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Members of the Community Safety Department’s CARE Team

Community Safety Department Makes Immediate Impact In Community Following Launch of 9-1-1 Response

The Community Safety Department’s CARE Team launched in 2024, providing an unarmed, compassionate response to mental health crises, well-being checks, and other non-criminal emergencies. By the end of the year, they responded to nearly 200 emergency calls, assisted over 150 community members, and removed 1,600 needles from public spaces, with 94% of calls requiring no police involvement. In collaboration with local organizations and the Cambridge Police Department, the CARE Team also offers case management and referrals, helping residents access shelter, addiction treatment, housing support, and other essential services.

Funding Secured for New Outreach Van to Support Unhoused Community

Opioid Settlement funds have helped enhance and expand street medicine services for the unhoused community, including purchasing a new van.

Cambridge Fire 2024 Emergency Response Numbers at a Glance

In 2024, the Cambridge Fire Department responded to 16,182 emergency incidents, including 1,148 fires, 7,387 medical emergencies, and 237 elevator rescues. Firefighters played a critical role in major local fires, including a tragic 3-alarm fire in North Cambridge and multiple multi-alarm residential fires throughout the year. Cambridge fire companies also provided mutual aid to neighboring communities 196 times, highlighting their dedication to public safety.

Director of Clinical Support Services Published in the Journal of the American Medical Association

Dr. James Barrett, Director of Clinical Support Services for the Cambridge Police Department, co-authored a study published in JAMA Network Open revealing that one in five U.S. adults who die by suicide had spent at least one night in jail in the year prior. The research highlights the need for community-based suicide prevention efforts, particularly post-release. Dr. Barrett’s work with CPD and the Cambridge Health Alliance focuses on supporting individuals with mental health conditions through case management, follow-up care, and a co-response model that pairs clinicians with officers for mental health-related 911 calls.

: Sergeant Lowe (center) and Officer Grassi (left) and Gutoski (right) patrol Harvard Square.

Officers Build Relationships in Harvard and Central Square

The Cambridge Police Department’s Harvard Square/Central Square Unit builds strong relationships with businesses, residents, and associations to enhance safety and trust in these vibrant districts. Officers embedded in the squares work closely with the community to address concerns, fostering open communication and collaboration. Their presence is seen as essential to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment in both squares.

City Manager Yi-An Huang speaks at a podium.

City Manager Huang Proposes Amendments to Vehicle Safety Regulations

City Manager Huang and other local elected officials recently went to Beacon Hill to testify on regulations implementing amendments to the State’s Act to Reduce Traffic Fatalities.

Get To Know Captain Joseph Fournier

Get to know Captain Joseph Fournier in the Cambridge Fire Department! Joseph, a fourth generation Cambridge firefighter in his family, believes that serving the public is at the heart of firefighting.

City Manager Yi-An Huang speaking at a podium under a tent with a banner reading "Just A Start, 52 New Street." He is standing in front of a microphone at an outdoor event. There are listeners seated around him.

City Manager's Message

Hear from City Manager Yi-An Huang on this year’s budgeting process, main priorities in this year’s budget, and the city’s goals for the coming year.

A group of eleven people wearing hard hats and holding shovels participate in a groundbreaking ceremony at a construction site. They are standing on a gravel surface with a backdrop featuring construction fencing and a partially visible sign.

The Most Significant Investments in the FY25 Budget

Review the total consolidated spending by key areas of this year’s budget.

Logistics Behind Major Renovations at Cambridge Fire Headquarters

During the Fire Headquarters renovation, expected to be completed in 2026, firefighters will move into Station 10, a temporary fire facility located at 15 Hovey Avenue (across from Spaulding Hospital) and administration staff will relocate to 23 Bay Street.  

Public Safety

Cambridge Fire Department Brings Back In-House Fire Academy to Fill Vacancies More Quickly

In October, Cambridge Fire Department launched an intensive 11-week Cambridge Fire Academy, incorporating the principles of the Massachusetts State Fire Academy, but using its own certified fire instructors to enable more recruits to participate and to fill open positions 12 months sooner than normal.

Call 988 Three Digits for Individuals Experiencing Suicidal Crisis and Emotional Distress

Trained counselors, who are not clinicians, are available to provide free, confidential emotional support to all callers. 988 can also be used by an individual who is worried about a loved one and not sure how to support that person or where to get them help.

Diagram of the Cambridge Alternative Response Program

Q&A on Cambridge’s New Community Safety Department with Director Christina Giacobbe

This new department will help support Cambridge’s most vulnerable residents by providing an alternative, non-public safety response to non-violent, and behavioral crisis calls.

Cambridge Police Officer Mike Padua and Nelson

How Crisis Intervention Training for Cambridge Police is Making a Difference & A Story About Nelson

Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) can play a critical role in a safer outcome for all.

Cambridge Police Department is pursing a gold standard in accreditation.

Commitment to Public Safety

The City Council approved a budget of $2.8 million for the creation of a Department of Community Safety (CDCS) that will coordinate community driven solutions to enhance safety and wellness through key services and programs targeted at our most vulnerable populations. CDCS will oversee the Cambridge Alternative Response Program and other efforts to supplement Cambridge Public Safety agencies in making the community a safer place to live, work, and experience for all.

Young Adult Diversion Program Offers Alternative to Criminal Prosecution

Diversion allows a young person the opportunity to complete an individually-tailored program in lieu of prosecution and may include conditions such as educational programs, counseling, community service, working with housing, letters of apology, and restitution.

Expanding Advanced Life Support Services

Cambridge Fire Department (CFD) will hire eight firefighters in FY23 to expand the delivery of Advanced Life Support, (ALS) or Paramedic service, to the community.

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