordinance, how it is triggered and what compliance entails.
/CDD/Transportation/fordevelopers/ptdm
On-Bicycle Refresher Course
Do you know how to ride a bike, but are a little nervous to ride on the road? This is the course for you!
/CDD/Calendar/2016/05/14/onbicyclerefreshercourse
Urban Cycling Basics - Healthy Aging in Cambridge
Are you interested in learning how to bicycle around the city of Cambridge? Join us and learn the rules of the road, strategies for riding safely and tips for comfort!
/CDD/Calendar/2016/05/19/urbancyclingbasicshealthyagingincambridge
Report a Street Problem
How to report problems getting around Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/reportingproblems
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
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Historical Commission Certificates
Explains how the Cambridge Historical Commission regulates designated historic properties, describing process to obtain the required certificates to alter designated historic properties and how to obtain a demolition permit.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/S/sbshistoricalcomm2012
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...
Our Parks, Our Plan: Setting Our Goals
It’s time to set goals! Join the Our Parks, Our Plan team for a virtual public meeting to discuss what our goals should be, and how they will help lead us to better parks and open spaces.
/CDD/Calendar/2022/06/30/ourparks,ourplansettingourgoals
Step-by-Step Guide to Curb Cuts
Brochure explaining who needs a curb cut and how to apply for one.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/S/sbscurbcuts1998
Car-Free With Kids
Learn how to get around Cambridge with kids on bike, transit, and on foot.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/carfreewithkids
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
Pilot Program
CitySmart began as a pilot program to test how social marketing affects transportation choices. We hoped to shift approximately 10% of single-occupant vehicle trips to more sustainable modes, such as walking, bicycling and transit.
/CDD/Transportation/CitySmart/citysmartpilotprogram
City of Cambridge Offers Support and 1-on-1 Coaching to Food Businesses
The Economic Opportunity and Development Division is offering free one-on-one coaching and a 3-part workshop series for food businesses in April! Whether you are a food business owner looking for clarity on your strategic goals, feeling confused or overwhelmed by food business financials, or unsure how best to attract today’s customers, these workshops and 1-on-1 coaching are aimed at putting your business on the track to success.
/CDD/News/2025/3/cityofcambridgeofferssupportand1on1coachingtofoodbusinesses
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!
Multifamily Energy Efficiency Workshop
Are you an owner or manager of a multi-family building in Cambridge? Hear about how your neighbors are saving thousands each year with energy efficiency upgrades. Come learn and connect with incentives for lighting upgrades, heating upgrades, insulation, solar, and energy management tools. Organized by the Cambridge Compact, Eversource, the City of Cambridge, and Homeowners' Rehab Inc.
/CDD/Calendar/2017/04/25/multifamilyenergyefficiencyworkshop
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
240 Broadway (Broadway Park) - AHO Community Meeting
Due to technical issues, Just A Start is holding a repeat session of their first AHO meeting on September 18th at 6 p.m. via Zoom to present updated designs and to collect feedback on their proposed development at 240 Broadway (Broadway Park). Click here for more information on how to listen in.
You may attend this meeting via Zoom. Please registerhere to attend the meeting online.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/09/18/240broadwaybroadwayparkahocommunitymeeting
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
Urban Cycling Basics
Our bicycle commuter workshops are great for businesses, communities, universities, or bike groups looking to promote healthy transportation options. The workshop is designed for people who know how to ride a bike, but would like to start using their bikes to ride to work, school, or clubs. Attendees receive safety hand outs, and the instructor will have materials on hand to demonstrate principles, as well as to answer any questions attendees may have. - See more at: http://massbike.org/education/bike-safety-education/#sthash.KcPycpUu.dpuf
/CDD/Calendar/2013/08/20/urbancyclingbasics
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
Black, Indigenous, People of Color-Owned (BIPOC) Business Advisory Committee
The goal of this Committee is to work with City staff to develop recommendations on how the City can better assist BIPOC-owned businesses.
The Committee will be a sounding board for ideas on strengthening the City’s outreach efforts, information-sharing, business programs and policies, and overall relationship with local BIPOC-owned businesses.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/bipocbusinessadvisorycommit...
Bike Maintenance Basics
For those interested in short trips around town, this workshop is for you. Our bicycle commuter workshops are great for businesses, communities, universities, or bike groups looking to promote healthy transportation options. The workshop is designed for people who know how to ride a bike, but would like to start using their bikes to ride to work, school, or clubs. Attendees receive safety hand outs, and the instructor will have materials on hand to demonstrate principles, as well as to answer any questions attendees may have.
/CDD/Calendar/2013/10/09/bikemaintenancebasics
Bike Maintenance - beyond basics
For those interested in short trips around town, this workshop is for you. Our bicycle commuter workshops are great for businesses, communities, universities, or bike groups looking to promote healthy transportation options. The workshop is designed for people who know how to ride a bike, but would like to start using their bikes to ride to work, school, or clubs. Attendees receive safety hand outs, and the instructor will have materials on hand to demonstrate principles, as well as to answer any questions attendees may have.
/CDD/Calendar/2013/10/10/bikemaintenancebeyondbasics
Project Evaluations
The city does evaluations of major projects upon completion to see how the end result meets the goals set for the project and whether there are any lessons for future projects.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/evaluationsandstudies/projectevaluations
Women-Powered Cycling Workshop
For those interested in short trips around town, this workshop is for you. Our bicycle commuter workshops are great for businesses, communities, universities, or bike groups looking to promote healthy transportation options. The workshop is designed for people who know how to ride a bike, but would like to start using their bikes to ride to work, school, or clubs. Attendees receive safety hand outs, and the instructor will have materials on hand to demonstrate principles, as well as to answer any questions attendees may have.
/CDD/Calendar/2013/09/18/womenpoweredcyclingworkshop
Attend the Small Business Open House
Curious about the city services available to help your small business in Cambridge? Drop in at any time to speak with staff from different departments to learn how the City can help!
/CDD/News/2025/7/smallbusinessopenhouse
Urban Cycling and the Law
This class is for those who have participated in a basic maintenance course, or understand basic bicycle maintenance. Our bicycle commuter workshops are great for businesses, communities, universities, or bike groups looking to promote healthy transportation options. The workshop is designed for people who know how to ride a bike, but would like to start using their bikes to ride to work, school, or clubs. Attendees receive safety hand outs, and the instructor will have materials on hand to demonstrate principles, as well as to answer any questions attendees may have.
/CDD/Calendar/2013/11/05/urbancyclingandthelaw
Cambridge Riverfront Plan Reconnecting People to the Water
This 2011 plan seeks to create a vision for how the Charles River may become an even more valuable resource than it already is, one that is more easily useable for everyone and provides a richer and more inviting experience.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/riverfrontplan2011
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
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
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
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...
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
Business Development Workshops
This page describes the variety of business development workshops that the City of Cambridge offers.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/Workshops
New Small Business Planning Workshop Series
Calling all Cambridge entrepreneurs! Are you looking for some business planning assistance? Attend our upcoming series to receive tips and tools in your business journey.
/CDD/News/2024/1/newsmallbusinessplanningworkshopseries
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
CitySmart for City Employees
Do you work for the City of Cambridge? Well do we have some transportation options for you!
/CDD/Transportation/CitySmart/citysmartforcityemployees
Other Available Units
Affordable ownership and rental opportunities not administered by the Housing Division.
/CDD/housing/forapplicants/availableunits
Housing Data
Sources for housing data about the City of Cambridge
/CDD/factsandmaps/housingdata
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...
Zoning
The Cambridge Zoning Ordinance is the municipal regulatory framework that controls urban development in the city.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning
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
Cambridge Riverfront Plan
The Cambridge Riverfront Plan suggests ways to improve connections from the neighborhoods to the Charles River
/CDD/Projects/Planning/Riverfront
Income Eligible Reduced Fare Program
The MBTA Income-Eligible Reduced Fare Program offers discounted MBTA passes to eligible Cambridge residents between the ages of 18-64 who are enrolled in an approved state assistance program. Applicants need to provide a photo ID and proof of enrollment in a state assistance program.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bytransit/incomeeligiblereducedfareprogram
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
Policies
City, State, and Federal Policies all guide bicycle planning in Cambridge. Following please find many of the policies that guide planning in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/policies
Remote Planning Board Meetings
Information about Cambridge Planning Board Meetings held remotely using Zoom Webinar platform.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/remoteplanningboardmeetings
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
Carpool
Do you need to travel via car? Try looking into the option of carpooling. Below are links to two carpool options in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bycar/carpool
Draft One Year Action Plan
A Draft version of the FY2024 One Action Plan is available for review.
/CDD/News/2023/4/draftoneyearactionplan
Broadway Eco-Totem Bicycle Counter
The Eco-Totem on Broadway in Kendall Square counts cyclists via in-ground loop detectors.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/ecototem
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
Planning for Climate Change Vulnerability
The City has a number of initiatives to reduce Cambridge's contribution to atmospheric greenhouse gases through energy efficiency projects in buildings, renewable energy (e.g., solar), reduced reliance on automobiles, and other measures.
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/climatechangeresilianceandadaptationpage
Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration Ordinance
The City of Cambridge is working to adopt an ordinance that will require new buildings and buildings undergoing a major renovation to eliminate the use of fossil fuels. Making buildings fossil fuel free means healthier homes and buildings and will help Cambridge reach our climate goals.
/CDD/News/2023/7/fossilfuelfreedemonstrationordinance
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
CitySmart
CitySmart connects you with the information and resources you need to get around without getting behind the wheel. Biking, walking and transit take you where you need to be. Whether it’s a trip to the grocery store or a day at the beach—getting there really can be half the fun!
/CDD/Transportation/CitySmart
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
City of Cambridge Food Truck Program
The City of Cambridge Food Truck Program is designed to provide entrepreneurial opportunities for food truck operators, provide more diverse food options in targeted areas, and bring additional street level amenities to Cambridge public spaces.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/foodb...
Federal Grants
CDBG, HOME and ESG entitlement grants for affordable housing, community development and homeless services.
/CDD/federalgrants
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
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
Capital Network Workshop Series
Calling in all Cambridge entrepreneurs! Enroll today in a free workshop series facilitated by The Capital Network. The workshops will focus on business planning, financials, and storytelling.
/CDD/News/2023/3/thecapitalnetworkbusinessworkshopseries
Bluebikes Ebikes
Bluebikes ebikes have arrived in Cambridge. Pedal-assist technology and custom reflective paint make them perfect for both leisurely rides and effortless commutes. Bluebikes members enjoy the best ebike rates per minute. Find one near you and take it for a spin. Make sure to follow the rules of the road!
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bikeshare/bluebikesebikes
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
Small Business Resource Fair
Cambridge entrepreneurs and small business owners are invited to connect with industry experts, financiers, mentors, and fellow business owners to help start or grow your business.
/CDD/News/2024/4/smallbusinessresourcefair
Credit 101 Workshop
Workshop on understanding and improving credit
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/workshoponmanagingfinances
Food Business Incubator Program
The Food Business Incubator Program offers technical assistance and other resources to food businesses in Cambridge, with a focus on women- and minority-owned businesses as well as first-time food entrepreneurs.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/foodb...
Downloads: Bike
Biking around the city can take some getting used to, so here are some CitySmart resources to help you get rolling.
/CDD/Transportation/CitySmart/citysmartbybike
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
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
Carshare
Carsharing gives Cambridge residents a transportation option that complements the city’s robust transit, bicycling, and walking networks. Carshare members get the benefit of a private car without the cost and responsibility owning one.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bycar/carshare
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
Zoning and Development
CDD provides professional support on matters related to zoning policy and urban design, and to the work of the Cambridge Planning Board.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment
Downpayment Assistance
Downpayment Assistance for Cambridge Homebuyers
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/downpaymentassistance
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
Transit Service Analysis Study
Buses in Cambridge operate on the street network in mixed traffic, exposing bus passengers to the same delay from congestion as drivers of single occupancy vehicles. The Transit Service Analysis Study used a data driven approach to assess bus routes in Cambridge to prioritize locations for bus priority street treatments.
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/transitserviceanalysisstudy
Legacy Business Program
This page provides information on the City of Cambridge's Legacy Business Program
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/legac...
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...
Cambridge Street Code
Whether you walk, bike, drive, or use public transportation, you play an active role in the transportation system. In order for this system to function well, each person must follow the rules, pay attention, and be patient and courteous.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/cambridgestreetcode
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
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
Rental Preference Point Updates 2025
The Housing Department has updated the preference point system used for the Inclusionary Housing Rental Program.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/rentalpreferencepointupdates2025
Article 22 Green Building Requirements
Guidance for complying with green building requirements found in Article 22 of the zoning ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/article22greenbldgrequirements
Urban Design
What is urban design? This term means different things to different people.
/CDD/planud/urbandesignprimer
Pedestrian Safety
Designing intersections for pedestrian safety is a priority whenever roads are reconstructed.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/pedestriansafety
Accessibility
Accessibility is built into all pedestrian projects.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/Walking/Accessability
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
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
Evaluations and Studies
Evaluations and Studies are conducted by the City of Cambridge on many projects.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/evaluationsandstudies
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...
By Transit
With six Red and Green Line MBTA stations, dozens of bus routes, the EZRide and Cambridgeside Mall Shuttles, getting around Cambridge on public transit is always a great option. See below for transit routes and providers.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bytransit
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
First-Time Homebuyer Lottery Opportunity - The Pathmark
The City of Cambridge is offering four new affordable condominiums for sale to income-eligible first-time homebuyers through a lottery process. These affordable condos are located at The Pathmark, 97 Elmwood Street in North Cambridge near Davis Square.
/CDD/News/2023/8/firsttimehomebuyerlotteryopportunitythepathmark
Housing Program Eligibility Tool
Enter your household size and household income into this tool to get information on which housing programs you may be eligible for.
/CDD/housing/forapplicants/housingprogrameligibilitytool
Bicycle WikiMap
The Cambridge Bicycle WikiMap allows location-based suggestions and input about facilities for bicycling in Cambridge. Comments submitted through the WikiMap will be regularly evaluated and taken into account for future planning efforts.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicyclewikimap
Bow Tie Ride Returns Sunday, October 2
Ever notice that the City of Cambridge is in the shape of a bow tie? Join the Cambridge Bicycle Committee for a relaxed, scenic two-hour ride tracing the bow tie shaped boundaries of the city.
/CDD/News/2022/9/bowtieride
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
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
CDD Climate Resilience Zoning
Information on Cambridge's recently-adopted zoning amendments related to climate resilience.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/climateresiliencezoning
Ebikes
Information on ebikes
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/ebikes
FAQs
The Small Business Challenge Grant offers Cambridge businesses, business associations, and groups of neighborhood businesses the opportunity to secure one-time grant funding in increments of $1,000 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/FAQs...
For Food Truck Applicants
This page describes the eligibility criteria and application process for food truck vendors interested in applying to the City of Cambridge Food Truck Pilot
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/foodb...
Persons with Disabilities
Getting around Cambridge for persons with disabilities, on foot or by transit or taxi.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/personswithdisabilities
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
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
Contact Us
Staff Contacts for Zoning and Development
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/contactus
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
Bluebikes Station Suggestion Map
The Bluebikes Station Suggestion Map allows users to suggest new locations for Bluebikes Stations. The input received through this map will inform future planning and expansion of the Bluebikes system.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bikeshare/bluebikesstationsugg...
Bluebikes Youth Discount
Are you a Cambridge high school student between the ages of 16 and 19? Do you want to pay $25 a year for a Bluebikes membership? Look no further!
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bikeshare/bluebikesyouthdiscou...
Ridesharing
Save time and money by sharing a ride. Besides splitting gas and parking costs, more people carpooling means fewer cars on the road, so you’ll get where you’re going faster.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bycar/carpool/ridesharing
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
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
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
Mediation Services
Mediation Services is a professional mediation, dispute resolution and education service program based in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forrenters/mediationservices
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
Employee Commute Information
Are you a Cambridge business owner who has limited parking? Do you want to make it easy for employees and patrons to leave their cars at home?
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/commuteinfo
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
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
Other Sustainability Information
In addition to initiatives to make buildings and vehicles more sustainable, the City addresses other issues including: Urban forestry, Recycling, composting, and waste reduction, Environmentally preferable purchasing, Stormwater management and Safe drinking water supply.
/CDD/climateandenergy/municipalsustainability/othersustainabilityissues
Designing for Bikes
Cambridge promotes bicycling as a healthy, environmentally friendly way of getting around as an important part of the City's efforts to improve mobility and protect our environment. Cambridge is well suited to bicycling and more people are using their bikes every day for commuting, shopping, and general transportation
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycling
Traffic Signals
The City's traffic signals are timed with pedestrians in mind.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/Walking/trafficsignals
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 (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
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
Bus Priority
bus priority projects
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit/buspriority
Pedestrian Plan
Reviews elements of the Cambridge Pedestrian Plan
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms/pedestrianplan
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
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
Planning Board Advisory Consultation
Information about projects subject to the Planning Board Advisory Consultation provisions of the zoning ordinance
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/pbadvisoryconsultation
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
Bicycle Lanes
Many people in Cambridge choose to use a bicycle to get around. Some do it for convenience, others for exercise, and yet others because it is economical.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycling/bicyclelanes
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
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
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...
Design Guidelines and Area Plans
The Zoning Ordinance refers to urban design plans and guidelines that apply to certain parts of the city or to certain categories of development.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/designguidelines
Food Truck Vending in Cambridge
Food trucks are an important and growing part of the Cambridge food businesses economy. Like farmers markets and open air festivals, food trucks offer new food businesses a relatively low-cost opportunity for testing menu items, building brand awareness, and growing a loyal customer base. Additionally, their “pop-up” style of operation introduces a playful element to public spaces that residents, workers, and visitors enjoy and appreciate as part of a high quality of life in Cambridge.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/foodb...
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
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
By Car
Learn more about getting around Cambridge by car.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bycar
Rules of the Road
In general, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists when traveling on the public ways in Massachusetts.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/rulesoftheroad
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
Special Permits
Information about the Planning Board Special Permit Process and downloadable copy of the application form. Also links to active and completed special permit documents.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/specialpermits
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
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
Limited Equity Cooperatives
Information about limited equity cooperatives, several of which are found in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/coops
Vacant Storefront Initiative
This page describes a variety of resources for property owners who have vacant storefronts in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/vacantstorefrontresources
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
Rules of the Road
Learn about the rules of the road in Massachusetts, whether you drive, bike, or walk.
/CDD/Transportation/rulesoftheroad
Zoning Ordinance
City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance Text
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Ordinance
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
Rental Applicant Pool
Description of the Rental Applicant Pool for applying for Inclusionary Rental units.
/CDD/housing/forapplicants/rentalapplicantpool
Logan Noise Study
The City of Cambridge is a member of Logan Noise Study Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/logannoisestudy
Cambridge Zones for Multifamily Housing Citywide
On February 10, 2025, the Cambridge City Council voted to adopt zoning amendments that allow multifamily housing in all Cambridge neighborhoods.
/CDD/News/2025/2/zoningformultifamilyhousingcitywide
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
Separated Bicycle Facilities
The term “separated bicycle facility” is generally used to refer to bicycle facilities that follow street alignments but where there is a physical separation between the bicycle travel area and the motor vehicle travel area, often through barriers or grade separation. They are located between the street and the sidewalk, or between the parking lane and the sidewalk and may be referred to as buffered bike lanes, raised bike lanes, cycle tracks, or one-way bike paths.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycling/cycletracks
Zoning Amendments
Proposed Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance currently or previously under consideration, including proposed text and schedule for action.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments
Other Housing Providers
Contact information for other housing providers in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/resourcesandadditionalinformation/otherproviders
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
100 Percent Affordable Housing Overlay
The 100%-Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO) is designed to help affordable housing developers create new affordable homes more quickly, more cost effectively, and in areas of the city where there are currently fewer affordable housing opportunities.
/CDD/housing/housingdevelopment/aho
Bicycle Parking
Find out more about parking your bicycle in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking
Bicycle Toolbox
Bicycle facilities, markings, signs, and signals that can be used to make streets, paths, and intersections safer and more convenient for cyclists.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/biketoolbox
Transportation Data
Journey to Work and related data about commuting and transportation patterns in Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/transportationdata
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...