Project Area Overview
The Cambridge Street Safety Improvement Project is a transformative initiative focused on enhancing safety and accessibility along Cambridge Street. This vital project area stretches from Oak Street, seamlessly connecting with the ongoing Inman Square project, to Second Street, where it will integrate with the planned O’Brien Highway Reconstruction Project. This strategic location ensures a cohesive and comprehensive approach to improving connectivity and safety within Cambridge.
Connecting with Nearby Projects
This Cambridge Street project is not an isolated effort. It is designed to synergize with several nearby initiatives aimed at boosting pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. By linking with these complementary projects, the Cambridge Street Safety Improvement Project contributes to a broader network of enhanced mobility and accessibility throughout the city.
Bus Stop Modernization and Operational Changes
A key component of the Cambridge Street project is the modernization of bus stops to improve public transportation efficiency and user experience. Each bus stop will be upgraded with a reconstructed sidewalk that extends into the street, creating bus boarding islands. This innovative design allows for level boarding, making it easier for all passengers, including those with mobility devices, to board and alight from buses.
The operational model will also shift, with buses stopping directly in the travel lane instead of pulling into the curb. This change is designed to expedite boarding times and minimize conflicts between bus riders and cyclists, leading to smoother traffic flow and improved safety for all road users along Cambridge Street.
Existing Parking Analysis
To understand the impact of the Cambridge Street Safety Improvement Project, a comprehensive parking inventory was conducted in November 2023. This survey meticulously documented existing parking spaces and regulations on Cambridge Street and extending 300 feet into each adjacent side street.
The analysis revealed that approximately half of the current parking spaces on Cambridge Street will need to be repurposed to accommodate the implementation of protected bike lanes. This adjustment is crucial for creating safer and more dedicated cycling infrastructure, a core objective of the project.
Click here to view the Cambridge Street Parking Map
Cambridge Street Parking Inventory
| Metric | Total Spaces | Westbound Side (North) | Eastbound Side (South) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parking Spaces | 236 | 129 | 107 |
Aligning with the “Our Cambridge Street” Community Vision
The Safety Improvement Project on Cambridge Street is directly informed by the extensive community feedback gathered during the City’s “Our Cambridge Street” planning initiative. This community-driven plan serves as a blueprint for enhancing Cambridge Street to better serve all users. Read the full Our Cambridge Street plan here.
Key goals from the “Our Cambridge Street” plan that are being implemented through this project include:
- Enhancing Pedestrian Experience:
- 9A: Improving pedestrian crossings at intersections to ensure safer and more accessible routes for people walking.
- Streamlining Business Deliveries:
- 10A: Clearly defining and enforcing existing loading zones to improve efficiency for local businesses.
- 10C: Ensuring an adequate number of loading areas are available based on the specific needs of businesses along each block of Cambridge Street.
- Improving Bicycle Infrastructure:
- 12C: Integrating protected bicycle facilities along the entire length of Cambridge Street to create a safer and more appealing environment for cyclists.
- Enhancing Bus and The Ride Accessibility:
- 13: Improving the experience for individuals using bus services and The Ride, ensuring reliable and accessible public transportation options on Cambridge Street.
The Cambridge Street Safety Improvement Project represents a significant step towards realizing the community’s vision for a safer, more accessible, and more vibrant Cambridge Street for everyone.
