Reimagining Carl Barron Plaza: An Investment Into Central Square's Future

Carl Barron Plaza has long been the most significant public gathering space in Central Square. Now, thanks to a substantial planning and investment by the City of Cambridge, this cornerstone of the community is being transformed into a safer, more vibrant, and more welcoming destination.

A Careful, Collaborative Process

The redesign of Carl Barron Plaza and the adjacent MBTA bus terminal is not a quick fix—it’s the result of years of careful planning, technical expertise, and collaboration. City staff worked hand-in-hand with consultants, the Central Square Business Improvement District (BID), and countless community voices to ensure every detail serves both daily users and the broader vision for Central Square.

From the earliest stages, the City emphasized listening to residents and businesses. That feedback shaped everything from the scale of the Plaza to the layout of seating, landscaping, and bus shelters. This attention to community priorities, backed by City resources and staff support, has created a design that balances functionality with artistry.

An Investment in Place and People

The City’s investment in this project is about more than new paving and bus shelters—it’s about creating a Central Square that thrives. The expanded Plaza is designed to ease pedestrian flow, simplify bus transfers, and offer flexible public spaces for everything from casual conversations to major cultural events.

Some of the features made possible by the City’s funding and oversight include:

• Expanded Public Space – The Plaza will be significantly larger, eliminating awkward street crossings and unifying the bus terminal with the heart of the square.

• Modern Amenities – From bottle-fill stations and public Wi-Fi to durable trash and recycling infrastructure, the Plaza is being outfitted for long-term, everyday use.

• Smart Lighting and Surfaces – Energy-efficient pedestrian-scale LED lighting, accessible walkways, and resilient surfacing all reflect the City’s focus on safety and quality.

• Greener Design – The Plaza will feature more than double the existing trees, supported by a sophisticated system of soils, pavers, and irrigation to ensure their long-term health.

The Ribbon: An Icon for Central Square

One of the most distinctive features of the project, “The Ribbon,” reflects the City’s commitment to integrating art into public infrastructure. This sculptural element will wind through the Plaza, uniting its two halves while serving as seating, lighting, and performance space.

In partnership with the Cambridge Arts Council, the City commissioned local artist Sophy Tuttle to design and paint the Ribbon, ensuring it resonates with Central Square’s creative character. It will not only be a functional piece of urban design, but also a symbol of the City’s investment in culture and community identity.

Supporting Transit and Connectivity

The redesign also demonstrates the City’s close coordination with the MBTA to improve the commuter experience. New bus shelters will provide real-time information, protection from the elements, and a dedicated operations workspace for MBTA staff. Meanwhile, the addition of a separated bicycle lane will seamlessly connect River Street’s protected cycle track to existing and planned routes on Massachusetts Avenue.

A Project That Reflects Cambridge Values

Every detail of this project—down to the paving stones and plantings—reflects the City’s broader commitment to accessibility, sustainability, and community-centered design. By investing in Carl Barron Plaza, the City is not just upgrading infrastructure; it is shaping a civic space that reflects Cambridge’s values of innovation, inclusivity, and cultural vitality.

As City leaders put it: “This project reinvigorates the heart of Central Square, creating a place that is safe, welcoming, and fully integrated into the life of our community. It is an investment in people as much as in place.”

When complete, Carl Barron Plaza will stand as a testament to what thoughtful City investment, skilled staff, and dedicated community partnership can achieve: a true public square for all of Cambridge.