Department of Transportation > Getting Around Cambridge > By Transit > Citywide Shuttle and Transit Gap Study

Citywide Shuttle and Transit Gap Study

We are studying Shuttles and Transit Gaps in Cambridge to identify actions to improve local public transit. City staff intend to use community feedback and data to inform our study. We are analyzing travel data to identify gaps in the transit network. The project team will engage Cambridge community members to understand awareness of existing “open-door” shuttles and the ways that they learn about new transportation options. We will also explore opportunities to add new shuttle routes to existing services.

Project Origin

This study is based on recommendations in the Zero Emission Transportation Plan and community feedback. Community members and city staff have identified transportation difficulties and challenges that need further study citywide:

Access to local and neighborhood business districts, especially groceries and local retailers
Access to opportunities like education or employment
Access for tourists and visitors in neighborhood business districts
Transportation for people with disabilities
Affordable transportation options
Decreased access because of street design changes that have reduced on-street parking
Knowledge of available public transportation options
Municipal funding and budget for public transportation is limited

Schedule

April-June 2025

City Council Report and Presentation
Report and presentation to City Council on city staff effort to study shuttles

August 2026 - We are here

Analyze transportation data, policy research, and begin study
Began working with consultants to analyze transportation data and policy research

Late 2026 - We are here

Public survey
Community engagement through surveys to understand perceived service gaps and awareness of private shuttles

Early 2027

Shuttle operators interviews and surveys
Interview shuttle operators to understand current state of shuttles

Early 2027

Focused, in-depth community outreach

Mid 2027

Explore improvements to existing shuttles or new routes

Mid 2027

Create a draft report
Document study work and preview findings.

Mid-Late 2027

Create final report
Document further feedback and findings

Project Updates

November 2026 - Take the CATS Survey

We want to know more about how you travel in Cambridge, where and when you experience public transit gaps, and your shuttle use. Your survey answers and feedback will be used to create our findings and inform study recommendations.

Take the Cambridge Access to Transit and Shuttles (CATS) Survey.

Key Documents and Resources

Presentation to City Council Transportation and Public Utilities, Neighborhood & Long Term Planning - Committee Meeting - June 2025

City staff presented on this study in a hearing at a City Council committee meeting in June 2025.

View the agenda and presentation materials.

View the minutes of this committee meeting.

Zero Emission Transportation Plan

Zero Emission Transportation Plan is the City’s plan that details how the City will achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions while creating a more accessible and equitable transportation system. A specific zero emission plan was created for transportation because transportation is currently a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, with 94% of city emissions coming from private on-road vehicles.

Envision Cambridge

Envision Cambridge is the City's comprehensive plan that guides future growth, housing, transportation, sustainability, and economic development. It establishes long-term goals for creating a more equitable, resilient, and sustainable community.

Transit Strategic Plan

The City's 2015 Transit Strategic Plan outlines the vital role of public transit in Cambridge and details how the City will work to enhance service quality and expand transit capacity.

Parking and Transportation Demand Management Ordinance

Participation in the Parking and Transportation Demand Management Ordinance is triggered when an owner of non-residential property proposes to add parking above the registered number of spaces. All projects subject to the PTDM Ordinance must have an approved PTDM plan before obtaining required permits, including Special Permits, building permits, and occupancy permits. PTDM plans support sustainability by reducing single-occupancy vehicle trips and encouraging transportation options such as walking, biking, transit, and shared mobility.

Vehicle Trip Reduction Ordinance

The Vehicle Trip Reduction Ordinance helps reduce single-occupancy vehicle trips by requiring certain employers to develop programs that encourage employees to use sustainable transportation options, such as transit, biking, walking, and carpooling.