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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
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: 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
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
Final Cambridge Street Meeting
Join the planning team for the final public meeting of the Our Cambridge Street process and provide feedback.
/CDD/News/2022/12/finalcambridgest,-d-,planningmeetingondec,-d-,15
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
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
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
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
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
Zoning FAQ
View our new Cambridge Zoning FAQ here to help you navigate the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Resources/zoningfaq
Fossil Fuel Free Demonstration Ordinance
The City of Cambridge is working to adopt an ordinance that will require new buildings and buildings undergoing a major renovation to eliminate the use of fossil fuels. Making buildings fossil fuel free means healthier homes and buildings and will help Cambridge reach our climate goals.
/CDD/News/2023/7/fossilfuelfreedemonstrationordinance
Housing Resource Fair
Join us for our Annual Housing Resource Fair and learn about housing services and your rights. City staff will provide informational materials and answer your questions about housing rights, affordable housing, financial assistance, eviction resources, and first-time homebuyer programs.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/03/fairhousingresourcefair
Celebrate Summer with Cambridge Plays
Cambridge Plays is a series of outdoor entertainment events sponsored by the City of Cambridge and our community partners. Come out and enjoy music and arts across the city throughout the summer! Whether you’re up for music, juggling, or yoga in the park, Cambridge Plays has something for everyone.
/CDD/News/2023/6/celebratesummerwithcambridgeplays
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
Steps to Starting a Business Workshop Series Kicks off 2026 for Entrepreneurs
Ready to launch or grow your business? Join our 4-week workshop series designed for both new and experienced entrepreneurs.
/CDD/News/2025/12/stepstostartingabusinessworkshopserieskicksof2026forentrepreneurs
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
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
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
Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group Meeting
Working group meeting notice for Mass Ave Planning Study. We will be discussing the basics of zoning, and our approach to community planning for Porter Square.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/10/30/massaveplanningstudyworkinggroupmeeting
Central Square City Lots Study - Virtual Public Meeting October 25
This will be a virtual public meeting to share information about the project; review the sites that we are planning for; and receive community input and ideas on future uses for these properties. We will cover similar content to our prior in-person meeting, but in an online friendly format. Central Square City Lots Study: The City of Cambridge Community Development Department (CDD), in collaboration with other city departments and the Cambridge community, is leading a municipal property needs assessment and planning study for city-owned properties in Central Square.
/CDD/News/2023/10/centralsquarecitylotsstudyvirtualpublicmeeting
Central Square Rezoning - Community Meeting 3
Please join the Central Square Rezoning Project team for our final community meeting regarding potential updates to the zoning for Central Square. This meeting will begin with a presentation by City staff focusing on what we've heard thus far and how that has informed the preliminary zoning recommendations. It will be followed by a robust public discussion where community members can share their feedback and input.
/CDD/News/2024/9/centralsquarerezoningcommunitymeeting3
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
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
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
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
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
Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group Meeting - Intro to Zoning and a Focus on Porter Square
The planning team will introduce the concept of zoning and how changes to the current Mass Ave zoning could impact the corridor. The team will also discuss an approach to our upcoming engagement with the community on the future of Porter Square.
/CDD/News/2024/10/massaveplanningstudyworkinggroupmeeting1
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
Join us for a Family-Friendly Solar Festival
Join us September 24 for a family-friendly celebration of a new solar project!
/CDD/News/2022/8/solarfestival
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
Mass Ave Planning Study Community Meeting: A Focus on North Mass Ave
Community meeting notice for Mass Ave Planning Study - A focus on North Mass Ave. This is the first meeting for this study area. We will be presenting initial observations and developing a vision and goals for this area.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/09/26/massaveplanningstudynorthmassavecommunitymeeting
Mass Ave Planning Study Community Meeting: A Focus on North Mass Ave
Community meeting notice for Mass Ave Planning Study - A Focus on North Mass Ave. This is the first meeting for this study area which includes Porter Square. We will be presenting initial observations and developing goals and a vision for this area.
/CDD/News/2024/8/massaveplanningstudynorthmassavecommunitymeeting
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
Life Sciences and Technology
This page contains information on resources and information for life science and technology businesses in Cambridge.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses
Type of Business
This page is to help answer "how to find available start up assitance"
/CDD/otherpages/startuptypes/typeofbusiness
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
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
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
Life Sciences and Technology Resources
This page provides resources for Cambridge companies in the life science and technology fields.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/lifesciencesandtechnologybusinesses/lifescitechreso...
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
Economic Opportunity and Development
This is the home page for the Economic Opportunity and Development Division. It provides information on the programs and services of the Economic Opportunity and Development Division in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment
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
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!
Mass Ave Planning Study Community Meeting - South of Porter Square Round 3
Community meeting notice for Mass Ave Planning Study - A focus on South of Porter Square. This is the third meeting for this study area. We will be presenting recommendations for the area.
/CDD/News/2024/7/massaveplanningstudycommunitymeetingsouthofportersquareround3
Mass Ave Planning Study - South of Porter Community Meeting 2
The next Community Meeting for MAPS will focus on the area South of Porter Square, and share a draft vision and potential ideas for the South of Porter Square planning area.
/CDD/News/2024/5/massaveplanningstudysouthofportercommunitymeeting
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
Parks and Playgrounds Interactive Map
Use the Parks and Playgrounds Interactive Map to find parks in your neighborhood and across the city.
/CDD/parks/parksmap
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
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...
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
Regional Transportation Planning
Cambridge participates in regional transportation planning efforts. Learn more about planning, funding, and projects.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning
Open Space Plan Update
City of Cambridge Open Space and Recreation Plan
/CDD/parks/osplanning/openspaceplan
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
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
About the Department
About the Cambridge Community Development Department
/CDD/aboutthedepartment
Historic Harvard Square Kiosk Set to Be Transformed Into Community Space and Information Center
The City of Cambridge has partnered with CultureHouse and the Cambridge Office for Tourism to bring the Cambridge Kiosk to life in an effort to reimagine the heart of Harvard Square; the Kiosk is expected to open in early 2025.
/CDD/News/2024/10/historicharvardsquarekiosksettobetransformedintocommunityspaceandinforma...
Waterplay Map
Shows locations of waterplay features at City-owned parks.
/CDD/parks/waterplaymap
Construction Starts on Greater Cambridge Energy Program, Including Only Underground Substation of its Kind in the U.S.
Eversource, City Officials and other representatives today broke ground on construction of the Greater Cambridge Energy Program (GCEP), a first-of-its-kind transmission initiative to address the increased electric demand in the region,
/CDD/News/2025/1/constructionstartsongreatercambridgeenergyprogram
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
EV Charging Community Meeting
EV Charging Community Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2025/06/10/evchargingcommunitymeeting
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
Cambridge Climate Action Leader Program
Climate Action Leaders is a climate change education and outreach program.
/CDD/climateandenergy/cambridgeclimateleaderprogram
Cambridge Street Code
Whether you walk, bike, drive, or use public transportation, you play an active role in the transportation system. In order for this system to function well, each person must follow the rules, pay attention, and be patient and courteous.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/cambridgestreetcode
City of Cambridge Announces Completion of its Disparity Study
Building on the City of Cambridge's commitment to reducing barriers and working with more diverse business owners, the City has completed its first ever Disparity Study focused on the procurement of goods and services.
/CDD/News/2023/12/cityofcambridgeannouncescompletionofitsdisparitystudy
City of Cambridge Operations To Go Green
Thanks to an innovative partnership among multiple local institutions and a new wind power project in North Dakota, all of the electricity used by Cambridge city buildings, schools and operations will be 100% carbon neutral starting in 2026.
/CDD/News/2024/11/cityofcambridgeoperationstogogreen
By Car
Learn more about getting around Cambridge by car.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bycar
Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group Meeting
A Working Group meeting where the working group members will discuss public feedback from the 9/26 community meeting, review the community-based goals, and establish the approach for future recommendations for North Mass Ave.
/CDD/News/2024/10/massaveplanningstudyworkinggroupmeeting
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
Zoning Newsletter
Read past issues of This Month in Zoning and sign up to receive the newsletter each month
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Resources/zoningnewsletter
City of Cambridge Signs Agreement with City of Boston to Increase Contracting Opportunities and Support For Diverse and Local Small Businesses
The agreement is intended to increase public contracting opportunities for minority-owned (MBEs), veteran-owned (VBEs), women-owned (WBEs), and other historically disadvantaged business enterprises.
/CDD/News/2024/10/cambridgesignsagreementwithbostontoincreasecontractingopportunitiesandsu...
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
Pedestrian Committee
The Cambridge Pedestrian Committee works to create a more comfortable, safe, and pleasant environment for walking in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/forthepublic/pedestriancomm
New and Current Bicycle Projects
Information about new bicycle projects in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/newbikeprojects
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
Share your ideas for paved court area at Gold Star Mothers Park
The City of Cambridge will be renovating the paved basketball court area at east Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2023/7/shareyourideasforpavedcourtareaatgoldstarmotherspark
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
Cambridge Kiosk Visitor Information Center and Community Gathering Space Reopens in Harvard Square
The historic kiosk in the center of Harvard Square will reopen as The Cambridge Kiosk and will serve as a community gathering space and visitor information center.
/CDD/News/2025/5/cambridgekioskwillopenmay30
Electrify Cambridge Information Session
Information session for the Electrify Cambridge program
/CDD/Calendar/2025/03/11/electrifycambridgeinformationsession
Electrify Cambridge Information Session
Information session for Electrify Cambridge
/CDD/Calendar/2025/03/12/electrifycambridgeinformationsession
Cambridge Clean Heating and Cooling - Community Workshop
Learn about Cambridge's newest initiative for clean heating and cooling, to help you save energy and money.
/CDD/Calendar/2019/10/03/cambridgecleanheatcommunityinfosession
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
Central Square Rezoning Community Meeting 1
Join us virtually on Thursday, May 30th from 6-7:30 pm for the first of three community meetings on updating the zoning for Central Square!
/CDD/News/2024/5/centralsquarerezoningcommunitymeeting1
Central Square 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
Low Carbon Energy Supply Strategy
A description of the low carbon energy supply strategy
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/lowcarbonenergysupplystrategy
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
Join us on Sunday, 10/8 !
This will be the first public meeting for the study of city-owned property in Central Square.
/CDD/News/2023/9/centralsquarecitylotsstudypublicmeeting1
Mass Ave Planning Study Community Meeting - Ideas for North Mass Ave
News item for a Mass Ave Planning Study Community Meeting about draft ideas for North Mass Ave between Porter Square and Alewife Brook Pkwy
/CDD/News/2024/10/massaveplanningstudycommunitymeetingideasfornorthmassave
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
Cambridge Extends Historic Renewable Energy Opportunity to Residents, Businesses
As a result of a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA), a new solar farm is being built in Illinois and Cambridge will receive credits for making new renewable energy available to the grid.
/CDD/News/2024/12/cambridgeextendshistoricrenewableenergyopportunitytoresidents,businesses
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...
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
Shop at Cambridge Small Businesses This Holiday Season
This holiday season, Cambridge partners with local businesses and business associations to encourage residents and visitors to shop local.
/CDD/News/2024/10/shopatcambridgesmallbusinessesthisholidayseason
Park Information
Information about selected parks and playgrounds
/CDD/parks/parksinfo
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
Sign Up for the Small Business Coaching Program
The Small Business Coaching Program offers eligible Cambridge business owners free, one-on-one coaching from industry experts.
/CDD/News/2023/3/signupforthesmallbusinesscoachingprogram
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
October is National Women's Business Month
The City of Cambridge will celebrate National Women’s Business Month during October to recognize the importance of women-owned businesses and highlight the women entrepreneurs who contribute so much to the local Cambridge economy.
/CDD/News/2023/9/octoberisnationalwomensbusinessmonth
Small Business Challenge Projects on Display
Learn more about how the 2017 participants invigorated their commercial districts.
/CDD/News/2017/7/smallbusinesschallengeprojectsondisplay
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
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
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
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
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
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
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...
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Learn about how the city of Cambridge tracks greenhouse gas emissions.
/CDD/climateandenergy/greenhousegasemissions
Cambridge Bicycle Plan
Project webpage for the Cambridge Bicycle Plan, the City's bicycle master plan.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicyclenetworkplan
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...
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
Community Planning Awards
Listing of Cambridge Community Development Department Planning Awards
/CDD/Awards
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
Attention Artists: Vacant Storefront Creative Design Contest Returns
Local artists are invited to submit their work to be featured in vacant storefronts in Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2023/2/attentionartistsvacantstorefrontcreativedesigncontest returns
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
Harvard Square Advisory Committee Meeting
A meeting of the Harvard Square Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/09/18/harvardsquareadvisorycommittee20240918
Cambridge Riverfront Plan
The Cambridge Riverfront Plan suggests ways to improve connections from the neighborhoods to the Charles River
/CDD/Projects/Planning/Riverfront
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
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...
City of Cambridge Awards $23,800 to Local Businesses through Cambridge NITES Grant Pilot
The program aims to highlight the success of Cambridge’s nightlife and entertainment industry.
/CDD/News/2025/5/cityofcambridgeawards$23,800tolocalbusinesses
City of Cambridge Announces $800,000 in Multifamily Decarbonization Subsidies Through Partnership with Massachusetts Clean Energy Center and BlocPower
Multifamily building owners in Cambridge, MA can now leverage support from $800,000 in new subsidies when they complete decarbonization projects.
/CDD/News/2023/9/cambridgeannounces$800,000inmultifamilydecarbonizationsubsidiesthroughpar...
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
Rules of the Road
Learn about the rules of the road in Massachusetts, whether you drive, bike, or walk.
/CDD/Transportation/rulesoftheroad
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
By Bike
The latest information and resources for bikes in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge
HubSpot Joins City of Cambridge’s Community Electricity Program; Becomes Largest Business To Participate in Program’s 100% Renewable Option
With its participation in The Cambridge Community Electricity Program, HubSpot becomes the largest user to date in the City’s 100% Green Plus fully renewable electricity option.
/CDD/News/2025/2/hubspotjoinscityofcambridge’scommunityelectricityprogram
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
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
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
Cambridge’s Resident Refurbished Bike Program Uses ARPA Funds to Provide Bicycles to Income-Qualified Residents
The Resident Refurbished Bike Program will provide refurbished bicycles to income-qualified Cambridge residents.
/CDD/News/2024/11/refurbishedbikeprogramusesarpafundstoprovidebicyclestoincomequalifiedres...
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
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
Municipal GHG Inventory
Greenhouse gas inventory for Cambridge's municipal operations. City of Cambridge Municipal GHG emissions from 2008 through 2012 were inventoried using The Climate Registry’s Local Government Operations Protocol (LGOP) and General Reporting Protocol (GRP).
/CDD/climateandenergy/municipalsustainability/municipalghginventory
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...
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
Acquisition of Roseland and Frost Properties Announced; To Be Designated for New Affordable Housing
The approximately one-acre parcel adjacent to Frost Terrace will be designated for new affordable housing.
/CDD/News/2024/12/acquisitionofroselandandfrostpropertiesannounced;tobedesignatedfornewaff...
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
Briston Arms - 247 Garden Street
Briston Arms Apartments - affordable rental units
/CDD/Projects/Housing/bristonarms247gardenst
Harvard Square Advisory Committee Meeting
A meeting of the Harvard Square Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/11/20/harvardsquareadvisorycommittee20241120
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
Vacant Storefront Initiative
This page describes a variety of resources for property owners who have vacant storefronts in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/vacantstorefrontresources
Older Bicycle Facility Projects
Older Bicycle Facility Projects
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/newbikeprojects/olderbikeproje...
Other Data Sources
Other data sources for statistical analysis and research.
/CDD/factsandmaps/othercitydatasources
Zoning Ordinance
City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance Text
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Ordinance
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...
Directions
Directions to Community Development Department offices
/CDD/Directions
Cambridge Community Electricity Program Offers New Fixed Prices and Renewable Energy Options for Residents and Businesses
The City of Cambridge today announced that the Cambridge Community Electricity (CCE) Program is entering a new two-year contract period with Direct Energy Services LLC (Direct Energy) resulting in new fixed electricity prices starting in January 2024. Residential and commercial account holders will also now have three electricity options that vary in price and renewable energy content.
/CDD/News/2023/11/cambridgecommunityelectricityprogramoffersnewfixedpricesandrenewableener...
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...
Affordable Housing Development
Active and completed housing development projects.
/CDD/housing/housingdevelopment/projects
PTDM
Information about the Parking and Transportation Demand Management Ordinance, how it is triggered and what compliance entails.
/CDD/Transportation/fordevelopers/ptdm
Home Energy Efficiency Tips to Cut Costs and Your Carbon Footprint
Watch Boston 25's segment on Energy Efficiency.
/CDD/News/2019/8/energyefficiencytips
Celebrating National Black Business Month
Join Cambridge in Celebrating National Black Business Month
/CDD/News/2023/7/jointhecityincelebratingblackbusinessmonth
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
Zoning Maps
City of Cambridge zoning and land use maps
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Maps
Business Development Workshops
This page describes the variety of business development workshops that the City of Cambridge offers.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/Workshops
Statistics Elsewhere on the Web
Statistics about Cambridge found elsewhere on the web.
/CDD/factsandmaps/otherstats
2023 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2023.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2023pb
Logan Noise Study
The City of Cambridge is a member of Logan Noise Study Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/logannoisestudy
Planning Board Meetings
Meeting Agendas, Hearing Notices and Transcripts for the Cambridge Planning Board.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings
2022 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2022.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2022pb