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Safe Routes to School
Webpage for the Cambridge Safe Routes to School program to support and encourage students who wish to walk or bike to school.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/saferoutestoschool
Walking Maps
Maps for each Cambridge Public School with recommended walking routes to school.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/saferoutestoschool/saferouteswalkingmaps
Pedestrian Committee
The Cambridge Pedestrian Committee works to create a more comfortable, safe, and pleasant environment for walking in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/forthepublic/pedestriancomm
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
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
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
Bicycle Toolbox
Bicycle facilities, markings, signs, and signals that can be used to make streets, paths, and intersections safer and more convenient for cyclists.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/biketoolbox
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
Rules of the Road
In general, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as motorists when traveling on the public ways in Massachusetts.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/rulesoftheroad
First-Time Homebuyer Lottery Opportunity - The Pathmark
The City of Cambridge is offering four new affordable condominiums for sale to income-eligible first-time homebuyers through a lottery process. These affordable condos are located at The Pathmark, 97 Elmwood Street in North Cambridge near Davis Square.
/CDD/News/2023/8/firsttimehomebuyerlotteryopportunitythepathmark
Transit Service Analysis Study
Buses in Cambridge operate on the street network in mixed traffic, exposing bus passengers to the same delay from congestion as drivers of single occupancy vehicles. The Transit Service Analysis Study used a data driven approach to assess bus routes in Cambridge to prioritize locations for bus priority street treatments.
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/transitserviceanalysisstudy
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
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
By Car
Learn more about getting around Cambridge by car.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bycar
Traffic Signals
The City's traffic signals are timed with pedestrians in mind.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/Walking/trafficsignals
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...
Bicycle Workshops
The City of Cambridge offers free bicycle training workshops throughout the year for people who work or live in Cambridge. Updated often!
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycleworkshops
Bicycle Lanes
Many people in Cambridge choose to use a bicycle to get around. Some do it for convenience, others for exercise, and yet others because it is economical.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycling/bicyclelanes
CitySmart
CitySmart connects you with the information and resources you need to get around without getting behind the wheel. Biking, walking and transit take you where you need to be. Whether it’s a trip to the grocery store or a day at the beach—getting there really can be half the fun!
/CDD/Transportation/CitySmart
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
Bluebikes Introduction
Want to learn how to get around using Bluebikes? The Department of Transportation will be hosting a workshop on how to use them in the City of Cambridge!
/CDD/Calendar/2025/10/21/bluebikesintroduction
Mount Auburn Street Corridor Study
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), in conjunction with Cambridge and Watertown, has been conducting a Mount Auburn Corridor Planning Study to develop a range of implementable short- and long-term plans for the improvement of Mount Auburn Street, from the Watertown line to Fresh Pond Parkway, and parts of Fresh Pond Parkway.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/mountauburnstreetcorridorstudy
Shared Lane Markings
The purpose of the markings is to create improved conditions for bicycling, by clarifying where cyclists are expected to ride and to notify motorists to expect cyclists on the road.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycling/sharedlanemarkings
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
Rules of the Road
Learn about the rules of the road in Massachusetts, whether you drive, bike, or walk.
/CDD/Transportation/rulesoftheroad
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
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...
Safety
Safety tips for Motorists and Bicyclists in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Safety
Ebikes
Information on ebikes
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/ebikes
Pedestrian Plan
Reviews elements of the Cambridge Pedestrian Plan
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms/pedestrianplan
Pedestrian Safety
Designing intersections for pedestrian safety is a priority whenever roads are reconstructed.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/pedestriansafety
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
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
Mediation Services
Mediation Services is a professional mediation, dispute resolution and education service program based in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forrenters/mediationservices
Green Line Extension
The MBTA extended the Green Line to Union Square in Somerville and College Avenue in Medford. The MBTA also plans for a future extension to Route 16/Mystic Valley Parkway in West Medford.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/greenlineextension
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
Lead Paint Safety
Information about lead paint, what it is, why it poses a hazard, the Massachusetts Lead Law and where to find information and assistance.
/CDD/housing/resourcesandadditionalinformation/leadpaintsafety
Cambridge Riverfront Plan
The Cambridge Riverfront Plan suggests ways to improve connections from the neighborhoods to the Charles River
/CDD/Projects/Planning/Riverfront
Street Lighting
The 2010 City Lighting Study, on which the Electrical Department and the Community Development Department collaborated, called for the evaluation of emerging LED (light emitting diode) street light fixtures.
/CDD/climateandenergy/municipalsustainability/streetlighting
Cambridge Zones for Multifamily Housing Citywide
On February 10, 2025, the Cambridge City Council voted to adopt zoning amendments that allow multifamily housing in all Cambridge neighborhoods.
/CDD/News/2025/2/zoningformultifamilyhousingcitywide
Hubway Basics Workshops
Learn the rules of the road for biking in an urban setting. Learn how to use the Hubway Bike Share system.
/CDD/Calendar/2017/04/26/hubwaybasicsworkshop
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...
Homeownership Program Term Changes
The Housing Department is updating the program. Current homeowners can choose to sign an amendment (update) to their Affordable Housing Restriction.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/affordablehomeownershipchanges2025
Putnam Square - 2 Mt Auburn Street
During 2013 Homeowners Rehab Inc. purchased the Putnam Square Apartments at 2 Mt Auburn Street, preserving 94 units of affordable housing for seniors and disabled individuals.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/putnamsquare2mtauburn
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
Cambridge Businesses Honored at 2024 Legacy Luncheon Awards
On Wednesday, May 1, 2024 the City of Cambridge kicked off National Small Business Month by hosting the Cambridge Legacy Business Luncheon. This event celebrates some of the oldest businesses in Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2024/5/cambridgebusinesseshonoredat2024legacyluncheonawards
Chapman Arms
Located at 122 Mount Auburn Street the Chapman Arms Apartments, formerly known as the Craigie Arms, was purchased by Homeowners Rehab Inc. in 2011, preserving 25 affordable housing units. Major rehab was completed in Summer of 2014.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/chapmanarms
Urban Cycling Basics - Healthy Aging in Cambridge
Are you interested in learning how to bicycle around the city of Cambridge? Join us and learn the rules of the road, strategies for riding safely and tips for comfort!
/CDD/Calendar/2016/05/19/urbancyclingbasicshealthyagingincambridge
On-Bicycle Refresher Course
Do you know how to ride a bike, but are a little nervous to ride on the road? This is the course for you!
/CDD/Calendar/2016/05/14/onbicyclerefreshercourse
Bicycle Maintenance Basics Workshop
Learn how to fix a flat, adjust your brakes and much more. Come to one or best sessions!
/CDD/Calendar/2016/05/25/bicyclemaintenancebasicsworkshop
Bicycle Maintenance Basics Workshop
Learn how to fix a flat, adjust your brakes and much more. Come to one or best sessions!
/CDD/Calendar/2016/05/25/bicyclemaintenancebeyondbasicsworkshop
Succession Planning
The Economic Opportunity and Development Division offers resources for small business owners planning and thinking about succession planning.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/succe...
Development Log
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks larger-scale residential and commercial development projects.
/CDD/developmentlog
Vacant Storefront Initiative
This page describes a variety of resources for property owners who have vacant storefronts in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/vacantstorefrontresources
Letters of Commitment
Some sections of the Zoning Ordinance refer to Letters of Commitment describing agreements between the City of Cambridge and a property owner or developer related to a particular zoning change.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/commitmentletters
Bike Regulations
The Web version of the City of Cambridge, Massachusetts Traffic Regulations is provided for reference and the convenience of having the Ordinance in a computer-readable format.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/rulesoftheroad/bikeregulations
Eligibility Guidelines
Eligibility Guidelines for CDBG funded Workshops.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/eligi...
Urban Agriculture Task Force
The Urban Agriculture Task Force is developing an ordinance that includes 1) zoning to explicitly allow agricultural activities, and, 2) regulations to support and limit activities.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/urbanagriculturetaskforce
Multifamily Citywide
In March 2024, the City Council passed Policy Order 2024 #37, which asked the Community Development Department “to work with the chairs of the Housing Committee to create zoning language that effectively promotes multifamily housing, including income-restricted affordable housing with the goal of having viable housing for everyone especially lower-income residents.” A series of Housing Committee meetings will be held to discuss the proposal throughout the summer and fall of 2024. Additional information will be posted here as the proposal is developed.
/CDD/Projects/Zoning/multifamilyhousing
2016 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2016.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2016pb
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 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
Small Business E-Commerce Grant
Information about the City of Cambridge's Small Business E-Commerce Program. The program provides website and e-commerce assistance to retailers, restaurants, home-based business through grants.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/small...
Limited Equity Cooperatives
Information about limited equity cooperatives, several of which are found in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/coops
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
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
Zoning Ordinance
City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance Text
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Ordinance
Past Projects
Learn how local businesses and business associations used the Boosting Business Blocks Grant (formerly known as the Small Business Challenge).
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/boostingbusinessblocks/sbcw...
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...
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
Storefront Improvement Program
Storefront Improvement Program provides technical and financial assistance to property owners or tenants seeking to renovate or restore commercial building exterior facades.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/store...
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
Belmont - Cambridge - Somerville Path
Learn more about MassDOT's community path project that connects Belmont, Cambridge, and Somerville.
/CDD/Transportation/projects/completedprojects/belmontcambridgesomervillepath
Separated Bicycle Facilities
The term “separated bicycle facility” is generally used to refer to bicycle facilities that follow street alignments but where there is a physical separation between the bicycle travel area and the motor vehicle travel area, often through barriers or grade separation. They are located between the street and the sidewalk, or between the parking lane and the sidewalk and may be referred to as buffered bike lanes, raised bike lanes, cycle tracks, or one-way bike paths.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/bicycling/cycletracks
Zoning Amendments
Proposed Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance currently or previously under consideration, including proposed text and schedule for action.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments
Zoning Maps
City of Cambridge zoning and land use maps
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Maps
Bicycle Parking
Find out more about parking your bicycle in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking
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
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...
Adopted Zoning Amendments
Listing of adopted amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments/adoptedzoningamendments
Past Zoning Amendments Not Adopted
Proposed Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance that were not adopted, either due to being placed on file because the time period for consideration had expired, or due to failure to receive the necessary votes on consideration by the City Council.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments/pastzoningamendmentsnotadopted