Search
To search the entire City of Cambridge Web site go to the
main Search page for the City web site.
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...
Draft One Year Action Plan
A Draft version of the FY2024 One Action Plan is available for review.
/CDD/News/2023/4/draftoneyearactionplan
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Cambridge Riverfront Plan Reconnecting People to the Water
This 2011 plan seeks to create a vision for how the Charles River may become an even more valuable resource than it already is, one that is more easily useable for everyone and provides a richer and more inviting experience.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/riverfrontplan2011
Social Media Strategy Workshop Series
The Social Media Strategy Workshops Series are three workshops designed to be taken together as each one builds upon the next workshop. In this three-session workshop series, you'll be building your own social media strategy from the ground up, including making your own graphics with Canva, researching effective hashtags for your business, and reviewing how to post on different social media platforms. At the end of this workshop series, you'll leave with a social media plan that you can start using immediately!
/CDD/News/2023/2/socialmediastrategyworkshopseries
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...
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
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
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
Federal Funding Plans and Reports
Information about plans and reports for federal grants management, including CDBG, HOME and ESG.
/CDD/federalgrants/plansandreports
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
Coworking and Incubator Spaces
This page is a listing of the co-working and incubator spaces located in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/coworkingandinc...
Resources
The Community Development Department provides information about climate and energy through electronic media.
/CDD/climateandenergy/resources
For Applicants
Information for people looking to apply for rental or ownership programs through CDD.
/CDD/housing/forapplicants
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...
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
Community Resources for Entrepreneurs
This page provides a listing of a variety of local and state community resources for entrepreneurs.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/communityresour...
Contact Us
Contact the Community Development Department
/CDD/contactus
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...
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
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
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
Life Sciences and Technology
This page contains information on resources and information for life science and technology businesses in Cambridge.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses
Directions
Directions to Community Development Department offices
/CDD/Directions
Elevator Projects
Learn about MBTA elevator projects in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit/elevatorprojects
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
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
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
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
Legacy Business Program
This page provides information on the City of Cambridge's Legacy Business Program
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/legac...
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
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
Bike Parking Requests
Map of bike parking requests entered into SeeClickFix.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking/bikeparkingrequestsmap
For Homebuyers
The City of Cambridge has many programs to assist potential homebuyers.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers
Facts and Maps
Access to a wide variety of information sources about Cambridge covering both statistics and maps.
/CDD/factsandmaps
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
Triangle Park
The City completed construction of Triangle Park, located at 200 First Street in East Cambridge, in 2023.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/trianglepark
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
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
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
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
Pathmark Lottery
First-time homebuyer lottery opportunity for units at The Pathmark
/CDD/Projects/Housing/homeownershiplottery/pathmarklottery
Affordable Mortgage Products
Information about affordable mortgage products available qualified buyers.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/mortgageproducts
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
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...
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
Laws and Policies
State traffic laws related to pedestrians
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/lawsandpolicies
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
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
Housing Study Findings Presentation
What are Cambridge residents’ experiences of social inclusion and bias in inclusionary housing?
/CDD/News/2022/12/housingstudyfindingspresentation
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
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
Wellington-Harrington Action Plan
A project page for the Wellington-Harrington Action Plan. Part of the Neighborhood Planning Initiative.
/CDD/planud/NPI/wellingtonharringtonactionplan
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
HomeBridge
Housing program to provide financial assistance to homebuyers
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/HomeBridge
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
Urban Design
What is urban design? This term means different things to different people.
/CDD/planud/urbandesignprimer
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
2013 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2013.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2013pb
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
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
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
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
Bicycle Parking
Find out more about parking your bicycle in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking
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
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
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
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
Western Avenue
Learn more about the Western Avenue Reconstruction Project.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/westernavenue
Ebikes
Information on ebikes
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/ebikes
Development Review
Information about development review meetings
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview
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
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...
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
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
For Homeowners
Information about programs and services for anyone owning a home in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forhomeowners
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...
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
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
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
1055 Cambridge Street Lottery
First-time homebuyer lottery opportunity for units located at 1055 Cambridge Street
/CDD/Projects/Housing/homeownershiplottery/1055cambridgestreetlottery
Development Log
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks larger-scale residential and commercial development projects.
/CDD/developmentlog
Top 25 Employers
Learn about the top 25 employers in Cambridge and find links to career web sites.
/CDD/factsandmaps/economicdata/top25employers
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Womens Business Month
The City of Cambridge will celebrate National Women's Business Month during October to recognize the importance of women-owned businesses and highlight the women entrepreneurs who contribute so much to the local Cambridge economy.
/CDD/News/2024/9/womensbusinessmonth
Zoning Amendments
Proposed Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance currently or previously under consideration, including proposed text and schedule for action.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments
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
Citywide Demographics
Docmuents with demographic data covering the entire City of Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/populationdata/citywidedemographics
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
Zoning Maps
City of Cambridge zoning and land use maps
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Maps
Evaluations and Studies
Evaluations and Studies are conducted by the City of Cambridge on many projects.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/evaluationsandstudies
Transportation Map Gallery
Map gallery of transportation related maps for the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/mapgalleries/transportation
Planning Board Advisory Consultation
Information about projects subject to the Planning Board Advisory Consultation provisions of the zoning ordinance
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/developmentreview/pbadvisoryconsultation
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
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
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
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
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
Homebuyer Education
The City of Cambridge offers homebuyer education and counseling for all.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/education
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...
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...
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
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
Older Bicycle Facility Projects
Older Bicycle Facility Projects
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/newbikeprojects/olderbikeproje...
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
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...
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
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...
Rental Applicant Pool
Description of the Rental Applicant Pool for applying for Inclusionary Rental units.
/CDD/housing/forapplicants/rentalapplicantpool
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
Vacant Storefront Creative Design Contest
This page describes the City of Cambridge's Vacant Storefront Design Contest.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/vacantstorefrontresources/vacantstorefrontcreatived...
Belmont - Cambridge - Somerville Path
Learn more about MassDOT's community path project that connects Belmont, Cambridge, and Somerville.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/belmontcambridgesomervillepath
Other Housing Providers
Contact information for other housing providers in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/resourcesandadditionalinformation/otherproviders
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
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
Bicycle Workshops
The City of Cambridge offers free bicycle training workshops throughout the year for people who work or live in Cambridge. Updated often!
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycleworkshops
Bicycle 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
2016 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2016.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2016pb
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
Article 22 Green Building Requirements
Guidance for complying with green building requirements found in Article 22 of the zoning ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/article22greenbldgrequirements
Transportation Data
Journey to Work and related data about commuting and transportation patterns in Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/transportationdata
Rules of the Road
Learn about the rules of the road in Massachusetts, whether you drive, bike, or walk.
/CDD/Transportation/rulesoftheroad
Pedestrian Plan
Reviews elements of the Cambridge Pedestrian Plan
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms/pedestrianplan
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
Logan Noise Study
The City of Cambridge is a member of Logan Noise Study Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/logannoisestudy
Adopted Zoning Amendments
Listing of adopted amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments/adoptedzoningamendments