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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
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
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
Bicycle Parking
Find out more about parking your bicycle in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking
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
Digital Marketing
Learn how to make money selling your goods and services on the Internet.
/CDD/Calendar/2016/03/10/digitalmarketing
By Car
Learn more about getting around Cambridge by car.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bycar
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
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...
Transit in Cambridge
Learn more about how Cambridge participates in transit planning and the MBTA.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit
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
Huron Avenue Reconstruction
Learn more about the Huron Avenue Reconstruction project under design.
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/huronavenuereconstruction
Belmont - Cambridge - Somerville Path
Learn more about MassDOT's community path project that connects Belmont, Cambridge, and Somerville.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/belmontcambridgesomervillepath
Western Avenue
Learn more about the Western Avenue Reconstruction Project.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/westernavenue
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
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
Regional Transportation Planning
Cambridge participates in regional transportation planning efforts. Learn more about planning, funding, and projects.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning
Raymond Park Renovation Virtual Open House
One of four virtual open houses to answer questions about the renovation plan and next steps in the process.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/04/17/raymondparkrenovationvirtualopenhouse4
Raymond Park Renovation Virtual Open House
One of four virtual open houses to answer questions about the renovation plan and next steps in the process.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/04/15/raymondparkrenovationvirtualopenhouse2
Temporary Bluebikes Station Relocation
The Temporary Bluebikes Station Relocation Form allows City Departments (DPW) and private developers request a temporary relocation of a Bluebikes station due to construction or other activities that necessitate a temporary move of a station.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bikeshare/temporarybluebikesst...
Pedestrian Committee
The Cambridge Pedestrian Committee works to create a more comfortable, safe, and pleasant environment for walking in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/forthepublic/pedestriancomm
Increased funding for Cambridge Small Business Grants
Cambridge small businesses now qualify for more funding to help pay for exterior and interior improvements, equipment purchases, and marketing upgrades.
/CDD/News/2023/8/increasedfundingforcambridgesmallbusinessgrants
Draft One Year Action Plan
A Draft version of the FY2024 One Action Plan is available for review.
/CDD/News/2023/4/draftoneyearactionplan
Transportation Demand Management
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) encourage people to switch from driving alone to walking, biking, taking buses and trains, carpooling, and other sustainable transportation options. The City encourages TDM to help more people get around Cambridge without creating more traffic and greenhouse gas emissions. These and other goals are described in Envision Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/fordevelopers/tdm
Getting Involved
There are many ways to help create a more sustainable society. Cambridge residents, businesses, and institutions are already taking part in a host of efforts.
/CDD/climateandenergy/gettinginvolved
Bicycle Signals
Bicycle signals are basically traffic signals for bikes. They provide cyclists with their own signal phase, enabling them to more safely cross intersections.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycling/bicyclesignals
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
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
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
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...
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
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
New Bicycle Facilities Layer
CDD has published an updated version of the Bicycle Facilities GIS layer that includes more user-friendly descriptions of facility types, facility lengths, and when facilities were added.
/CDD/News/2024/11/newbicyclefacilitieslayer
Raymond Park Renovation Virtual Open House
One of four virtual open houses to answer questions about the renovation plan and next steps in the process.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/04/14/raymondparkrenovationvirtualopenhouse1
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
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
Bicycle Data
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/biketrends
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
EZRide Information Session
The Department of Transportation will host an information session about the EZRide Shuttle and its recently expanded schedule.
This event will include a short presentation on the EZRide, which is a shuttle bus service that is open to the public for free. The Shuttle goes from North Station through Kendall Square and MIT to Cambridgeport on weekdays. We will show the route and its recently expanded schedule, including the new weekend service.
For more event information: transportation@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-6012
For more EZRide information: charlesrivertma.org
/CDD/Calendar/2025/11/20/ezrideinformationsession
Farmers Markets
Did you know that you can find a farmers market operating almost every day of the week in Cambridge during the warm weather months? Use the Farmers Market map as resource for more information.
/CDD/parks/farmersmarkets
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
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
52 New Street Information Session
The marketing process for its 106-unit affordable development at 52 New Street in Cambridge has begun. Applications will be available beginning July 1 with a lottery to be held in September.
Upcoming Information Sessions:
Tuesday, July 8th: In-person at 6:00 p.m. at 430 Rindge Ave. Cambridge, MA. Click here to register.
Tuesday, July 22nd: Online at 1 p.m. Click here to register.
For more information about the application process, please email 52NewStreet@Wingatecompanies.com. For more information about this project, please visit https://justastart.org/52-new-street/.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/07/22/52newstreetinformationsession
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
52 New Street Information Session
The marketing process for its 106-unit affordable development at 52 New Street in Cambridge has begun. Applications will be available beginning July 1 with a lottery to be held in September.
Upcoming Information Sessions:
Tuesday, July 8th: In-person at 6:00 p.m. at 430 Rindge Ave. Cambridge, MA. Click here to register.
Tuesday, July 22nd: Online at 1 p.m. Click here to register.
For more information about the application process, please email 52NewStreet@Wingatecompanies.com. For more information about this project, please visit https://justastart.org/52-new-street/.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/07/08/52newstreetinformationsession
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
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
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
CDBG 2010 One Year Plan
One Year Action Plan describing anticipated CDBG activities and expenditures for the ensuing fiscal year.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/cdbg2010oneyearplan
CDBG 2012 One Year Plan with ESG Amendment
One Year Action Plan describing anticipated CDBG activities and expenditures for the ensuing fiscal year.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/cdbg2012oneyearplanwesg
CDBG 2011 One Year Plan
One Year Action Plan describing anticipated CDBG activities and expenditures for the ensuing fiscal year.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/cdbg2011oneyearplan
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
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
Marketing Underway for New Affordable Housing at 52 New Street Apartments
Just A Start (JAS) is beginning the marketing process for its 106-unit affordable development at 52 New Street in Cambridge. For more information about the application process, including the upcoming information sessions, please visit click on the flyer here or email 52NewStreet@Wingatecompanies.com.
/CDD/News/2025/4/marketingunderwayfornewaffordablehousingat52newstreetapartments
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
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
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
Our Parks, Our Plan Pop Up Event
One in a series of outdoor pop-up events to discuss your visions for the future of our parks and open spaces, as part of Our Parks, Our Plan, a citywide open space plan update.
/CDD/Calendar/2022/04/22/ourparks,ourplanpopupevent
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
Our Parks, Our Plan Pop Up Event
One in a series of outdoor pop-up events to discuss your visions for the future of our parks and open spaces, as part of Our Parks, Our Plan, a citywide open space plan update.
/CDD/Calendar/2022/04/21/ourparks,ourplanpopupevent
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Roseland Portfolio
In December 2024, the development team behind Frost Terrace Apartments, a 40-unit 100% affordable development completed in 2021, purchased six contiguous sites (20 Roseland Street, 22 Roseland Street, 28 Roseland Street, 1 Frost Street, 3 Frost Street, and 5 Frost Street) where they intend to create another affordable development. The approximately one-acre parcel is adjacent to Frost Terrace and will be called Frost Terrace II.
Located in the heart of Porter Square, surrounded by many amenities including restaurants, retail stores, and the Porter Square MBTA station, the combined parcels total 127,668 square feet and currently contain five multi-family buildings and one single family house.
The team plans to create this affordable housing under the provisions of the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO).
/CDD/Projects/Housing/roselandportfolio
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
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
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
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 - Cambridge Highlands
The Cambridge Highlands neighborhood, located on the northeastern edge of the city is comprised of a commercial and light industrial area as well as a more residential area at its western end, bordering Belmont. The Fresh Pond Reservation borders the neighborhood to the south.
/CDD/planud/neighplan/neighs/12
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
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
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
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...
6 - Mid-Cambridge
Mid-Cambridge is one of Cambridge's largest neighborhoods, stretching from Central Square in the east to Harvard Square in the west and north to Inman Square and the Cambridge/Somerville border. It is predominantly residential but also includes parts of the Harvard University campus, Cambridge and Youville Hospitals, and the Cambridge Rindge and Latin School.
/CDD/planud/neighplan/neighs/6
Sennott Park Renovation Project
This very actively used park lies along Broadway at the intersection with Norfolk Street and is right next to the Area IV Youth Center. The area features multi-purpose playing fields, a playground, water play and basketball courts. One edge of the park was improved in 2010 with a walking path, ornamental fencing, park furniture and landscaping.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/sennottpark
Emergency Preparedness Resources for Businesses
This page describes resources for small businesses to be better prepared during emergencies and other natural and man-made disasters.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/emergencypreparednessforbus...
Mid-Cambridge Action Plan
A project page for the Mid-Cambridge Action Plan. Part of the Neighborhood Planning Initiative.
/CDD/planud/NPI/midcambridgeactionplan
Neighborhood Nine Action Plan
A project page for the Neighborhood Nine Action Plan. Part of the Neighborhood Planning Initiative.
/CDD/planud/NPI/neighborhoodnineactionplan
Transportation Data
Journey to Work and related data about commuting and transportation patterns in Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/transportationdata
Wellington-Harrington Action Plan
A project page for the Wellington-Harrington Action Plan. Part of the Neighborhood Planning Initiative.
/CDD/planud/NPI/wellingtonharringtonactionplan
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
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
Resources
The Community Development Department provides information about climate and energy through electronic media.
/CDD/climateandenergy/resources
Federal Funding Plans and Reports
Information about plans and reports for federal grants management, including CDBG, HOME and ESG.
/CDD/federalgrants/plansandreports
Coworking and Incubator Spaces
This page is a listing of the co-working and incubator spaces located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/coworkingandinc...
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
Safety
Safety tips for Motorists and Bicyclists in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Safety
For Applicants
Information for people looking to apply for rental or ownership programs through CDD.
/CDD/housing/forapplicants
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
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
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
For Homebuyers
The City of Cambridge has many programs to assist potential homebuyers.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers
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...
New Development Log Available - 2023 Q2
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/2023/7/developmentlogavailable2023q2
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
Bike Parking Requests
Map of bike parking requests entered into SeeClickFix.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking/bikeparkingrequestsmap
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
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
Rules of the Road
Learn about the rules of the road in Massachusetts, whether you drive, bike, or walk.
/CDD/Transportation/rulesoftheroad
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...
Community Resources for Entrepreneurs
This page provides a listing of a variety of local and state community resources for entrepreneurs.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/communityresour...
Affordable Mortgage Products
Information about affordable mortgage products available qualified buyers.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/mortgageproducts
Planning Board Advisory Consultation
Information about projects subject to the Planning Board Advisory Consultation provisions of the zoning ordinance
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/pbadvisoryconsultation
For Homeowners
Information about programs and services for anyone owning a home in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forhomeowners
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
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
Palmer Street Improvements
Project to develop options for activating Palmer Street in Harvard Square
/CDD/Projects/Parks/palmerstreetactivation
Laws and Policies
State traffic laws related to pedestrians
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/lawsandpolicies
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
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
Transportation Map Gallery
Map gallery of transportation related maps for the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/mapgalleries/transportation
Car-Free With Kids
Learn how to get around Cambridge with kids on bike, transit, and on foot.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/carfreewithkids
Development Log
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks larger-scale residential and commercial development projects.
/CDD/developmentlog
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
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 - 2023 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/2023/11/developmentlogavailable2023q3
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
New Development Log Available - 2024 Q1
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks large-scale residential, commercial and institutional development projects currently in the permitting or construction phases in the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2024/5/newdevelopmentlogavailable2024q1
New Development Log Available - 2023 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/2024/3/newdevelopmentlogavailable2023fourthquarter
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
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
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
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
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
Strategies and Policies
Transportation policy and planning in Cambridge emphasizes sustainable modes of transportation such as walking, biking and using transit and low emission vehicles.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/stratagiesandpolicies
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
PTDM
Information about the Parking and Transportation Demand Management Ordinance, how it is triggered and what compliance entails.
/CDD/Transportation/fordevelopers/ptdm
Triangle Park
The City completed construction of Triangle Park, located at 200 First Street in East Cambridge, in 2023.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/trianglepark
HomeBridge
Housing program to provide financial assistance to homebuyers
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/HomeBridge
Top 25 Employers
Learn about the top 25 employers in Cambridge and find links to career web sites.
/CDD/factsandmaps/economicdata/top25employers
Population and Census Data
Demographic information from the US Census Bureau is available at three geographic levels: Citywide Demographics, Neighborhood Demographics, which provide information about the 13 neighborhoods of Cambridge, and Census Tract Demographics.
/CDD/factsandmaps/populationdata
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
Kendall Square
Information about the Kendall Square Commercial District
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/kendallsq
Pathmark Lottery
First-time homebuyer lottery opportunity for units at The Pathmark
/CDD/Projects/Housing/homeownershiplottery/pathmarklottery
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...
Legacy Business Program
This page provides information on the City of Cambridge's Legacy Business Program
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/legac...
Urban Design
What is urban design? This term means different things to different people.
/CDD/planud/urbandesignprimer
Life Sciences and Technology Resources
This page provides resources for Cambridge companies in the life science and technology fields.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/lifescitechreso...
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...
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
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
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
115-117 Rindge Avenue
Heading Home, Inc., purchased a single-family home at 115-117 Rindge Avenue and converted it to 14 supportive SRO units for disabled, formerly homeless women.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/115117rindgeavenue
Directions
Directions to Community Development Department offices
/CDD/Directions
Elevator Projects
Learn about MBTA elevator projects in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit/elevatorprojects
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
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
Specialized Stretch Energy Code
Cambridge adopted the Specialized Stretch Energy Code in January 2023, which requires builders, for both new construction and major renovations, to meet high performance standards, prepare buildings for all-electric heating and hot water systems, and make parking facilities ready for electric vehicle charging equipment.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/stretchcode
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
Housing Study Findings Presentation
What are Cambridge residents’ experiences of social inclusion and bias in inclusionary housing?
/CDD/News/2022/12/housingstudyfindingspresentation
Pedestrian Safety
Designing intersections for pedestrian safety is a priority whenever roads are reconstructed.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/pedestriansafety
Zoning Maps
City of Cambridge zoning and land use maps
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Maps
Persons with Disabilities
Getting around Cambridge for persons with disabilities, on foot or by transit or taxi.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/personswithdisabilities
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
1055 Cambridge Street Lottery
First-time homebuyer lottery opportunity for units located at 1055 Cambridge Street
/CDD/Projects/Housing/homeownershiplottery/1055cambridgestreetlottery
Eligibility Guidelines
Eligibility Guidelines for CDBG funded Workshops.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/eligi...
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!
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
Development Review
Information about development review meetings
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview
Regional Pathways
Regional pathways -- i.e., off-road separated paths that serve cyclists, walkers, joggers, skaters, etc. -- are important faciities in Cambridge and the greater Boston region.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/regionalpathways
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
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
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
Storefront Improvement Program
Storefront Improvement Program provides technical and financial assistance to property owners or tenants seeking to renovate or restore commercial building exterior facades.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/store...
Shared Lane Markings
The purpose of the markings is to create improved conditions for bicycling, by clarifying where cyclists are expected to ride and to notify motorists to expect cyclists on the road.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycling/sharedlanemarkings
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
Brattle Street Two-way Separated Bike Lane
The City used Participatory Budgeting funds to install a two-way separated bicycle facility on Brattle Street in July 2017, informed by historic analyses and discussions, and aligned with the Vision Zero and Complete Streets Policies and additional City policies (Climate Action Plan, Growth Policy, Vehicle Trip Reduction Ordinance, School Wellness Policy, and others).
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/brattlestreettwowayseparatedbikelane
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
Ebikes
Information on ebikes
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/ebikes
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
Pedestrian Plan
Reviews elements of the Cambridge Pedestrian Plan
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms/pedestrianplan
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
Neighborhood Map Gallery
Gallery of maps of each of the City's 13 neighborhoods.
/CDD/factsandmaps/mapgalleries/neighborhood
Bus Priority
bus priority projects
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit/buspriority
Porter Square
Porter Square Redesign Project included reconfiguration of the main intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Somerville Avenue, reconstruction of the sidewalks, upgrading of lighting and the addition of new pedestrian crossings and bicycle facilities.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/portersquare
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
Citywide Demographics
Docmuents with demographic data covering the entire City of Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/populationdata/citywidedemographics
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
Traffic Calming Request Form
Form to request construction of traffic calming measures at a specific location.
/CDD/Forms/Forms/T/trafficcalmingform
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
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
Bike Regulations
The Web version of the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts Traffic Regulations is provided for reference and the convenience of having the Ordinance in a computer-readable format.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/rulesoftheroad/bikeregulations
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
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...
Zoning Amendments
Proposed Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance currently or previously under consideration, including proposed text and schedule for action.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments
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
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
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
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
STAR Plans and Policies
Partial listing of existing city plans and polices referenced by STAR Communities.
/CDD/starcommunities/starplansandpolicies
Older Bicycle Facility Projects
Older Bicycle Facility Projects
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/newbikeprojects/olderbikeproje...
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
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
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
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
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
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
Evaluations and Studies
Evaluations and Studies are conducted by the City of Cambridge on many projects.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/evaluationsandstudies
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
Downloads: Transit
With six subway stations and 31 MBTA bus lines in Cambridge, plus numerous private shuttles, you can go everywhere on transit. Using these resources will make it easy to plan your trip!
/CDD/Transportation/CitySmart/citysmartbytransit
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
Homebuyer Education
The City of Cambridge offers homebuyer education and counseling for all.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/education
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
Report a Street Problem
How to report problems getting around Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/reportingproblems
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
Map & Listing
Links to a listing of Cambridge biotech, high tech and green companies as well as a map showing their approximate location within the city. Please note that these are not complete sources.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/maplisting
Sign Certification
Signs are regulated as outlined in Article 7.000 of the Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Signs
Recent Data Updates
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/2023/4/dataupdates
Planning Board Cases Map
This map shows location of completed and active special permit and advisory consultation.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/specialpermits/planningboardcasesmap
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
Sustainable Development
Cambridge has adopted policies to encourage and require energy efficient and sustainable buildings as a strategy to achieve Cambridge’s goal to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment
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
Active Transportation Report
A monthly e-newsletter providing information about upcoming meetings, events, news, and actions related to walking, bicycling, and an active lifestyle, as well as items of general interest for transportation in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/bicyclereport
Current Programs
There are programs which we undertake such as creating charging stations for electric cars, doing bike promotions and education, crating a pedestrian plan and working to place bus shelters at busy stops.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms
Regional Roads and Air Travel
Given its central location in the urban core, Cambridge is near many regional roads, bridges, transit lines and the regional hub of air travel at Logan Airport. Consequently, the City participates in transportation planning and projects related to many of these facilties.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/regionalroads
Solar Assistance Program Information Session
This new City program provides no-cost support to Cambridge businesses, non-profits, and owners of commercial and large residential buildings that are interested in installing solar on their roof.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/06/solarassistanceprograminformationsession
Lower Massachusetts Avenue
Information about the Lower Massachusetts Ave commercial district in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/lowermassachusettsave
Parks and Playgrounds FAQ
A list of frequently asked questions related to City parks and playgrounds
/CDD/parks/parksplaygroundsfaq
Downloads: Car
For those times when you need to drive, think about carpooling and carsharing. And always keep an eye out for walkers and cyclists.
/CDD/Transportation/CitySmart/citysmartbycar
Downloads: Walk
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/CitySmart/citysmartbyfoot
Fresh Pond and Alewife Map
Geographic map of the Fresh Pond and Alewife Commercial District.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/Alewife/freshpondandalewifemap
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
Advisory Committees
Advisory Committees are appointed by the City Manager to assist with the review of development proposals.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/advcomms
For Developers
The City actively works with developers to ensure that Traffic Demand Management incentives are in place.
/CDD/Transportation/fordevelopers
3 - Wellington Harrington
Wellington-Harrington is a predominantly residential neighborhood located between East Cambridge and Inman Square, along the Cambridge/Somerville border. It is geographically small but populated with many three-story homes set close together.
/CDD/planud/neighplan/neighs/3
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
Business Associations
Listing of Cambridge business associations.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/businessassociations
Walking Maps
Maps for each Cambridge Public School with recommended walking routes to school.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/saferoutestoschool/saferouteswalkingmaps
Parking
Residents may park in resident permit parking areas with a resident parking permit issued by the Traffic Department. Visitors may park in the resident parking permit area of the person they are visiting with a visitor's permit.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bycar/Parking
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
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
Web Maps
List of easy to navigate interactive maps available elsewhere on the Cambridge website
/CDD/factsandmaps/mapgalleries/webmaps
2013 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2013.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2013pb
Mapping Tools
There are a number of free tools available on the web that anyone can use to look at information geographically.
/CDD/factsandmaps/mappingtools
Credit 101 Workshop
Workshop on understanding and improving credit
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/workshoponmanagingfinances
Bike Light Installation Night
As the days are getting shorter, make sure you're staying visible on the road with bike lights! This winter, Cambridge City staff and volunteers will be handing out free bike lights at different points throughout the city.
/CDD/Calendar/2019/12/16/bikelightinstallationnight
Concord Alewife
The vision for the Concord Alewife area is to encourage a mix of uses that over time will enliven the area, create an identity and sense of place, and take advantage of the area’s proximity to transit and to open space resources.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/concordalewife
Life Sciences Corridor
This page describes information about the Cambridge, Boston, Somerville, and Quincy life sciences corridor
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/lifesciencecorr...
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
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
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...
Traffic Signals
The City's traffic signals are timed with pedestrians in mind.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/Walking/trafficsignals
Sidewalk Materials
Cambridge’s sidewalks are constructed of a mix of materials, primarily either concrete or brick.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/Walking/sidewalkmaterials
Lead Paint Safety
Information about lead paint, what it is, why it poses a hazard, the Massachusetts Lead Law and where to find information and assistance.
/CDD/housing/resourcesandadditionalinformation/leadpaintsafety
Wayfinding
Signs have been installed to help people bike between the Minuteman Bikeway/Alewife and the Charles River Bike Paths/Harvard Square.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Wayfinding
Workforce Data Sets
Downloaded ES-202 unemployment insurance workforce data sets for Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/economicdata/workforcedatasets
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
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
PTDM Small Project Plan Form
Form used for facilities subject to PTDM with 5 to 19 total parking spaces.
/CDD/Forms/Forms/P/ptdmsmallprojectplan
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
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
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
By Bike
The latest information and resources for bikes in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge
Bicycle Committee Meeting
Bicycle Committee Meeting on January 15th at City Hall Annex.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/01/15/bicyclecommitteemeeting
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
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
During Construction
Bicycle Accommodation During Construction
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycling/duringconstruction
Economic Census
Business information collected by the Economic Census conducted every five years by the U. S. Census Bureau.
/CDD/factsandmaps/economicdata/economiccensus
Census Boundary Map Gallery
Gallery of maps of U.S. census tract boundaries for the City of Cambridge
/CDD/factsandmaps/mapgalleries/censusbounds
Getting Around Cambridge
Cambridge is committed to designing our city to help people to get around without driving, with an emphasis on pedestrian friendly intersections, bicycle lanes, traffic calming, and public transit.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge
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
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
Other Available Units
Affordable ownership and rental opportunities not administered by the Housing Division.
/CDD/housing/forapplicants/availableunits
Site Finder Assistance
This page describes the City of Cambridge's Site Finder Program. The Program allows companies looking for office, retail or lab space to request a search for space.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/Sitefinder
Bike Parking Map
Map of Cambridge bike parking locations.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking/bikeparkingmap
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
Planning Board Information
General information about the Cambridge Planning Board including membership and rules.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardinformation
2nd Cambridge Bicycle Network Plan Open House
At the Open House the draft Bike Network Plan will be shared, along with additional information about input made over the past couple of months.
/CDD/Calendar/2014/12/04/cambridgebicyclenetworkplanopenhouse
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
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
Bike FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Biking in Cambridge, Massachusetts
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bikefaq
Minority and Women Business Directory Questionnaire
Questionnaire and Survey to collect th information about Cambridge minority and/or women-owned businesses for inclusion in the Cambridge Minority & Women-Owned Business Directory.
/CDD/Forms/Forms/M/mwbdirectoryform
Harvard Square Kiosk and Plaza Public Meeting
Discussion of the Harvard Square Kiosk and Plaza Working Group's preliminary recommendations for programming, use, and operations for these spaces in the heart of Harvard Square.
/CDD/Calendar/2018/04/25/harvardsquarekioskandplazameeting
Housing FAQ Directory
A list of all FAQ pages available on the Housing website.
/CDD/housing/resourcesandadditionalinformation/housingfaqdirectory
Other Maps of Interest
Other maps of the City of Cambridge, including those for land use, permitting, Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS) area, tech companies, farmers markets, and institutional ownership.
/CDD/factsandmaps/mapgalleries/othermaps
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
Guides, Permitting & Business Resources
This page includes Step by Step business guides, lists city departments that have resources for businesses, and other resources.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/permittingresources
Downpayment Assistance
Downpayment Assistance for Cambridge Homebuyers
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/downpaymentassistance
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
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
Traffic Congestion, Demand Management, and Parking
In order to get the most out of our existing transportation system, the city uses Transportation Demand Management (TDM) strategies to change travel behavior.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/stratagiesandpolicies/trafficdemandmgmt
Mediation Services
Mediation Services is a professional mediation, dispute resolution and education service program based in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forrenters/mediationservices
Rental Applicant Pool
Description of the Rental Applicant Pool for applying for Inclusionary Rental units.
/CDD/housing/forapplicants/rentalapplicantpool
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
Facts and Maps
Access to a wide variety of information sources about Cambridge covering both statistics and maps.
/CDD/factsandmaps
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 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
35 Cherry Street Community Drop-In Hours
Swing by for updates on Just A Start's (JAS) affordable homeownership development located at 35 Cherry Street in the Port neighborhood of Cambridge. JAS and Davis Square Architects will be available to answer questions about the project.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/04/02/35cherrystreetcommunitydropinhours
Logan Noise Study
The City of Cambridge is a member of Logan Noise Study Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/logannoisestudy
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
Harvard Square Advisory Committee
The Harvard Square Advisory Committee reviews applications for variances and special permits within the Harvard Square Overlay District.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/advcomms/harvardadvcomm
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
Alewife
Information about the Alewife Commercial District. It includes market profile, business association and study documents about the area.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/Alewife
Other Permitting Resources
List of other Cambridge departments responsible for different types of development permitting.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Resources/otherpermittingresources
Designing for Pedestrians
The pedestrian realm includes sidewalks, open space, courtyards, and walkways--mostly public space, but private spaces as well.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/Walking
East Cambridge
Information about the East Cambridge Commercial District. It includes market profile, business association and study documents about the area.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/eastcamb
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
Other Housing Providers
Contact information for other housing providers in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/resourcesandadditionalinformation/otherproviders
Inman Square Map
Geographic map of the Inman Square Map.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/inmansq/inmansquaremap
Zoning Ordinance
City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance Text
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Ordinance
Inclusionary Housing Program for Developers
The Inclusionary Housing Program requires developers of certain projects to provide afforadable housing units.
/CDD/housing/fordevelopersandpropmanagers/inclusionarydevelopers
Lower Cambridgeport Map
An interactive map of Lower Cambridgeport's commercial district.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/centralsq/lowercambridgeportmap
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
Cambridge Announces Small Business E-Commerce Grant
Applications are now open for a new grant to help Cambridge businesses improve their web presence. Businesses can receive up to $4,000 in relief funds to improve their website, add services like online ordering or booking, and other eligible expenses.
/CDD/News/2023/1/cambridgeannouncessmallbusinessecommercegrant
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
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
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
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
Vacant Storefront Creative Design Contest
This page describes the City of Cambridge's Vacant Storefront Design Contest.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/vacantstorefrontresources/vacantstorefrontcreatived...
Disparity Study
This page provides information on Cambridge's 2023 Disparity Study focused on the procurement of goods and services.
/CDD/Projects/EconDev/cambridgedisparitystudy
Central Square Map
An interactive geographic map of the Central Square Commercial District
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/centralsq/centralsquaremap
Harvard Square Map
Interactive geographic map of Harvard Square commercial district.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/harvardsq/harvardsquaremap
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
Lechmere Canal Park Committee
The Lechmere Canal Park Committee is comprised of representative of the properties abutting the park and provides advice and counsel to the City of Cambridge regarding the managment of Lechmere Canal Park.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/advcomms/lechmerecanalpark
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
East Cambridge Map
An interactive geographic map of the East Cambridge Commercial District
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/eastcamb/eastcambridgemap
Bicycle Crash Information
This City of Cambridge has been analyzing crash data in depth.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicyclecrashinformation
June 2014 Open House Infographics
Infographics presented at the June, 12, 2014 Open House for the Cambridge Bicycle Network Plan.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicyclenetworkplan/openhousein...
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
Lower Mass Ave Map
An interactive map of the Lower Mass Ave commercial corridor in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/lowermassachusettsave/lowermassavema...
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
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
Waterplay Map
Shows locations of waterplay features at City-owned parks.
/CDD/parks/waterplaymap
Porter Square and North Mass Ave Map
Geographical map of the Porter Square and North Massachusetts Avenue Commercial District.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/portersq/portersquareandnorthmassave...
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
Climate Resilience Zoning
Discussion of zoning recommendations to address climate change impacts.
/CDD/Projects/Zoning/climateresiliencezoning
Contact Us
Contact the Community Development Department
/CDD/contactus
New East Cambridge Parks
Read design and construction updates related to Binney St. Park, Rogers St. Park, and Triangle Park.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/eastcambridgeparks
Inclusionary Housing
City of Cambridge’s Inclusionary Housing Program and Ordinance
/CDD/housing/inclusionaryhousing
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
3DNorth Point Map
A three dimensional (3D) geographic map of the North Point Commercial District
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/eastcamb/northpointmap
March First-Time Homebuyer Workshop
Pre-registration Required. The four-week workshop will cover a variety of topics including: an overview of the home buying process, credit & budgeting, obtaining a mortgage, legal issues, home inspections, and an introduction to Cambridge's financial assistance programs. Classes include a combination of presentations by Cambridge homebuyer cunselors, local real estate brokers, home inspectors and loan officers. Participants are expected to attend all four classes and class begins promptly at 6:00pm
/CDD/Calendar/2013/03/06/marchfirsttimehomebuyerworkshop
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
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
1826 and 1840 Massachusetts Avenue
Just A Start Corporation (JAS), a local non-profit affordable housing provider, purchased 1826 and 1840 Massachusetts Avenue, two surface parking lots, from Lesley University in late November 2024. Located in the Neighborhood Nine neighborhood, the site is in close proximity to the many amenities of Porter Square including restaurants, retail and the MBTA station.
JAS is planning to create new affordable housing at the sites under the provisions of the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO).
/CDD/Projects/Housing/18261840massachusettsavenue
71 Cherry Street
The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA), in partnership with the Margaret Fuller Neighborhood House (MFNH), plans to develop a portion of the MFNH lot, located at 71 Cherry Street, into new affordable homeownership units. This development will happen in conjunction with the revitalization of the MFNH. The CRA plans on creating these new housing units under the provisions of the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO).
/CDD/Projects/Housing/71cherrystreet
Site Finder Database Form
Used to add a commercial real estate listing to the Site Finder database.
/CDD/Forms/Forms/S/sitefinderdatabaseform
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
Off Leash Dogs in Cambridge Parks
In recent years there has been increased interest expressed by the public in providing legal opportunities for dogs to be off leash in certain city parks and public open spaces.
/CDD/parks/osplanning/offleash
Other Data Sources
Other data sources for statistical analysis and research.
/CDD/factsandmaps/othercitydatasources
Contact Us
Staff Contacts for Zoning and Development
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/contactus
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Learn about how the city of Cambridge tracks greenhouse gas emissions.
/CDD/climateandenergy/greenhousegasemissions
Article 22 Green Building Requirements
Guidance for complying with green building requirements found in Article 22 of the zoning ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/article22greenbldgrequirements
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
Federal Grants
CDBG, HOME and ESG entitlement grants for affordable housing, community development and homeless services.
/CDD/federalgrants
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
2072 Mass Ave
New, 100% affordable rental housing near Porter Square.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/2072massave
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
Corcoran Park AHO Community Meeting
The CHA is starting the zoning and permitting process for the Modernization of Corcoran Park under the City’s new Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO). This process follows a series of resident meetings, door knocking at Corcoran Park and abutting properties, phone and text outreach to Corcoran Park residents, and August poster sessions open to the neighborhood. Please join the first virtual neighborhood meeting to learn about the project.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/02/13/corcoranparkahocommunitymeeting
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
Site Finder Request Form
Use to request a report from Site Finder about commercial property that meet your search criteria.
/CDD/Forms/Forms/S/sitefinderrequestform
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...
Climate Change and Air Quality
The Vehicle Trip Reduction Ordinance was enacted in 1992 in response to increasing concerns about the impact on air quality caused by driving.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/stratagiesandpolicies/climatechangeandairquality
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
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
Incentive Zoning Ordinance
The Incentive Zoning Ordinance requires contributions to the housing fund from developers of certain projects.
/CDD/housing/fordevelopersandpropmanagers/incentivezoning
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
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
North Point
This page gives a description of the North Point District of Cambridge.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/eastcamb/northpoint
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
Bike Parking Gallery
Bicycle parking throughout Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking/bikeparkinggallery
2014 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2014.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2014pb
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...
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...
Life Sciences and Technology
This page contains information on resources and information for life science and technology businesses in Cambridge.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses
Housing Preservation
Describes the City's work to preserve Expiring Use housing developments.
/CDD/housing/housingdevelopment/housingpreservation
Community Organizations
Community organizations with an interest in climate issues.
/CDD/climateandenergy/resources/Organizations
Comcast Rise Grant
Starting Thursday, May 1 through Saturday, May 31, eligible small businesses in the Boston area (including Cambridge) can apply for the Comcast RISE Program
/CDD/News/2025/5/comcastrisegrant
240 Broadway (Broadway Park)
Just A Start (JAS) is planning to create new affordable rental housing on an existing JAS-controlled site located at 243 Broadway in the Port neighborhood. Known as Broadway Park, the site is currently an existing parking lot and will be developed in conjunction with another new JAS project, 37 Brookline Street, as a scattered-site affordable rental housing project. The new housing at both Broadway Park and 37 Brookline Street will be built to Passive House standards, ensuring maximum energy efficiency.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/240broadwaybroadwaypark
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
Shop Cambridge this Holiday Season
This holiday season, the City is partnering with local businesses and business associations to encourage residents and visitors to shop local!
/CDD/News/2023/11/shopcambridgethisholidayseason
Limited Equity Cooperatives
Information about limited equity cooperatives, several of which are found in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/coops
Small Business Mentorship Program
The Cambridge Small Business Mentorship Program provides mentorship opportunities and other resources to business owners in Cambridge.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/mento...
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
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
Ames Street Land Disposition
The Cambridge City Council has approved the disposition of City-owned land on the eastern edge of Ames Street between Main Street and Broadway.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/amesstreetlanddisposition
New and Current Bicycle Projects
Information about new bicycle projects in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/newbikeprojects
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
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
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
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
16-18 Wendell Street
Purchased in July 2024, the Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) converted16-18 Wendell Street, a dormitory previously owned by Lesley University, into 22 units of permanent supportive housing (PSH) to serve individuals and couples exiting homelessness in Cambridge. The 16-18 Wendell project was awarded annual funding for services from the Commonwealth through the Massachusetts Shelter and Housing Alliance’s (MHSA) Home and Healthy for Good program. There are four full-time service staff on site. In excellent and in near turn-key condition when purchased, the property began lease-up in Fall 2024, following the completion of some minor renovations to create new office space at the property.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/1618wendellstreet
What is Affordable Housing
A definition of affordable housing in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/resourcesandadditionalinformation/whatisaffordablehousing
Storefront Improvement Program Form
Cambridge property owners or tenants can access technical and financial resources to renovate or restore commercial building exterior facades through the Storefront Improvement Program. The Program improves the physical appearance of independent businesses and enhances Cambridge's commercial districts.
/CDD/Forms/Forms/S/storefrontimprovementprogramform
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
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
CDD Climate Resilience Zoning
Information on Cambridge's recently-adopted zoning amendments related to climate resilience.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/climateresiliencezoning
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
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
Mount Auburn Street Corridor Study
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), in conjunction with Cambridge and Watertown, has been conducting a Mount Auburn Corridor Planning Study to develop a range of implementable short- and long-term plans for the improvement of Mount Auburn Street, from the Watertown line to Fresh Pond Parkway, and parts of Fresh Pond Parkway.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/mountauburnstreetcorridorstudy
78-80 Porter Road
In 2009, the Cambridge Housing authority (CHA) through its Cambridge Affordable Housing Corporation (CAHC) purchased a 26-unit rental property in Porter Square, also known as 78-80 Porter Road, with the financial assistance from the Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust. Additional financing was used to significantly renovate the property and convert the mostly market-rate housing units into affordable housing rented out to income-eligible residents. In the process of updating and replacing old systems, the CHA was able to maintain and restore historically significant elements of the building.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/7880porterroad
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
Education Data
Data related to Cambridge Public Schools and post-secondary institutions.
/CDD/factsandmaps/educationdata
Neighborhood Demographics
Docmuents with demographic data covering the thirteen neighborhoods of Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/populationdata/neighborhoodemographics
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
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
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
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
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...
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
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
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
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
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
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
For Renters of Inclusionary Units
Information for tenants in units created through the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance who received their unit through application to the City of Cambridge Housing Division.
/CDD/housing/forrenters/forrentersofcityinclusionaryunits
Town Gown Archive
Copies of older Town Gown reports.
/CDD/planud/institutionalplanning/towngownarchive
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
Zoning
The Cambridge Zoning Ordinance is the municipal regulatory framework that controls urban development in the city.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning
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!
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/12/16/planningboard20251216
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
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
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
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
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...
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
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
Reports & Presentations
Statistical profiles, reports, and presentations contained here summarize a variety of information about Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/reportsandpublications
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
Windsor Street Condominiums
Just A Start Corporation, in partnership with the City, redeveloped the former church and rectory at 424-430 Windsor Street into 14 units of affordable ownership housing.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/424430windsorstreet
9 - Neighborhood Nine
Neighborhood Nine is a moderate-density residential neighborhood with around twelve thousand residents, ranging from Harvard Square to Porter Square in the east and bordered by Concord Avenue the commuter rail tracks.
/CDD/planud/neighplan/neighs/9
Elm Place
Just A Start's 19 unit affordable rental development at 1066 Cambridge Street, known as Elm Place.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/elmplace
Temple Place Apartments
Temple Place Apartments, developed at the former location of the YWCA pool building, near Central Square, contains 40 units of affordable rental housing.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/templeplaceapartments
Public Advisory Consultation
Information about projects subject to the Public Advisory Consultation provisions of the zoning ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/publicadvisoryconsultation
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
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
2009 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2009
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2009pb
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
2023 Neighborhood Action Plans - Idea Maps
We're starting Neighborhood Action Plans for Mid-Cambridge, Neighborhood Nine, and Wellington-Harrington and we need your help!
/CDD/News/2023/4/neighborhoodactionplansideamaps
Cambridge Court
Preservation and renovation of existing affordable housing at Cambridge Court Apartments at 411 Franklin Street.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/cambridgecourt
Alberico Park
Proposed improvements to Alberico Park
/CDD/Projects/Parks/albericopark
Cambridge Entrepreneurship Assistance Application Form
This page provides a link to the Cambridge Entrepreneurship Assistance Program Application Form. The Program is a 4 month financial education program for entrepreneurs in emerging technologies.
/CDD/Forms/Forms/E/cambridgeentrepreneurshipassistanceapplicationform
Planning Board Meeting
City of Cambridge Planning Board Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2024/11/26/planningboard20241126
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
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
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...
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
Accessibility
Accessibility is built into all pedestrian projects.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/Walking/Accessability
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
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
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
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
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
821-825 Main Street
Just A Start Corporation, with support from the City, developed ten affordable condominiums on the site of the former Nightstage.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/821825mainstreet
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
Cambridge Announces Small Business Operations Grant
Applications are open for a new grant for Cambridge small businesses in need of help with operation costs, including but not limited to rent relief, payroll, or other operating expenses. Brick and mortar businesses can receive up to $15,000 and Home-based businesses can receive up to $7,500.
/CDD/News/2024/1/cambridgeannouncessmallbusinessoperationsgrant
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
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
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
Residential Neighbor Notification
Information related to community engagement activities undertaken by developers for a building permit application
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/residentialneighbornotification
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
4 Mellen St / 1627 Mass Ave
Renovation and new construction of affordable housing proposed under the 100% Affordable Housing Overlay
/CDD/Projects/Housing/1627massave
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
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
Columbia Court
Just A Start purchased an existing commercial building and two multi-family homes for redevelopment into thirteen affordable homeownership units.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/columbiacourt
Homeowner Education
The City of Cambridge in collaboration with Mass Affordable Housing Alliance (MAHA) offers a course for New Condominium Owners twice a year in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forhomeowners/education
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
Putnam Green
Putnam Green development 40 units of affordable rental housing at 625 Putnam Avenue completed in 2012.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/putnamgreen
95-97 Pine Street
Homeowners Rehab Inc rehabilitated 12 existing rental units at 95-97 Pine Street.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/9597pinestreet
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
2010 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2010
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2010pb
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
PARKing Day
PARK(ing) Day is an annual worldwide event where artists, designers and citizens transform metered parking spots into temporary public parks.
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/parkingday
Privately Owned Public Spaces
Listing and maps of privately owned public spaces required under the provision of special permits isused by the Cambridge Planning Board.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/specialpermits/specialpermitpublicopenspace
2012 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2012
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2012pb
Cambridge Bicycle Plan
Project webpage for the Cambridge Bicycle Plan, the City's bicycle master plan.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicyclenetworkplan
Coolidge Place Land Disposition
Cambridge is undertaking a process to consider disposition of public land on Coolidge Place, in Central Square near Massachusetts Avenue and Douglass Street.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/coolidgepllanddisposition
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
Volpe Site Rezoning and Working Group
Information and updates on the rezoning and redevelopment process for the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center site.
/CDD/Projects/Zoning/pudksvolpesite
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
Remote Planning Board Meetings
Information about Cambridge Planning Board Meetings held remotely using Zoom Webinar platform.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/remoteplanningboardmeetings
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
2011 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2011
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2011pb
CharlieCards
Where to get a CharlieCard in Cambridge
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bytransit/CharlieCards
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
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
Cambridge Riverfront Plan
The Cambridge Riverfront Plan suggests ways to improve connections from the neighborhoods to the Charles River
/CDD/Projects/Planning/Riverfront
2016 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2016.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2016pb
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
Letters of Commitment
Some sections of the Zoning Ordinance refer to Letters of Commitment describing agreements between the City of Cambridge and a property owner or developer related to a particular zoning change.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/commitmentletters
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
Retail Interior Accessibility Program
This page describes the City of Cambridge' retail interior accessibility grant program.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/retai...
Article 22 Green Roofs Requirement
Guidance for complying with green building roofs requirement found in Article 22 of the zoning ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/article22greenroofsrequirement
Business Development Workshops
This page describes the variety of business development workshops that the City of Cambridge offers.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/Workshops
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
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
Cambridge Launches Grant Pilot for Nightlife and Entertainment Businesses
Apply to the Cambridge Nightlife Industry and Thriving Entertainment Spaces (NITES) Grant! The Cambridge NITES grant is aimed at supporting the nightlife and entertainment industry in Cambridge by providing up to $5,000 awards for outdoor, nighttime events during the month of June.
/CDD/News/2025/3/nitesgrant
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
Older Agendas and Minutes
Agendas and minutes of the bicycle committee prior to current year.
/CDD/Transportation/forthepublic/bicyclecomm/bikeolderagendasandminutes
2006 - 2008 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas and Hearing Notices from July 2006 through December 2008
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/20068pb
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
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
Adopted Zoning Amendments
Listing of adopted amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments/adoptedzoningamendments
Older Agendas and Minutes
Agendas and minutes of the Pedestrian Committee prior to current year.
/CDD/Transportation/forthepublic/pedestriancomm/pedolderagendasandminutes
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...
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
Central Square Advisory Committee
The Central Square Advisory Committee is appointed by the City Manager to undertake all large project reviews, receive all applications for variances and special permits for activities within the Central Square Overlay District, and monitor the progress of the Central Square non-zoning recommendations of the K2C2 Study.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/advcomms/centraladvcomm
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
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
Planning Board Meetings
Meeting Agendas, Hearing Notices and Transcripts for the Cambridge Planning Board.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings
2015 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2015.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2015pb
2017 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2017.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2017pb
2024 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2024.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2024pb
2019 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2019.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2019pb
2018 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2018.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2018pb
2020 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2020.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2020pb
2023 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2023.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2023pb
2021 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2021.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2021pb
2022 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2022.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2022pb