Cambridge Street Code

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2023 Street Code

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. The Cambridge Street Code addresses these new changes and helps educate all users of the road about rules, etiquette, and how to get around town safely.

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 visitors, new drivers, new travelers, and new people on bikes, it’s important to remember these main themes of the Street Code.

1. Slow down. The faster you travel, the higher the risk of crash and serious injury. Slowing down is worth it because it’s safer for everyone.

2. Put yourself in someone else's shoes. Imagine what it would feel like to be in their position. Maybe they are new to the city and are still learning where things are. Maybe they need more time crossing the street than you might. Perhaps they are new to driving or cycling in the city and are nervous. Be patient and considerate of others.

3. We are all in this together. It’s about all of us. We are all trying to safely get somewhere. When we all do our part, we can go out into the world and move around safely and comfortably

We hope you enjoy!

See below for translated versions. 

Amharic - 2023 Street Code

Arabic - 2023 Street Code

Bangla - 2023 Street Code

Chinese - 2023 Street Code

Haitian Creole - 2023 Street Code

Portuguese - 2023 Street Code

Spanish - 2023 Street Code

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.