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Amigos School Play Area
The City of Cambridge completed the renovation of the Amigos School play area in 2018.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/amigosschoolyard
Play in the Public Realm
A summary of the many ways that parks and open space can be activated through programming and design.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/P/playinthepublicrealm
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
Morse Schoolyard
The Community Development Department is undergoing a planning process for the renovation of the outdoor play and gardening spaces at the Morse School.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/morseschoolyard
Healthy Parks and Playgrounds
Information about the City of Cambridge Healthy Parks and Playgrounds initiative.
/CDD/parks/osplanning/healthy
Waterplay Map
Shows locations of waterplay features at City-owned parks.
/CDD/parks/waterplaymap
Clarendon Avenue Playground
The Clarendon Avenue Playground underwent targeted repair work and equipment upgrades in 2020.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/clarendonavenueplayground
Graham and Parks School
The playground at the Graham & Parks School will undergo repair and maintenance work.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/grahamandparksschool
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
Kemp Playground
Alexander W. Kemp Playground at Cambridge Common was renovated in 2009 and includes a variety of play features to stimulate challenging physical activity as well as creative, exploratory, imaginative and social play for kids of all ages.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/commonkemp
Cambridge Bicycle Plan
Project webpage for the Cambridge Bicycle Plan, the City's bicycle master plan.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicyclenetworkplan
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
Open Space Plan Update
City of Cambridge Open Space and Recreation Plan
/CDD/parks/osplanning/openspaceplan
Gold Star Mothers Park
Located on Gore Street in East Cambridge next to the Simoni Skating Rink, this park features a softball field, playground with water play, and basketball courts.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/goldstarmotherspark
Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
This page describes updates to the Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan.
/CDD/climateandenergy/naturalhazardmitigationplan
Envision Cambridge
Final report of the Envision Cambridge citywide plan.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/E/envisioncambridge
Cambridge Fair Housing Plan 2016 - 2020
This Fair Housing Plan, that includes the Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice, was developed by the City of Cambridge to accompany the City’s Five Year Consolidated Plan (FY2016 to FY2020).
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/F/cambridgefairhousingplan20162020
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
Climate Change Preparedness and Resilience Plan
The CCPR Plan is being coordinated with the Envision Cambridge citywide planning process.
/CDD/Projects/Climate/climatechangeresilianceandadaptation
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
Pedestrian Plan
Reviews elements of the Cambridge Pedestrian Plan
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms/pedestrianplan
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
Draft One Year Action Plan
A Draft version of the FY2024 One Action Plan is available for review.
/CDD/News/2023/4/draftoneyearactionplan
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
June 2014 Open House Infographics
Infographics presented at the June, 12, 2014 Open House for the Cambridge Bicycle Network Plan.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicyclenetworkplan/openhousein...
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
Wellington-Harrington Action Plan
A project page for the Wellington-Harrington Action Plan. Part of the Neighborhood Planning Initiative.
/CDD/planud/NPI/wellingtonharringtonactionplan
Draft One-Year Action Plan for FY2025 HUD Grants Available
A DRAFT version of the FY2025 Annual Action Plan is available for review and comment by the public.
/CDD/News/2024/3/draftoneyearactionplanforfy2025hudgrantsavailable
Cambridge Riverfront Plan
The Cambridge Riverfront Plan suggests ways to improve connections from the neighborhoods to the Charles River
/CDD/Projects/Planning/Riverfront
Clement Morgan and Pine Street Parks
These two parks in Area Four were renovated in 2010 with all new play equipment, landscaping, pathways and park furniture. Clement Morgan Park lies between Columbia Street and Pine Street while Pine Street Park is found across from Clement Morgan Park.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/clemmorganpark
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
2nd Cambridge Bicycle Network Plan Open House
At the Open House the draft Bike Network Plan will be shared, along with additional information about input made over the past couple of months.
/CDD/Calendar/2014/12/04/cambridgebicyclenetworkplanopenhouse
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
Cambridge Climate Committee
The City Manager appoints a standing Climate Committee as an advisory committee to assist in the implementation of the Climate Protection Plan and Net Zero Action Plan.
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/climateprotectionactioncommittee
Cambridge to Host Hazard Mitigation Plan Public Meetings on October 25th
The City of Cambridge will be hosting two final public meetings for the latest updated draft to the city’s Hazard Mitigation Plan. Both meetings will occur on Wednesday, October 25.
/CDD/News/2023/10/cambridgetohosthazardmitigationplanpublicmeetingsonoctober25th
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
Public Comment Session for Utilization of HUD Grants
The Community Development Department will hold an information and public comment session in preparation of the City’s FY2026 Annual Action Plan and FY2026-2030 Consolidated Plan. The purpose of the session is to solicit public comments on affordable housing, economic development, public service and other community development needs as they relate to low and moderate-income Cambridge residents, and HOPWA qualifying residents across Middlesex and Essex counties.
/CDD/Calendar/2025/04/03/publiccommentsessionforutilizationofhudgrants
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
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/raymondparkrenovationopenhouse3
CDD Will Host Public Comment Session for Utilization of HUD Grants
The Community Development Department will hold an information and public comment session in preparation of the City’s FY2026 Annual Action Plan and FY2026-2030 Consolidated Plan. The purpose of the session is to solicit public comments on affordable housing, economic development, public service and other community development needs as they relate to low and moderate-income Cambridge residents, and HOPWA qualifying residents across Middlesex and Essex counties.
/CDD/News/2025/3/publiccommentsessionforutilizationofhudgrants
Greene-Rose Heritage Park
Greene-Rose Heritage Park lies along Harvard Street near the intersection with Moore Street. There is also an access point from Broadway near the intersection with Windsor Street. The park was expanded and renovated in 2008 and now includes a children’s playground, water play area, open field, benches, landscaping and trees, and public art installations.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/greenrosepark
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
Town Gown Report
Addresses the relationship between the Cambridge community and the educational institutions that play an important role in the City's landscape and economy.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/T/towngownreport1991
Current Programs
There are programs which we undertake such as creating charging stations for electric cars, doing bike promotions and education, crating a pedestrian plan and working to place bus shelters at busy stops.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms
CDBG 2010 - 2015 Five Year Plan
Five-Year Consolidated Plan delineating the broad objectives of CDBG funded programs and initiatives The current Five-Year Plan covers fiscal years 2011 through 2015.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/cdbg5yearplan
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
Downloads: Transit
With six subway stations and 31 MBTA bus lines in Cambridge, plus numerous private shuttles, you can go everywhere on transit. Using these resources will make it easy to plan your trip!
/CDD/Transportation/CitySmart/citysmartbytransit
Public Input Sought on HUD Grants for Programs Benefitting Low/Moderate Income Residents
Public hearing in preparation of the City’s FY2024 Annual Action Plan for the utilization of federal funding for programs that benefit low and moderate-income residents of Cambridge, as well as eligible HOPWA beneficiaries across Middlesex and Essex counties.
/CDD/News/2023/4/publiccommentopportunityforhudgrants
Comprehensive Planning
Envision Cambridge is the City’s current citywide plan, a roadmap to the year 2030, setting out a course of action to promote sustainable and inclusive growth. It establishes a framework for growth management that builds upon and complements existing patterns of development, while meeting the needs of today’s community and future generations. Prior to the establishment of Envision Cambridge, the comprehensive plan for Cambridge was composed of a set of documents: The Zoning Map and the Zoning Ordinance, the City’s growth policy document, Toward A Sustainable Future, and the major area-wide planning studies across the city.
/CDD/planud/masterplan
Central Square Rezoning - Walking Tour
Join the Central Square Rezoning project team and the Cambridge Historical Commission for a walking tour of Central Square. Come learn about the Square's past and present to help plan for it's future!
/CDD/News/2024/9/centralsquarerezoningwalkingtour
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
Energy Reduction Plan
2010 plan for the reduction of energy consumption by the City.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/E/energyreductionplan2010
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
Russell Field
This North Cambridge park is bordered by Rindge Avenue, Clifton Street, Harvey Street, and the W.R. Grace property. The Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School football team plays its games here. The park also contains two Little League fields and a soccer field.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/russellfield
Haggerty School Playground
The renovation of the Haggerty School Playground was completed in 2015.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/haggertyschoolplayground
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
Alden Playground
Alden Playground is located in Baldwin neighborhood at the intersection of Oxford Street and Sacramento Street, across from the Baldwin School.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/aldenplayground
Cambridge Street Action Plan
1997 plan providing the basis for efforts to renew and rebuild the Cambridge Street commercial corridor.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/cambridgestreetactionplan1997
Central Square Action Plan
1987 plan used to guide actions of Central Square Advisory Committee appointed by the City Manager.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/centralsquareactionplan1987
Climate Protection Plan
The 2002 Climate Protection Plan discusses the nature of climate change and the options for local action.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/climateplan2002
Central Square Improvements Project Master Plan 1995
1995 plan providing a vision for Central Square and focusing on physical improvements to the public realm.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/centralsquareimprovementsplan1995
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
Park Projects
Park projects and planning efforts currently underway or recently completed.
/CDD/parks/parksprojects
Father Callanan Playground at Tobin School
Father Callanan Playground is adjacent to and behind the John M. Tobin Elementary School and has also been referred to as the Tobin School Playground. The play area is behind the Tobin School between Vassal lane and Concord Avenue.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/callananplayground
Hoyt Park
Russell E. Hoyt Park is the largest community park in the Riverside neighborhood. It's a place for everyone—whether you love playing sports, spending time with your dog, or just relaxing outdoors.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/hoytfield
Alewife Plan for Sustainable Development
1995 plan identifying issues in the Alewife area related to environment, public open space, transportation, housing, economic development and urban design.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/A/alewifeplan1995
Pedestrian Plan
Plan published in 2000 describes the role of walking in Cambridge, current City policies and projects, and the direction of future pedestrian improvements.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/P/pedestrianplan2000
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
Alewife Fish Book
Published in 1979, the Alewife "Fish Book" plan offered a revised vision for redevelopment of Alewife, then an aging industrial area in western Cambridge.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/A/alewifefishbook1979
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
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
Increased funding for Cambridge Small Business Grants
Cambridge small businesses now qualify for more funding to help pay for exterior and interior improvements, equipment purchases, and marketing upgrades.
/CDD/News/2023/8/increasedfundingforcambridgesmallbusinessgrants
Climate Change Preparedness and Resilience (CCPR) Alewife Preparedness Handbook
This is a companion document to the Draft Alewife Preparedness Plan. It describes a range of resiliency strategies using a consistent, easy-to-read format for a broad audience.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/ccpralewifehandbook
East Cambridge Riverfront Plan
1978 study that serves as the blueprint for redevelopment of the East Cambridge "Triangle," as well as the urban design plan for the East Cambridge Riverfront and industrial area.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/E/eastcambridgeriverfrontplan1978
Central Square Zoning Guide
1989 guide setting out criteria for the review of proposed development projects within the Central Square area. Used with the Central Square Action Plan and referenced in Zoning Ordinance, Article 20.300.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/C/centralsquarezngguide1989
Open Space and Recreation Plan
Current seven-Year Open Space and Recreation Plan covering the period 2009 to 2016. Required by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs for eligibility for open space funding.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/O/openspaceandrecplan2010
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
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
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...
Town Gown, PILOT and Institutional Planning
Learn about about institutional planning in Cambridge and view the current Town Gown Reports from Cambridge College, Harvard University, Lesley University, and MIT
/CDD/planud/institutionalplanning
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
87-101 Blanchard Road
B'nai B'rith Housing, a Greater Boston nonprofit housing developer, is proposing to expand the existing site at 89 Blanchard Road and create new affordable senior housing. They plan to create this new housing under provisions of the Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO).
/CDD/Projects/Housing/87101blanchardroad
Maple Avenue Park
Maple Avenue Park is located at the intersection of Maple Avenue and Marie Avenue in the Mid Cambridge neighborhood. Park renovations were completed in 2004.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/mapleavepark
Retrofit Program Development Process - Full Report
To achieve the goals of its Net Zero Action Plan and to encourage buildings subject to BEUDO to take steps to significantly reduce their energy use, the City conducted research, qualitative analysis, and stakeholder engagement to inform the development of a voluntary, comprehensive retrofit program.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/B/buedocustomretrofitprogramdesignfinalrepor...
Hurley Street Park
The City of Cambridge completed a comprehensive renovation of Hurley Street Park in East Cambridge in 2015.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/hurleystreetpark
Cambridgeport Parks
In 2013 the City completed the renovation three neighborhood parks in Cambridgeport. Alberico Park, David Nunes (Old Morse) Park, and Fulmore Park are small to moderately sized parks located in Cambridgeport along Allston Street and Sidney Street.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/cportparks
Cambridge Climate Action Leader Program
Climate Action Leaders is a climate change education and outreach program.
/CDD/climateandenergy/cambridgeclimateleaderprogram
Federal Funding Plans and Reports
Information about plans and reports for federal grants management, including CDBG, HOME and ESG.
/CDD/federalgrants/plansandreports
STAR Plans and Policies
Partial listing of existing city plans and polices referenced by STAR Communities.
/CDD/starcommunities/starplansandpolicies
Inclusionary Housing Program for Developers
The Inclusionary Housing Program requires developers of certain projects to provide afforadable housing units.
/CDD/housing/fordevelopersandpropmanagers/inclusionarydevelopers
Charles Park
A passive park near the Charles River and the Cambridgeside Galleria between Cambridge Parkway and Land Boulevard near its intersection with Rogers Street. This park also includes a small tot-lot that was renovated in 2005.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/charlespark
Cambridge Plays Application is Now Open!
Do you have an idea of how to activate a Cambridge park or plaza? We are currently looking for local businesses and non-profits to submit proposals for ways to activate public parks and plazas during May - July 2023.
/CDD/News/2023/4/cambridgeplaysapplicationisnowopen!
Dana Park
Dana Park is located on Magazine Street between Corporal McTernan and Lawrence Streets in the Cambridgeport neighborhood. Park renovations were completed in 2004.
/CDD/parks/parksinfo/Parks/danapark
Net Zero Action Plan
The “Getting to Net Zero” Task Force will advise the City Manager on ways to advance the goal of putting Cambridge on the trajectory towards becoming a “net zero community”, with focus on carbon emissions from building operations.
/CDD/Projects/Climate/netzerotaskforce
Raymond Park
The City of Cambridge will renovate Raymond Park in Neighborhood Nine. The design and community engagement process will begin in early 2024, and construction is anticipated to begin in 2025.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/raymondpark
Bicycle WikiMap
The Cambridge Bicycle WikiMap allows location-based suggestions and input about facilities for bicycling in Cambridge. Comments submitted through the WikiMap will be regularly evaluated and taken into account for future planning efforts.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicyclewikimap
New East Cambridge Parks
Read design and construction updates related to Binney St. Park, Rogers St. Park, and Triangle Park.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/eastcambridgeparks
Permits and Maintenance
Contact information for obtaining field permits and calling about maintenance questions.
/CDD/parks/permits
PTDM
Information about the Parking and Transportation Demand Management Ordinance, how it is triggered and what compliance entails.
/CDD/Transportation/fordevelopers/ptdm
For Developers
The City actively works with developers to ensure that Traffic Demand Management incentives are in place.
/CDD/Transportation/fordevelopers
Gold Star Mothers Park Court Renovation
The City of Cambridge will be renovating the basketball court area at the Gold Star Mothers Park in East Cambridge.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/goldstarmothersparkcourtrenovation
Climate Action Plans and Reports (2002 - 2015)
A series of plans and reports describe and evaluate the current status of Cambridge’s efforts to achieve the city's climate protection goals.
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/climateactionplan/climateactionplanreports
Planning for Climate Change Vulnerability
The City has a number of initiatives to reduce Cambridge's contribution to atmospheric greenhouse gases through energy efficiency projects in buildings, renewable energy (e.g., solar), reduced reliance on automobiles, and other measures.
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/climatechangeresilianceandadaptationpage
FY2026 HUD Grants Public Comment Drop-In Session
On Thursday, May 29 4-6pm in the City Hall Annex 2nd Floor Conference room, there will be a Public Comment Drop-In Session for the Utilization of FY26 HUD Grants managed by the Community Development Department, Housing Department and Department of Human Service Programs
/CDD/News/2025/5/fy2026hudgrantspubliccommentdropinsession
Public Comment Drop-In Session for HUD Grants
Public Comment Drop-In Session for the Utilization of FY26 HUD Grants managed by the Community Development Department, Housing Department and Department of Human Service Programs
/CDD/Calendar/2025/05/29/publiccommentdropinsessionforhudgrants
By Foot
Cambridge is a great city for walkers. It is compact and flat, it is well served by public transportation, and its mix of housing, stores, services, work places and parks means that many destinations are within easy walking distance.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot
Frost Terrace - 1791 Mass Ave
Project page for a 40 unit affordable rental project at 1791 Mass Ave, called Frost Terrace
/CDD/Projects/Housing/frostterrace1791massave
Harvard Square Advisory Committee Meeting
A meeting of the Harvard Square Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/09/18/harvardsquareadvisorycommittee20240918
Draft Review Public Comment on Use of HOME-ARP Grant Funds
The City of Cambridge is accepting comments on the use of HOME-ARP funds.
/CDD/News/2023/2/publiccommentonuseofhomearpgrantfunds
Second Community Meetings for Neighborhood Action Plans
Attend the second community meetings for the Mid-Cambridge, Neighborhood Nine, and Wellington-Harrington Neighborhood Action Plans!
/CDD/News/2023/9/secondcommunitymeetingsforneighborhoodactionplans
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
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
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
Emergency Preparedness Resources for Businesses
This page describes resources for small businesses to be better prepared during emergencies and other natural and man-made disasters.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/emergencypreparednessforbus...
Sustainability Dashboard
The City of Cambridge Community Development Department has created a sustainability dashboard to track the progress of climate, transportation, and energy goals.
/CDD/factsandmaps/sustainabilitydashboard
Mass Ave Planning Study (MAPS) Working Group - Meeting 1
We will be hosting our first working group meeting for the Mass Ave Planning Study on Wednesday, February 7 at 6 PM. The meeting will serve as an introduction to the project; an opportunity for working group members to learn more about the process; and a chance for any members of the public to ask initial questions for the planning team. This meeting will be held via Zoom.
/CDD/News/2024/1/massaveplanningstudymapsworkinggroupmeeting1
Mass Ave Planning Study (MAPS) Working Group - Meeting 2
This is the second regular meeting of the Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group, a representative body of neighborhood stakeholders that will help guide the planning process for Mass Ave from Cambridge Common to Alewife Brook Parkway.
/CDD/News/2024/3/massaveplanningstudymapsworkinggroupmeeting2
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
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
Transit in Cambridge
Learn more about how Cambridge participates in transit planning and the MBTA.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit
Downloads: Bike
Biking around the city can take some getting used to, so here are some CitySmart resources to help you get rolling.
/CDD/Transportation/CitySmart/citysmartbybike
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
Harvard Square Advisory Committee Meeting
A meeting of the Harvard Square Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/11/20/harvardsquareadvisorycommittee20241120
Sustainable Development
Cambridge has adopted policies to encourage and require energy efficient and sustainable buildings as a strategy to achieve Cambridge’s goal to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment
Eastern Cambridge/Kendall Square Open Space Study
Area-wide planning study for future open space improvements in Eastern Cambridge and Kendall Square, including the development of three new parks and the redesign of a plaza in the heart of the square.
/CDD/parks/osplanning/ecambkendallparks
Regional Funding - Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)
Learn more about how regional funding works within the Boston Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO).
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/funding
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
Alberico Park
Proposed improvements to Alberico Park
/CDD/Projects/Parks/albericopark
Open Space Planning
Information about open space planning studies and processes in Cambridge.
/CDD/parks/osplanning
2023 Neighborhood Action Plans - Idea Maps
We're starting Neighborhood Action Plans for Mid-Cambridge, Neighborhood Nine, and Wellington-Harrington and we need your help!
/CDD/News/2023/4/neighborhoodactionplansideamaps
Community Planning Awards
Listing of Cambridge Community Development Department Planning Awards
/CDD/Awards
Ames Street Separated Bike Lane Project (Main St to Memorial Dr)
Ames Street Separated Bike Lane Project (Main St to Memorial Dr)
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/amesstreetseparatedbicyclelaneproject
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
Mt. Auburn Street Bus Priority Pilot
Cambridge, in partnership with Watertown, was awarded a community grant from the Barr Foundation to work with the Institute for Transportation and Development Policy (ITDP) to pilot bus priority improvements for routes 71 and 73 along Mt. Auburn Street west of Fresh Pond Parkway. The demonstration project includes the first dedicated bus lanes in Cambridge and new bike lanes, as well as transit signal priority. It uses temporary materials like paint and signs, which will remain in place during the evaluation, and is the first step towards implementing a long-term plan for the Mt. Auburn corridor.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/mtauburnstreetbusprioritydemonstration
Policies
City, State, and Federal Policies all guide bicycle planning in Cambridge. Following please find many of the policies that guide planning in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/policies
Bicycle Crash Information
This City of Cambridge has been analyzing crash data in depth.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicyclecrashinformation
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
Joint Meetings of Transportation Committees
Joint meetings of one or more of the City's Transportation Advisory Committees.
/CDD/Transportation/forthepublic/jointcommitteemeetings
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
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
Timothy J. Toomey, Jr. Park
The new Timothy J. Toomey, Jr. Park located at 71 Rogers Street in East Cambridge is now open to the public.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/rogersstreetpark
Cambridge Plays Applications Open for Spring 2024
The Community Development Department (CDD) partners with local businesses and organizations to sponsor free events in squares and neighborhoods across the city. Apply to receive reimbursement of up to $2,000 for eligible activities.
/CDD/News/2024/4/cambridgeplaysapplicationsopenforspring2024
Share Feedback on South Mass Ave Bus Only Lanes and Separated Bike Lane Proposal
The City of Cambridge would like your feedback on a proposed expansion of bus-only lanes and separated bike lanes on Massachusetts Avenue between Douglass Street to Memorial Drive.
/CDD/News/2021/9/southmassavebuspriorityprojectfeedback
Longfellow Road Traffic Calming
The project includes reconstruction of Longfellow Road as a "Shared Street," which consists of having roadway and sidewalks at the same level.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/longfellowroadtcalm
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
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
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
Urban Design
What is urban design? This term means different things to different people.
/CDD/planud/urbandesignprimer
49 6th Street
49 6th Street is a proposed adaptive re-use of the former Sacred Heart Rectory, School and Convent.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/496thstreet
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
Street, Sidewalk and Path Projects
The City of Cambridge designs a number of Street, Sidewalk and Path Improvement Projects. The projects are a collaboration of the Community Development, Public Works and Traffic, Parking and Transportation Department.
/CDD/Transportation/projects
Comcast Rise Grant
Starting Thursday, May 1 through Saturday, May 31, eligible small businesses in the Boston area (including Cambridge) can apply for the Comcast RISE Program
/CDD/News/2025/5/comcastrisegrant
Walden Square II
Walden Square II is an affordable infill development being proposed by WinnCompanies, the owner of Walden Square Apartments, an existing 240-unit affordable development in North Cambridge.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/waldensquareii
Binney Street Park
A new City park will be developed at 322 Binney Street in the East Cambridge neighborhood.
/CDD/Projects/Parks/binneystreetpark
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
Aging in Cambridge
The Community Development Department working with the Department of Human Service Programs explored the housing needs of the senior population.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/Aging
Spring Street Traffic Calming
The Spring Street reconstruction project includes traffic calming elements to reduce vehicle speeds and enhance safety for pedestrians.
/CDD/Projects/trafficcalming/springstreet
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
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
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...
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
Planning Board Meetings
Meeting Agendas, Hearing Notices and Transcripts for the Cambridge Planning Board.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings
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
Lower Massachusetts Avenue
In 2011, the City of Cambridge Community Development Department began a study to explore ways to improve the character of Mass Avenue from Cambridge Commons to Porter Square.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/lowermassave
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
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
Central Square Advisory Committee
The Central Square Advisory Committee is appointed by the City Manager to undertake all large project reviews, receive all applications for variances and special permits for activities within the Central Square Overlay District, and monitor the progress of the Central Square non-zoning recommendations of the K2C2 Study.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/advcomms/centraladvcomm
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
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
Climate Resilience Zoning Draft Available for Review
A proposal for Climate Resilience is available for review
/CDD/News/2022/11/climateresiliencezoningdraftavailableforreview
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
Design Guidelines and Area Plans
The Zoning Ordinance refers to urban design plans and guidelines that apply to certain parts of the city or to certain categories of development.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/designguidelines
Cambridge Court
Preservation and renovation of existing affordable housing at Cambridge Court Apartments at 411 Franklin Street.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/cambridgecourt
Inman/CAST II
The Inman/CAST II project consists of 2 properties, Inman Square Apartments on Cambridge St and CAST II Apartments on Columbia St., purchased and preserved as affordable housing by Homeowners Rehab Inc.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/inmancast
East Cambridge
Information about the East Cambridge Commercial District. It includes market profile, business association and study documents about the area.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/eastcamb
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
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!
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
Strategies and Policies
Transportation policy and planning in Cambridge emphasizes sustainable modes of transportation such as walking, biking and using transit and low emission vehicles.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/stratagiesandpolicies
Cambridge Announces Small Business E-Commerce Grant
Applications are now open for a new grant to help Cambridge businesses improve their web presence. Businesses can receive up to $4,000 in relief funds to improve their website, add services like online ordering or booking, and other eligible expenses.
/CDD/News/2023/1/cambridgeannouncessmallbusinessecommercegrant
New Lease Rent Relief Grant for Cambridge Small Business Provides Up to $25,000 in COVID Recovery Assistance
New ARPA grant for new small businesses in Cambridge with a new multi-year lease is accepting applications on May 17.
/CDD/News/2024/5/newarpagrantfornewsmallbusinessesnewleaserentrelief
New Lease Rent Relief Grant Application Re-Opens
New, small, for-profit businesses in Cambridge are eligible to apply to the last round of the New Lease Rent Relief grant.
/CDD/News/2024/10/newleaserentreliefgrantapplicationreopens
LEED Light Pollution Reduction Credit Analysis of Cambridge Buildings
LEED Light Pollution Reduction Credit analysis of specific Cambridge buildings.
/CDD/Projects/EconDev/lightingordinancetaskforce/leedlightreductioncreditanalysis
Kendall Square
Information about the Kendall Square Commercial District
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/kendallsq
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...
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
Regional Transportation Planning
Cambridge participates in regional transportation planning efforts. Learn more about planning, funding, and projects.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning
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
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
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
Retail Land Use Initiative
This page provides information on updates being made to the retail section of the table of uses in the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance
/CDD/Projects/EconDev/retaillanduseinitiative
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
Apply to the Spring Cambridge Business Planning Program
Interested in starting a business? Apply to the free, virtual 10-week Cambridge Business Planning Program!
/CDD/News/2023/1/applytothespringcambridgebusinessplanningprogram
Updated Neighborhood Statistical Profile Now Available
The report includes data specific to each of Cambridge's 13 neighborhoods.
/CDD/News/2023/6/neighborhoodstatisticalprofile2023
CDD Climate Resilience Zoning
Information on Cambridge's recently-adopted zoning amendments related to climate resilience.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/climateresiliencezoning
2016 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2016.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2016pb
Low Carbon Energy Supply Strategy
A description of the low carbon energy supply strategy
/CDD/climateandenergy/climatechangeplanning/lowcarbonenergysupplystrategy
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
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Learn about how the city of Cambridge tracks greenhouse gas emissions.
/CDD/climateandenergy/greenhousegasemissions
Apply to the Cambridge Business Planning Program
Interested in starting a business? apply to the free, virtual 10-week Cambridge Business Planning Program!
/CDD/News/2022/9/applytothecambridgebusinessplanningprogram
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
Blanchard Road
Blanchard Road from Concord Avenue to Grove Street was fully reconstructed with new sidewalks, bike lanes and a raised intersection at Glenn Road.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/blanchardroad
Neighborhood Planning Initiative
Cambridge’s Neighborhood Planning Initiative (NPI) gives everyone in Cambridge access to local planning! Together we can improve the places and activities that are central to your daily life.
/CDD/planud/NPI
By Transit
With six Red and Green Line MBTA stations, dozens of bus routes, the EZRide and Cambridgeside Mall Shuttles, getting around Cambridge on public transit is always a great option. See below for transit routes and providers.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bytransit
Limited Equity Cooperatives
Information about limited equity cooperatives, several of which are found in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/coops
Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Vacancies
The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA) is an independent public body focused on publicly beneficial real estate projects and infrastructure investment within the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2024/7/cambridgeredevelopmentauthorityadditionalvacancies
Other Sustainability Information
In addition to initiatives to make buildings and vehicles more sustainable, the City addresses other issues including: Urban forestry, Recycling, composting, and waste reduction, Environmentally preferable purchasing, Stormwater management and Safe drinking water supply.
/CDD/climateandenergy/municipalsustainability/othersustainabilityissues
Car-Free With Kids
Learn how to get around Cambridge with kids on bike, transit, and on foot.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/carfreewithkids
STAR Communities
STAR Communities assesses communities on their programs, policies and accomplishments that promote environmental, social and economic sustainability. Cambridge achieved the highest rating in the country from STAR Communities for its leadership in sustainability.
/CDD/starcommunities
Sustainable Development & Greening of Affordable Housing
Sustainable development and greening of Cambridge’s affordable housing stock.
/CDD/housing/housingdevelopment/sustainabledevelopment
Ames Street Land Disposition
The Cambridge City Council has approved the disposition of City-owned land on the eastern edge of Ames Street between Main Street and Broadway.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/amesstreetlanddisposition
Alewife
Information about the Alewife Commercial District. It includes market profile, business association and study documents about the area.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/aboutcambridge/Alewife
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
2018 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2018.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2018pb
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...
Harvard Square Design Project
Harvard Square street and sidewalk reconstruction project to promote bicycle and walking. Also includes recommendation to build multi-use path at Flagstaff Park.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/harvardsquare
Article 22 Green Roofs Requirement
Guidance for complying with green building roofs requirement found in Article 22 of the zoning ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/article22greenroofsrequirement
Evaluations and Studies
Evaluations and Studies are conducted by the City of Cambridge on many projects.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/evaluationsandstudies
Business Development Workshops
This page describes the variety of business development workshops that the City of Cambridge offers.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/Workshops
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
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
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
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
CharlieCards
Where to get a CharlieCard in Cambridge
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bytransit/CharlieCards
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
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
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...
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...
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
Rules of the Road
Learn about the rules of the road in Massachusetts, whether you drive, bike, or walk.
/CDD/Transportation/rulesoftheroad
For Renters of Inclusionary Units
Information for tenants in units created through the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance who received their unit through application to the City of Cambridge Housing Division.
/CDD/housing/forrenters/forrentersofcityinclusionaryunits
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
Small Business Challenge Projects on Display
Learn more about how the 2017 participants invigorated their commercial districts.
/CDD/News/2017/7/smallbusinesschallengeprojectsondisplay
2021 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2021.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2021pb
Planning & Urban Design
Planning and urban design staff members work on many fronts to help the Cambridge community prepare for future growth and change.
/CDD/planud
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
Vacant Storefront Initiative
This page describes a variety of resources for property owners who have vacant storefronts in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/vacantstorefrontresources
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
Cambridge Awards $1 Million in ARPA Funds for Solar Panel Installation on Affordable Housing
Cambridge has announced that two local affordable housing organizations have been awarded grant funding in support of the installation of solar panels on affordable housing in the City.
/CDD/News/2025/1/cambridgeawards$1millioninarpafundsforsolarpanelinstallationonaffordableh...
PARKing Day Open House
Have questions about PARK(ing) Day in Cambridge? Drop in anytime from 4-7pm on April 18th and get them answered.
/CDD/Calendar/2017/04/19/parkingdayopenhouse
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
Persons with Disabilities
Getting around Cambridge for persons with disabilities, on foot or by transit or taxi.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/personswithdisabilities
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
Belmont - Cambridge - Somerville Path
Learn more about MassDOT's community path project that connects Belmont, Cambridge, and Somerville.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/belmontcambridgesomervillepath
Affordable Housing Development
Active and completed housing development projects.
/CDD/housing/housingdevelopment/projects
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...
Elevator Projects
Learn about MBTA elevator projects in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit/elevatorprojects
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...
Rental Applicant Pool
Description of the Rental Applicant Pool for applying for Inclusionary Rental units.
/CDD/housing/forapplicants/rentalapplicantpool
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...
Home Energy Efficiency Tips to Cut Costs and Your Carbon Footprint
Watch Boston 25's segment on Energy Efficiency.
/CDD/News/2019/8/energyefficiencytips
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...
Foreclosure Resources and Assistance
Resources for homeowners who are concerned about foreclosure.
/CDD/housing/forhomeowners/foreclosureassistance
Inclusionary Housing for Property Managers
Information for property managers of inclusionary housing projects.
/CDD/housing/fordevelopersandpropmanagers/manageinclusionary
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
Mass Ave Planning Study Working Group-Cambridge Common to Alewife Brook Parkway: Call for Members. Application Deadline Extended to 10-23-23.
The Cambridge Community Development Department, in collaboration with other city departments and guided by the Cambridge community, will craft a vision for the future of Mass Ave between Cambridge Common and Alewife Brook Parkway. The planning study will address topics of land use, urban design, housing, climate resiliency, small business support, mobility, and public space, as well as zoning recommendations for future development.
/CDD/News/2023/9/massaveplanningstudyworkinggroupcambridgecommontoalewifebrookparkway
2022 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2022.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2022pb
100 Percent Affordable Housing Overlay
The 100%-Affordable Housing Overlay (AHO) is designed to help affordable housing developers create new affordable homes more quickly, more cost effectively, and in areas of the city where there are currently fewer affordable housing opportunities.
/CDD/housing/housingdevelopment/aho
Adopted Zoning Amendments
Listing of adopted amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments/adoptedzoningamendments
Article 22 Green Building Requirements
Guidance for complying with green building requirements found in Article 22 of the zoning ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/sustainabledevelopment/article22greenbldgrequirements
Older Trust Agendas and Minutes
Older Affordable Housing Trust Agendas and Minutes
/CDD/housing/housingtrust/oldertrustagendasandminutes
2017 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2017.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2017pb
2024 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2024.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2024pb
Members Sought for City of Cambridge Planning Board
The Planning Board is a group of Cambridge residents who make recommendations and decisions about urban development on behalf of the City of Cambridge. The Planning Board has seven full members and two associate members. All members can participate in Planning Board discussions.
/CDD/News/2023/2/planningboardvacancy
Members Sought for Cambridge Planning Board
The Planning Board is made up of a group of Cambridge residents who make recommendations and decisions about urban development on behalf of the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2024/11/planningboardvacancy
Members Sought for City of Cambridge Planning Board (Application Deadline is 3-18-24)
The Planning Board is a group of Cambridge residents who make recommendations and decisions about urban development on behalf of the City of Cambridge. The Planning Board has seven full members and two associate members. All members can participate in Planning Board discussions.
/CDD/News/2024/2/planningboardvacancy
2019 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2019.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2019pb
100%-Affordable Housing Zoning Overlay
A proposal that will allow 100% affordable housing development to compete with market-rate development.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/affordablehousingoverlay
Bus Priority
bus priority projects
/CDD/Transportation/regionalplanning/masstransit/buspriority
Ebikes
Information on ebikes
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/ebikes