The Community Development Department is the planning agency for the City of Cambridge.

The Community Development Department is the planning agency for the City of Cambridge. Our mission is to foster a livable, sustainable, just, and equitable community. We work to enhance the character and diversity of the city's neighborhoods, preserve and increase affordable housing, create and promote accessible and sustainable mobility, build environmental resilience, and support sustainable economic growth. Through these initiatives, we strive to enrich the lives of residents, expand their opportunities, and contribute to a healthy urban environment. CDD takes an interdisciplinary approach to manage and guide evolution of our urban environment in a manner consistent with the City’s priorities. We engage and collaborate with community partners, other government agencies, businesses and residents to make Cambridge a desirable place to live, work, learn, play, and innovate. Learn more about the Department.

Features

News and Announcements

  • Cambridge Kiosk Will Open May 30

    The historic kiosk in the center of Harvard Square will reopen as The Cambridge Kiosk and will serve as a community gathering space and visitor information center.

  • Drafts Available for FY26 One Year Action Plan and NRSA

    Draft Versions of the City's FY26 One Year Action Plan / FY26-30 Consolidated Plan and Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area (NRSA) are Available for Review and Comment.

  • FY2026 HUD Grants Public Comment Drop-In Session

    On Thursday, May 29 4-6pm in the City Hall Annex 2nd Floor Conference room, there will be a Public Comment Drop-In Session for the Utilization of FY26 HUD Grants managed by the Community Development Department, Housing Department and Department of Human Service Programs

  • 52 New Street

    52 New Street, a new, affordable, rental apartment building, will begin accepting applications for a resident lottery on July 1

  • 2025 Legacy Business Award Winners

    The City of Cambridge proudly launched National Small Business Month today with the Cambridge Legacy Business Luncheon, an event dedicated to honoring some of the community's most enduring local enterprises.

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