Cambridge Street Code
A Revised Street Code is Coming
Our city looks a lot different than it did five years ago. The City of Cambridge has installed several new miles of protected bike lines, new dedicated bus lanes and stops, and other infrastructure to help all people move more safely in our city. To reflect those changes, the City will soon be releasing an updated Street Code. This document helps educate all users of the road about rules, etiquette, and how to get around town safely. The new version will be released in the summer of 2023.
The Street Code is a resource for everyone. 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. Simple!
The Street Code is made up of five main sections: Rules of the Road, Reduce Risk: Be Alert, Reduce Risk: Be Predictable, Responsibility, Respect Others. Check it out and take a look at the visuals demonstrating how to use the various different kinds of infrastructure on the streets in Cambridge!
Let’s give each other a break, be a little more patient, and remember that we are all trying to get somewhere safely. With more people biking and walking and with a constant flow of new students, new drivers, and new cyclists, it’s important to remember these main themes of the Street Code.
- Slow down. The faster you travel, the higher the risk of crash and death. Is beating that yellow light really worth injuring someone, losing your job, or going to jail? Take a breath and slow down.
- Put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Imagine what it would feel like to be in their position. Don’t assume the worst. Maybe they don’t know the rules and norms of the road. Maybe they looked, but didn’t see you. Be the person you want to see on the streets.
- It’s not about you. It’s about all of us. We are all trying to safely get somewhere. Let’s go out into the world trusting that we can come back alive and uninjured.
We hope you enjoy!
For More Information
For more information on the Cambridge Street Code, please contact Miguel Perez Luna at 617/349-4671 or mperezluna@cambridgema.gov.
For more information on Vision Zero, please contact Brooke McKenna at 617/349-4723 or bmckenna@cambridgema.gov. You can also visit www.cambridgema.gov/visionzero.