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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
First-Time Homebuyer Lottery Opportunity - 1055 Cambridge Street
There are 3 affordable condominiums available for sale at 1055 Cambridge Street. The Community Development Department will hold a lottery to select buyers for the available units.
/CDD/News/2024/3/firsttimehomebuyerlotteryopportunity1055cambridgestreet
Development Log
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks larger-scale residential and commercial development projects.
/CDD/developmentlog
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
Worried About Rising Energy Costs? Request a Free Energy Assessment
Learn about ways to save energy this winter with a no-cost home energy assessment.
/CDD/News/2022/11/freemasssaveassessment
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
Cambridge Clean Heating and Cooling - Community Workshop
Learn about Cambridge's newest initiative for clean heating and cooling, to help you save energy and money.
/CDD/Calendar/2019/10/03/cambridgecleanheatcommunityinfosession
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
Pedestrian Committee
The Cambridge Pedestrian Committee works to create a more comfortable, safe, and pleasant environment for walking in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/forthepublic/pedestriancomm
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
Recent Data Updates
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks large-scale residential, commercial and institutional development projects currently in the permitting or construction phases in the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2023/4/dataupdates
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
New Development Log Available - 2022 Q4
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks large-scale residential, commercial and institutional development projects currently in the permitting or construction phases in the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2023/3/newdevelopmentlogavailable2022q4
New Development Log Available - 2023 Q2
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks large-scale residential, commercial and institutional development projects currently in the permitting or construction phases in the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2023/7/developmentlogavailable2023q2
New Development Log Available - 2023 Q3
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks large-scale residential, commercial and institutional development projects currently in the permitting or construction phases in the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2023/11/developmentlogavailable2023q3
New Development Log Available - 2022 Q3
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks large-scale residential, commercial and institutional development projects currently in the permitting or construction phases in the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2022/11/newdevelopmentlogavailable2022q3
New Development Log Available - 2024 Q1
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks large-scale residential, commercial and institutional development projects currently in the permitting or construction phases in the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2024/5/newdevelopmentlogavailable2024q1
New Development Log Available - 2023 Q4
The Development Log, published quarterly, tracks large-scale residential, commercial and institutional development projects currently in the permitting or construction phases in the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/News/2024/3/newdevelopmentlogavailable2023fourthquarter
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
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
Members Sought for Cambridge Pedestrian Committee. Application Deadline 10-30-23.
The Cambridge Pedestrian Committee works to create a more comfortable, safe, and pleasant environment for walking in Cambridge, and promotes walking as a means of transportation, for health, and for enjoyment.
/CDD/News/2023/9/pedestriancommitteevacancyapplicationdeadline103023
Housing Profile
Housing profile providing information through 2010, as available, about housing sales costs, condominium conversions and market rents, including some information by neighborhood.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/H/housingprofile2010
Rooftop Mechanicals Task Force Recommendations
2003 report evaluating visual and acoustic issues relating to placement of commercial mechanical equipment, particularly on rooftops in large-scale new development.
/CDD/publications/alphabeticaldocumentfolders/R/rooftoprecs2003
For Owners of City Assisted Affordable Homeownership Units
Information for current owners of City Assisted Affordable Homeownership units.
/CDD/housing/forhomeowners/cityassistedowners
Cambridge Extends Historic Renewable Energy Opportunity to Residents, Businesses
As a result of a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA), a new solar farm is being built in Illinois and Cambridge will receive credits for making new renewable energy available to the grid.
/CDD/News/2024/12/cambridgeextendshistoricrenewableenergyopportunitytoresidents,businesses
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
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
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...
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
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
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
Retail Interior Accessibility Program
This page describes the City of Cambridge' retail interior accessibility grant program.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/retai...
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
Walking Maps
Maps for each Cambridge Public School with recommended walking routes to school.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/saferoutestoschool/saferouteswalkingmaps
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
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
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Learn about how the city of Cambridge tracks greenhouse gas emissions.
/CDD/climateandenergy/greenhousegasemissions
Home Energy Efficiency Tips to Cut Costs and Your Carbon Footprint
Watch Boston 25's segment on Energy Efficiency.
/CDD/News/2019/8/energyefficiencytips
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
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...
Sign Up for the Small Business Coaching Program
The Small Business Coaching Program offers eligible Cambridge business owners free, one-on-one coaching from industry experts.
/CDD/News/2023/3/signupforthesmallbusinesscoachingprogram
Rules of the Road
Learn about the rules of the road in Massachusetts, whether you drive, bike, or walk.
/CDD/Transportation/rulesoftheroad
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
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
Urban Cycling Basics Workshop
Learn the rules of the road for biking in an urban setting.
/CDD/Calendar/2017/04/04/urbancyclingbasicsworkshop
Riding With Families Workshop
Learn the basics of riding a bicycle as a family.
/CDD/Calendar/2017/04/04/ridingwithfamiliesworkshop
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
Inclusionary Housing Program for Developers
The Inclusionary Housing Program requires developers of certain projects to provide afforadable housing units.
/CDD/housing/fordevelopersandpropmanagers/inclusionarydevelopers
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
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
Digital Marketing
Learn how to make money selling your goods and services on the Internet.
/CDD/Calendar/2016/03/10/digitalmarketing
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...
Traffic Signals
The City's traffic signals are timed with pedestrians in mind.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/Walking/trafficsignals
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
New and Current Bicycle Projects
Information about new bicycle projects in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/newbikeprojects
Storefront Improvement Program Form
Cambridge property owners or tenants can access technical and financial resources to renovate or restore commercial building exterior facades through the Storefront Improvement Program. The Program improves the physical appearance of independent businesses and enhances Cambridge's commercial districts.
/CDD/Forms/Forms/S/storefrontimprovementprogramform
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...
Safety
Safety tips for Motorists and Bicyclists in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Safety
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
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
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
Ebikes
Information on ebikes
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/ebikes
Green Building/Zoning Task Force
The Green Building and Zoning Task Force analyzed various approaches and to encourage energy efficient building practices.
/CDD/Projects/Planning/greenbuildings
ARPA Grant Reimburses Cambridge Businesses and Non-Profits for New Energy Efficient Equipment and Operations
Eligible businesses will receive financial assistance in the form of reimbursement for the purchase of eligible equipment that makes their business operations or building more energy efficient, reduces their use of fossil fuels, or that provides renewable energy to power their operations.
/CDD/News/2024/8/arpagrantreimbursesbusinessesandnonprofitsfornewenergyefficientequipment
Zoning and Development
CDD provides professional support on matters related to zoning policy and urban design, and to the work of the Cambridge Planning Board.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment
Zoning
The Cambridge Zoning Ordinance is the municipal regulatory framework that controls urban development in the city.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning
Guides, Permitting & Business Resources
This page includes Step by Step business guides, lists city departments that have resources for businesses, and other resources.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/permittingresources
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
Walk Ride Day Corporate Challenge Kick-off
Join us as we kick off the 2017 Walk/Ride Day Corporate Challenge
/CDD/Calendar/2017/04/28/walkridedaycorporatechallengekickoff1
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
Bishop Allen Apts. (formerly Norstin Apts.)
Bishop Allen Apartments, (formertly called Norstin Apartments) consists of properties near the corner of Norfolk St and Bishop Allen Drive. Four buildings contain 32 units of affordable housing.
/CDD/Projects/Housing/bishopallennorstin
Other Permitting Resources
List of other Cambridge departments responsible for different types of development permitting.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Resources/otherpermittingresources
Designing for Pedestrians
The pedestrian realm includes sidewalks, open space, courtyards, and walkways--mostly public space, but private spaces as well.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/byfoot/Walking
Commonwealth Avenue Bridge Replacement Project Pre-Construction Public Meeting
Commonwealth Avenue Bridge Replacement Project Pre-Construction Public Meeting
/CDD/Calendar/2017/07/13/commonwealthavenuebridgereplacementprojectpreconstructionpublicme...
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
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
Harvard Square Advisory Committee Meeting
A meeting of the Harvard Square Advisory Committee.
/CDD/Calendar/2024/11/20/harvardsquareadvisorycommittee20241120
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
Shop at Cambridge Small Businesses This Holiday Season
This holiday season, Cambridge partners with local businesses and business associations to encourage residents and visitors to shop local.
/CDD/News/2024/10/shopatcambridgesmallbusinessesthisholidayseason
Healthy Parks and Playgrounds
Information about the City of Cambridge Healthy Parks and Playgrounds initiative.
/CDD/parks/osplanning/healthy
City of Cambridge Food Truck Program
The City of Cambridge Food Truck Program is designed to provide entrepreneurial opportunities for food truck operators, provide more diverse food options in targeted areas, and bring additional street level amenities to Cambridge public spaces.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/foodb...
Free Business Financial Literacy Workshops
Cambridge Community Development Department partners with Cambridge Savings Bank to offer a four-week Financial Education Program for entrepreneurs.
/CDD/News/2025/8/financialeducationworkshopseriesforsmallbusinessesbycambridgesavingsbank
Free Financial Education Course for Cambridge Businesses
The City is partnering with Cambridge Savings Bank (CSB) to offer a four-week Financial Education Program for Cambridge entrepreneurs.
/CDD/News/2023/1/freefinancialeducationcourseforcambridgebusinesses
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
Small Business Financial Education Program
4 week online training program with Cambridge Savings Bank
/CDD/News/2024/10/smallbusinessfinancialeducationprogram
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
Mediation Services
Mediation Services is a professional mediation, dispute resolution and education service program based in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forrenters/mediationservices
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...
Inclusionary Housing for Property Managers
Information for property managers of inclusionary housing projects.
/CDD/housing/fordevelopersandpropmanagers/manageinclusionary
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
New Development Log Available - 2025 Q3
Review the latest version of the Cambridge Development Log
/CDD/News/2025/10/newdevelopmentlogavailable2025q3
New Development Log Available - 2025 Q1
Review the latest version of the Cambridge Development Log
/CDD/News/2025/4/newdevelopmentlogavailable2025q1
New Retail Playbook Workshop Series Launches for Small Business
The New Retail Playbook is an online training series designed to help main street retailers understand how they can grow their business' online presence.
/CDD/News/2025/4/newretailplaybookworkshopserieslaunchesforsmallbusiness
New Development Log Available - 2024 Q4
Review the latest version of the Cambridge Development Log
/CDD/News/2025/1/newdevelopmentlogavailable2024q4
New Development Log Available - 2025 Q2
Review the latest version of the Cambridge Development Log
/CDD/News/2025/7/newdevelopmentlogavailable2025q2
New Development Log Available - 2024 Q3
Review the latest version of the Cambridge Development Log
/CDD/News/2024/11/newdevelopmentlogavailable2024q3
New Development Log Available - 2024 Q2
Review the latest version of the Cambridge Development Log
/CDD/News/2024/7/newdevelopmentlogavailable2024q2
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
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
Cambridge Riverfront Plan
The Cambridge Riverfront Plan suggests ways to improve connections from the neighborhoods to the Charles River
/CDD/Projects/Planning/Riverfront
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
Neighborhood Demographics
Docmuents with demographic data covering the thirteen neighborhoods of Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/populationdata/neighborhoodemographics
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
Funding for the Trust
The Cambridge Affordable Housing Trust receives significant financial support through the Community Preservation Act. The Affordable Housing Trust also benefits from funds generated by the City’s Incentive Zoning Ordinance. harvard also provided low-interest loan funds for affordable housing.
/CDD/housing/housingtrust/trustfunding
Zoning Ordinance
City of Cambridge Zoning Ordinance Text
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Ordinance
Eligibility Guidelines
Eligibility Guidelines for CDBG funded Workshops.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/eligi...
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
Central Square Advisory Committee Vacancies
The Central Square Advisory Committee (CSAC) is a group of community members with direct relationships to Central Square in Cambridge who review development proposals and planning projects that impact Central Square.
/CDD/News/2024/7/centralsquareadvisorycommitteevacancies
Allston I-90 Intermodal Interchange Improvement Project
Allston I-90 Interchange Improvement Project
/CDD/Projects/Transportation/i90interchangeimprovementproject
Bus Stops, Shelters, Benches, and Amenities
Bus shelters are located at bus stops throughout the city by the MBTA, JCDecaux and the City of Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms/busshelters
Pedestrian Plan
Reviews elements of the Cambridge Pedestrian Plan
/CDD/Transportation/programs/currentprograms/pedestrianplan
2016 Planning Board
Planning Board Agendas, Transcripts and Hearing Notices from 2016.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/planningboard/planningboardmeetings/2016pb
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
Recent Data Updates
Recent data updates including new Neighborhood Profile report, a new housing data page, 2023 Q2 update to the rent tracker dashboard and several more.
/CDD/News/2023/8/recentdataupdates
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
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
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
October is National Women's Business Month
The City of Cambridge will celebrate National Women’s Business Month during October to recognize the importance of women-owned businesses and highlight the women entrepreneurs who contribute so much to the local Cambridge economy.
/CDD/News/2023/9/octoberisnationalwomensbusinessmonth
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
Limited Equity Cooperatives
Information about limited equity cooperatives, several of which are found in Cambridge.
/CDD/housing/forhomebuyers/coops
Zoning Maps
City of Cambridge zoning and land use maps
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Maps
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
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
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
About the Department
About the Cambridge Community Development Department
/CDD/aboutthedepartment
Older Bicycle Facility Projects
Older Bicycle Facility Projects
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/newbikeprojects/olderbikeproje...
Small Business Enhancement Program
Information about the City of Cambridge's Small Business Enhancement Program. The program provides equipment and marketing assistance to retailers, restaurants, home-based business through grants.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/smallbusinessprograms/small...
Other Data Sources
Other data sources for statistical analysis and research.
/CDD/factsandmaps/othercitydatasources
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
October is National Women's Business Month
The City is celebrating National Women's Business Month this October to recognize the importance of women-owned businesses and to highlight the women entrepreneurs in the local Cambridge economy.
/CDD/News/2022/9/octoberisnationalwomensbusinessmonth
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...
Reports & Presentations
Statistical profiles, reports, and presentations contained here summarize a variety of information about Cambridge.
/CDD/factsandmaps/reportsandpublications
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
Central Square Advisory Committee Call for Members
The Central Square Advisory Committee (CSAC) is a group of community members with direct relationships to Central Square in Cambridge who review development proposals and planning projects that impact Central Square.
/CDD/News/2023/5/centralsquareadvisorycommitteevacancy
Foreclosure Resources and Assistance
Resources for homeowners who are concerned about foreclosure.
/CDD/housing/forhomeowners/foreclosureassistance
Business and Labor Force Data
Cambridge business and labor force data.
/CDD/factsandmaps/economicdata
Construction Starts on Greater Cambridge Energy Program, Including Only Underground Substation of its Kind in the U.S.
Eversource, City Officials and other representatives today broke ground on construction of the Greater Cambridge Energy Program (GCEP), a first-of-its-kind transmission initiative to address the increased electric demand in the region,
/CDD/News/2025/1/constructionstartsongreatercambridgeenergyprogram
Womens Business Month
The City of Cambridge will celebrate National Women's Business Month during October to recognize the importance of women-owned businesses and highlight the women entrepreneurs who contribute so much to the local Cambridge economy.
/CDD/News/2024/9/womensbusinessmonth
History of Comprehensive Planning
From 2016 to 2019, the city undertook a process, Envision Cambridge, which resulted in a series of recommendations guiding the City to a more sustainable and equitable future by the year 2030.
/CDD/planud/masterplan/growthpolicy
Zoning Amendments
Proposed Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance currently or previously under consideration, including proposed text and schedule for action.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments
Bicycle Parking
Find out more about parking your bicycle in Cambridge.
/CDD/Transportation/gettingaroundcambridge/bikesincambridge/Parking
344 Broadway City Hall Annex Building Profile
Green building information about the renovation of the historic Cambridge City Hall Annex at 344 Broadway, the first LEED-Gold municipal building in Massachusetts.
/CDD/climateandenergy/municipalsustainability/344broadway
Business Development Workshops
This page describes the variety of business development workshops that the City of Cambridge offers.
/CDD/economicopportunityanddevelopment/smallbusinessassistance/Workshops
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...
Urban Design
What is urban design? This term means different things to different people.
/CDD/planud/urbandesignprimer
Adopted Zoning Amendments
Listing of adopted amendments to the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance.
/CDD/zoninganddevelopment/Zoning/Amendments/adoptedzoningamendments
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
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