City of Cambridge
Cambridge, Massachusetts
A vision, master plan, zoning, and guidelines to shape more than 12,000,000 square feet of mixed-use development into an integrated community, where a highly diverse mix of people live, work, shop, study, and conduct research.
Recognition
American Planning Association, Massachusetts Chapter--2001 Award for Comprehensive Planning
Project Highlights
Community frustration with the rapid spread of single-use buildings in Kendall Square--a major research district next to MIT and the heart of the Boston region’s biotech research economy--led to a citywide growth moratorium that froze 12,000,000 square feet of development.
Strategy
Prepare a communitywide vision, supported by a detailed master plan, zoning, and other implementation strategies. Ensure that development contributes tangibly to reintegration and livability in eastern Cambridge by focusing on:
- a mix of uses;
- transportation management;
- incentives that promote retail space;
- housing affordability; and
- creation of parks.
Over two years, a series of community workshops and charrettes, as well as close collaboration with an appointed study committee, transformed community opposition into support for 12,000,000 square feet of new development—now with a community-enhancing mix of uses and design character.
Community members strongly supported the final plan, including new zoning, guidelines, and a transportation plan. Planning Board and City Council adopted it.