2020 CCJ Notes - May through August
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Covid-19 Cambridge Testing Collaborative

Cambridge's Disease Detectives Aim to Break the Chain of Covid-19 Transmission

Aug 30, 2020 – Hundreds of Cambridge residents have learned they were infected with COVID-19 or had been exposed to the new coronavirus after getting a call from public health nurses from the Cambridge Public Health Department (CPHD). Thousands more have received calls from CPHD staff informing them of negative test results.

The phone calls are part of a massive behind-the-scenes effort to stop the chain of transmission of COVID-19.

The public health nurses lead a team that reaches out to every infected resident—also known as a case—providing them with support and guidance on how to isolate. They also try to identify and connect with everyone the person was in close contact with while infectious, a process known as contact tracing. The team checks in frequently with cases and contacts in isolation or quarantine, making sure they have enough food and other necessities, are monitoring their health, and are taking precautions to protect others in their household.

“The vast majority of residents have conscientiously and often cheerfully assisted us in this communicable disease investigation work during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Shamsher Bam, RN, interim lead of the department’s public health nursing program.

The department’s public health nurses have extensive experience in case investigation and contact tracing, a specialized field that requires a mix of medical knowledge, detective skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to listen to and gain trust of people who may be reluctant to cooperate. When COVID-19 cases surged in April, the department recruited CPHD school nurses, recently retired CPHD public health nurses, and outside staff from the Commonwealth’s Community Tracing Collaborative to join the team.

The Community Tracing Collaborative (CTC) is assigned the more straightforward cases, while the health department handles the complex cases, which include residents in long-term care facilities, hospitalized patients, infected health care workers, patients over 70, and patients believed to be infected through a cluster event.

By early August, the two teams had reached out to over 1,200 positive cases, which was split among CPHD (around 75% of cases) and the CTC (around 25% of cases). CPHD identified about 470 contacts with Cambridge residents, and the CTC identified about 250 contacts with Cambridge addresses.

Learn more about the Commonwealth's CTC.

The fences are coming down and the roads are opening up in Lafayette Square

Residents Sought for Board Vacancy on Cambridge Human Rights Commission

Aug 24, 2020 – City Manager Louis A. DePasquale is seeking a resident to fill a vacancy on the Cambridge Human Rights Commission.

The Cambridge Human Rights Commission seeks Cambridge residents representing the diversity of Cambridge. Commissioners are expected to attend monthly meetings, participate in subcommittees on outreach and public education, and work with Commission staff on the investigation, mediation and resolution of complaints filed with the Commission which allege discrimination in housing, public accommodations, employment or education based upon race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin or ancestry, sexual orientation, gender, marital status, family status, military status or source of income.

The Human Rights Commission is made up of 11 members who serve three-year terms. Meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month at 6:00pm.

The deadline for submitting applications is September 25, 2020. Applications can be submitted to City Manager Louis A. DePasquale using the City’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available by calling the City Manager’s Office at 617-349-4300. For more information, contact Nancy Schlacter, Cambridge Human Rights Commission, at 617-349-4396 or nschlacter@cambridgema.gov.

Members Sought for Port Infrastructure Project Working Group

July 23, 2020 – The City of Cambridge is seeking volunteers to serve on a new Working Group to help guide the Port Infrastructure Project. The group will advise Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale and his staff on key issues related to the planning and design for this important project.

The project consists of over $35 million in improvements to sewer, drainage, water, street, sidewalk, and open space infrastructure in The Port. The neighborhood is vulnerable to flooding, and climate change is increasing the risk of flooding due to more frequent, short, very intense rainstorms. This project will reduce the frequency and severity of stormwater flooding and sewer backups in the neighborhood, and upgrade the neighborhood’s surface infrastructure, including streets, sidewalks, shade trees, landscaping, and open spaces.

The main components of the Project are:

• PL6 Stormwater Tank: Stormwater tank at City Parking Lot 6 (PL6) off of Bishop Allen Drive. This element of the project is currently under construction, with work expected to conclude near the end of 2020.
• Clement Morgan Park Tanks: Underground stormwater and sanitary sewage tanks will be constructed in the area of the basketball courts, which will be restored at the completion of the Project. Important issues for the Working Group to advise on include:
  • How/where can the basketball court be relocated during construction?
  • Should other permanent changes be made to the design and features of Clement Morgan Park during construction?
• Utilities: Significant construction in neighborhood streets will be needed to ensure that stormwater and sewer pipes are in good repair, properly sized, and conveying their flows to the new underground tanks described above. We will also take the opportunity to bring other public and private utilities such as water and gas into a state of good repair. A number of these utilities are more than 100 years old and need to be replaced.
• The Working Group will help advise us on issues including:
  • How can we minimize disruption to residents, businesses, and community institutions during this phase of the work?
• Resiliency and Urban Forestry: In conjunction with ongoing Citywide planning efforts, the Project will implement features to reduce the impacts of Climate Change in The Port, including stormwater flooding and “urban heat island” effects. The Working Group can help us strategize on engaging property owners and all community members about this innovative and important aspect of the project.
• Complete Street Design: The streets, sidewalks and other public spaces in the Project Area will be reconstructed as part of the project. This presents an exciting opportunity to do more than simply repair and replace deteriorated asphalt, brick, and concrete. Working with the community, we can also incorporate street trees, green infrastructure, traffic calming, improved crosswalks, shared street elements, improved lighting, artwork, and street furniture including seating and play elements.

The Working Group will play a critical role in helping the city engage the overall community to determine what changes neighbors would like to see as streets and sidewalks are reconstructed.

The Working Group will consist of 10 to 15 members who will meet regularly for a period of 12-18 months, starting in fall 2020. Individuals with interest in The Port and a desire to work with city staff and neighbors on this critical project are encouraged to apply. Meetings of the Working Group will be open to the public.

For additional questions about the new Working Group, contact Jerry Friedman, Supervising Engineer, Department of Public Works at 617-349-9720 or jfriedman@cambridgema.gov.

Individuals interested in being considered should apply by using the city’s online application system at cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and résumé or summary of applicable experience can be submitted during the online application process. Paper applications are available in the City Manager’s Office at Cambridge City Hall, 795 Massachusetts Avenue. The deadline for submitting applications is Fri, Sept 18, 2020.

Aug 10, 2020 (Mass. DOT) – On Friday, the Massachusetts Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration took the next step in the environmental review process under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for the I-90 Allston Multimodal Project by releasing the Scoping Summary Report (SSR) for the project. The full document (including appendices totally over 450 pages) is available in its full form for download on the project website: https://www.mass.gov/doc/national-environmental-policy-act-review-scoping-summary-report-i-90-allston-multimodal-project/download

The Scoping Summary Report serves several purposes in the NEPA process. The Scoping Summary Report documents the opportunities provided for public comment during the scoping process and provides responses to some frequently received comments. Most importantly, the SSR lays out the key elements that will ultimately be used to define the “preferred” version of the I-90 Allston Multimodal Project: a set of alternatives proposed to be carried forward into the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) and a statement of the project’s purpose and need and set of selection criteria that will be used to compare those alternatives and decide on a “preferred” alternative.

All of the “build” alternatives in the SSR that are being carried forward into the DEIS process are multimodal and make transformative changes to the portion of the project on the former Beacon Park Yards. All include:

• a new Turnpike interchange and street grid;
• a new multimodal West Station that provides four tracks, three platforms and an express track to serve current and future Worcester Main Line and future Grand Junction rail service as well as buses; and
• Bicycle and pedestrian improvements including an at-grade bicycle and pedestrian connection to the Charles River and its parks and a wider Paul Dudley White path which separates cyclists and pedestrians.

There are three different options carried forward for the area known as the “throat”, each suggesting a different approach:

• Build a new I-90 Viaduct to carry the Turnpike, one that is further from the Charles River and does not require any construction in the River either during construction or permanently;
• Put Soldiers Field Road on a new viaduct and I-90 at grade, requiring construction in the Charles River but leaving no permanent infrastructure in the River; or
• Eliminate any viaduct and put all rail tracks and roadways at- or below-grade, an alternative that requires construction in the Charles River and leaves some infrastructure in the River permanently.

All of these are carried as “build” alternatives, meaning that they fulfill the purpose and need of the project as defined in the SSR. The SSR also carries forward what is called a “no build” alternative, an option that does not meet the project’s purpose and need but does involve re-building the existing, structurally deficient viaduct. Instead of building the multimodal project, MassDOT would replace the deck of the I-90 Viaduct in Allston where it currently exists and leave all other transportation infrastructure in their current alignment. This No Build option would simply reconstruct the viaduct and would not include the construction of a new West Station or Paul Dudley White bicycle and pedestrian path.

The next NEPA document produced after the SSR is the Draft Environmental Impact Statement and so there is no specific public engagement or stakeholder process that occurs at this point in the NEPA process. MassDOT, however, welcomes and expects a continued discussion of this vital infrastructure project as we move to the next phase of the process. MassDOT will spend the next 30 days compiling additional information to better inform this fall’s focus on comparing the three “throat” options against each other and the project purpose and need and selection criteria. We will release this information and hold additional public meetings in September.

Plan Ahead for Moving Out [and other news from Cambridge Recycling]

Our trash multiplies at move-out season, but with your help we can reduce how much is going to landfill and save precious natural resources. Here are some helpful tips:

• Electronics, Clothing/Textiles, and Metal are highly recyclable, but not in your curbside recycling. Use the Get Rid of It Right tool to look up where to dispose of these and hundreds of other items.
• Fluorescent Bulbs, Oil-Based Paint, Chemicals, Non-Alkaline Batteries and more are toxic and must be kept out of the trash. Several items have convenient disposal options, while others must be brought to a Household Hazardous Waste collection. Check the Get Rid of It Right tool.
• Schedule collection in advance. Many items, such as TVs, A/Cs, and mattresses require scheduling and sometimes a payment for disposal. The collection schedule can fill up quickly, so schedule early. NOTE: If the city collects your trash, you may set-out one piece of furniture per week. No scheduling is needed.
• Find a new owner for your stuff.
  • Sell or post items online: Freecycle, Craigslist, NextDoor, Buy Nothing Cambridge (on Facebook).
  • Donate good-condition items. Many second-hand stores are not accepting donations due to COVID, but you may try Goodwill or Habitat for Humanity.

Recycle Center Open Saturdays Only
As a reminder, the Recycle Center at DPW is open on Saturdays only. This policy will continue indefinitely. The hours are 9am-4pm. Visit our website before visiting us at Public Works.

Household Hazardous Waste Day: Aug 22, 2020
The next HHW event is Saturday Aug 22, 9am-1pm at 65 Waverly Street. For directions, what to bring, and COVID-19 preparations please visit our website.

Compost Update
We received more than 550 requests for compost bags last month! It was a bit more than we expected and we may have missed delivering bags to a few of you. If you filled out the form and didn't receive compost bags, email us.

As a reminder, while curbside compost remains suspended, please see below for drop-off compost options currently available. [View Drop-Off Locations]

Small Business Recycle Program Expansion
The Small Business Recycling Program is expanding! Beginning November 1, 2020, up to 125 more small businesses may be added to the program. Since the program started in Fall 2018, more than 500 tons have been diverted from small businesses in Cambridge. See here to read more about the program or to apply.

Upcoming Waste Events

• Sat. 8/22: Hazardous Waste Event for residents, 65 Waverly St, Cambridge.
• Wed 9/9: Virtual Recycling Advisory Committee (RAC) meeting.
• Sat. 11/7: Hazardous Waste Event for residents, 50 Mooney St, Cambridge.

If you know of any other waste-related events, email us so we may broadcast!

What Are We Reading?

15 Recipes for Leftover Veggies [CookieandKate.com]

How to Buy Clothes That Are Built to Last [NY Times (paywall)]

Korean Vegan Meat Made From “Ugly Produce” Debuts In The US [VegNews.Com]

How a retired New York City garbage man collected 45,000 ‘treasures in the trash’ [Yahoo!]

Cyclist Fatality in Harvard Square

Aug 18, 2020, CPD – Units from the Cambridge Police, Cambridge Fire Department, and Massachusetts State Police are on-scene conducting a crash investigation following a fatal motor vehicle crash involving a tractor-trailer and bicyclist in the area of the Harvard Square T Station. Unfortunately, the bicyclist has died as a result of the crash. The crash occurred at approximately 9:42am.

Commuters should expect delays in the area and seek alternative routes.

The Middlesex District Attorney's Office will provide further details as they become available. [Cambridge Chronicle story]

Sept 1 CPD Update (Twitter): The victim of the fatal crash involving the operator of a tractor-trailer and a bicyclist in the area of Harvard Square MBTA Station has been identified as Darryl Willis, 55. Per @DAMarianRyan, the investigation remains active. No charges have been filed at this time.

Aug 18, 2020 – You have a number of voting options if you are a registered voter in Cambridge:
Mail-In Voting, Early Voting, Absentee Voting, and Election Day voting

If you applied for a mail-in ballot, you may choose to (a) mail it using the envelope provided; (b) drop it off at the Ballot Drop Box at 51 Inman Street (see below); (c) or drop it off at one of the three Early Voting Sites (Aug 22-Aug 28 - see below).

If you plan to vote in person, please be aware of the necessary safety precautions. Your options are Early Voting (see below) or at your precinct's polling place on Election Day. Please be aware that 14 polling locations have been changed for this year's elections (see below).

You may also apply for an absentee ballot (see below).

CITY OF CAMBRIDGE
BOARD OF ELECTION COMMISSIONERS

BALLOT DROP BOX HOURS

Every Day from 8:00am - 8:00pm
51 Inman Street

Voters: please note that you must deposit your ballot in the drop box
by Tuesday, September 1 by 8:00pm in order for it to be counted.

You may also deposit your ballot into a drop box at any Early Voting Site
at the following locations during early voting hours:

Moses Youth Center - 243 Harvard Street Main Entrance
Cambridge Water Department 250 Fresh Pond Pkwy.
Valente Library, 826 Cambridge Street Side Entrance (on Berkshire St.)

Early Voting Schedule:
Saturday, August 22: 2:00pm - 8:00pm
Sunday, August 23: 9:00am - 3:00pm
Monday - Friday, August 24 - 28: 9:30am - 5:00pm

Election Day Voting
All 34 Precincts will be open from 7:00am to 8:00pm for in person voting on September 1, 2020.

For more information please visit the Cambridge Election Commission website at:
www.cambridgema.gov/election
or call 617-349-4361

THANK YOU!

Ballot Drop Box w/Joyce Gerber

Note: If you submitted an application for a mail-in ballot and have not yet received it, you can check the status at:
https://www.sec.state.ma.us/wheredoivotema/track/trackmyballot.aspx

Cambridge Election Commission Announces Temporary Relocation of 14 Polling Sites in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic

Aug 13, 2020 – In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to protect the safety of Cambridge residents, voters, and election staff, the Cambridge Election Commission has announced that Cambridge polling sites located in high-risk facilities will be temporarily relocated for the upcoming 2020 State Primary and General Election.

If a voter’s polling site has been relocated, the new polling location will be based in the same ward and precinct or near their regular polling place. Additionally, signage will also be posted at the regular polling site to help direct voters to their temporary polling sites.

In the next few weeks, Cambridge voters will receive an Early Voting Guide and a Voter Notification Card via the U.S. Postal Service. Voters are strongly encouraged to read both documents, as they contain information pertaining to any relocated polling places and other critical election-related information for the 2020 fall elections. This information is also available via an Interactive Polling Place Map and Polling Place PDF on the City’s website.

As a reminder, in order to vote on Election Day, you must be registered. To check voter registration status , and to find information on how to register to vote, visit the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website: www.registertovotema.com. If an individual needs to register to vote, they may do so online. A license, or an I.D. issued by the Registry of Motor Vehicles is required to apply online. To be eligible to vote in the State Primary on September 1st, residents must register to vote or make any necessary changes to their voter registration by the deadline of Saturday, August 22nd at 8 p.m.

All voters will be asked to wear a face mask or covering and to practice physical distancing in the polling sites on Election Day to help minimize public health risks.

Additional information and updates related to COVID-19 and voting can be found on the City’s website at www.cambridgema.gov/covid19/voting.

Revised List of Cambridge Polling Places

Fine Free Pilot Program

Aug 10, 2020 – The City of Cambridge is pleased to announce a pilot program at the Cambridge Public Library to eliminate overdue fines for the late return/renewal of materials and the elimination of loss/damaged item fees for children's and young adult's materials. The elimination of Library fines will ensure equitable access to the great resources offered by the Library.

"The Cambridge Public Library is a critical source for books and online resources for our residents,” said Louis A. DePasquale, Cambridge City Manager. “Now more than ever, we need to ensure that all members of the public have easy access to our library services.”

Cambridge Public Library has long been fine free for children’s and young adult materials. The new pilot will extend that policy to late adult materials and to lost or damaged children’s and young adult materials. The Library has not been assessing any fines during the COVID-19 health crisis. The one-year pilot will officially begin when library services return to normal post-COVID to allow for a review period.

Research has shown that low-income families identify fines as a barrier to their use of libraries and that there is no significant difference in overdue rates between libraries that charged fines and those that did not. Fines and fees also disproportionately impact low-income families and neighborhoods. In January 2020, fines and fees in excess of $10 led to over 5,700 patrons being blocked from library use in Cambridge.

“Our public libraries serve a vital role for our residents, particularly for our vulnerable communities," said Cambridge Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui, “We know that these fines provide a barrier to low-income families and disproportionally affect low-income neighborhoods. By removing these fines, I am hopeful that all of our residents can enjoy the magic of books at Cambridge public libraries without the fear of overdue fines.”

“Our strategic plan calls on us to reduce barriers to access and take intentional action to create more equitable outcomes for the community members we serve,” stated Dr. Maria McCauley, Director of Libraries. “I am excited that the Library, with the leadership of the City Council and City Manager, is embarking on this significant step in support of access, equity and inclusion.”

The Library will continue to assess and collect fees for lost or damaged items from the adult collection and fines specifically related to our agreements with other libraries outside of Cambridge, such as the Commonwealth Catalog and Interlibrary Loan programs.

About the Cambridge Public Library:
At the Cambridge Public Library, we welcome all, inspire minds and empower community. We support a Cambridge where everyone has equitable opportunities to learn, people live their best lives, and democracy thrives. During the Covid-19 health crisis we are offering a variety of programs and services. See https://cambridgepl.libguides.com/virtual.

City of Cambridge to Relocate Temporary Emergency Shelter at War Memorial Recreation Center to 1575 Cambridge Street
New East Wing Emergency Shelter at Spaulding Hospital will open following renovations

Aug 10, 2020 – Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale announced today that the City of Cambridge has entered into an agreement with Spaulding Hospital-Cambridge, Inc. to create a City-funded temporary emergency homeless shelter in the east wing of the facility located at 1575 Cambridge Street.

This new temporary 57 bed shelter will replace the shelter currently located at the War Memorial Recreational Center and will serve as an adult homeless shelter for non-COVID-19-infected guests. The first and second floors of the presently empty east wing will undergo renovations to prepare the site for the new temporary shelter which is expected to open in November.

The War Memorial emergency shelter, which opened in April 2020, helped the City address the urgent needs of Cambridge residents who were experiencing homelessness during the rapidly evolving COVID-19 public health crisis that emerged this spring. The shelter was built with three distinct services areas, which included a quarantine area, isolation area, and shelter area for non-symptomatic persons experiencing homelessness who do not have access to day or overnight services. The Commonwealth of Massachusetts now provides quarantine and isolation facilities, and only the shelter for non-COVID-19 infected guests is currently being operated at the War Memorial site.

“The War Memorial location was highly desirable due to its extensive space, proximity to the Cambridge Hospital, and ability to be quickly converted into a shelter. However, this space was always intended to be temporary and returned to the school department for academic use,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “I want to thank Spaulding Hospital for leasing the City part of its facility on Cambridge Street so that we can relocate the temporary emergency shelter from the Cambridge Rindge and Latin School campus. I want to especially recognize and thank Maureen Banks, President, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Cambridge and David Storto, President, Spaulding Rehabilitation Network. Their commitment to this initiative and the Cambridge community were critical to reaching a successful agreement that will allow the City to continue supporting our most vulnerable populations for the duration of the pandemic.”

“We have enjoyed a high degree of cohesiveness and community safety during operations of the War Memorial emergency shelter and we look forward to a seamless transition to Spaulding Hospital, where we remain committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure we maintain the highest overall levels of community safety,” said Cambridge Police Commissioner Branville G. Bard, Jr.

The War Memorial emergency shelter was set up to allow existing shelters to reduce overcrowding to make guests in all of Cambridge's shelters safer and to provide a site that guests who were leaving the shelters could move to. The War Memorial also provided important shelter for guests who had been served by seasonal shelters that were closing such as the Warming Center and Harvard Square Homeless Shelter.

“We are grateful to Bay Cove Human Services and to Healthcare for the Homeless who have provided a high level of services to our homeless guests and who will be continuing to provide the onsite services as the emergency shelter moves to Spaulding,“ said Assistant City Manager Ellen Semonoff.

As part of the agreement between the City and Spaulding Hospital, the first and second floors of the east wing located at 1575 Cambridge will be leased, renovated and converted into a shelter space by the City. The City of Cambridge will fund the entirety of the shelter operation. This project is CARES Act funding eligible and the City expects to submit approximately $ 3.4 million for reimbursement to support this critical initiative. The City Manager and Commissioner of Public Health have issued an emergency order temporarily suspending enforcement of the Cambridge Zoning Ordinance at Spaulding Hospital to allow the space to be used as a homeless shelter.

“By continuing to provide a Temporary Emergency Shelter for Cambridge residents experiencing homelessness, we will help prevent the spread of COVID-19 among our most vulnerable residents,” said Dr. Assaad Sayah, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Cambridge. “The more we can do to keep all residents safely distanced, regardless of where they call home, the greater chance we have to prevent increased illness due to this epidemic.”

As this new initiative gets underway, the City will be creating a dedicated webpage, phone number, and email address to respond to community questions or concerns. For more information and updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.

Cambridge Election Commission Announces Mail-in and In-person Voting Options, Temporary Relocation of Polling Sites, and Designated Early Voting Locations, Dates and Hours for the State Primary

Aug 10, 2020 – In order to provide increased voting options in response to COVID-19, House Bill 4820 was passed and signed into law as Chapter 115 of the Acts of 2020 “for the immediate preservation of public health and convenience.” Accordingly, early voting is available to all voters for the State Primary, September 1st and the State/Presidential Election, November 3rd. Early voting is available by mail and in person to all registered voters and no excuse is required.

To vote by mail, all you need to do is:

1. Complete a Vote by Mail Application; you can download an application at www.MailMyBallotMA.com;
2. Applications can be sent by: email to elections@cambridgema.gov, mail to Election Commission, 51 Inman Street, Cambridge, MA 02139, or fax to 617-349-4366
3. Vote when your ballot arrives;
4. Return your ballot to the Cambridge Election Commission by mail or in-person. The Election Commission is open to the public by appointment only.

The deadline to submit a Vote by Mail application for a mailed ballot for the primary is Wednesday, August 26th by 5:00pm.

The deadline to return a Vote by Mail ballot is September 1st by 8:00pm in order to be counted.

To vote in-person, visit any of the three (3) early voting locations offered in Cambridge during the period of Saturday, August 22nd to Friday, August 28th for the State Primary. You must be a registered voter in Cambridge to vote at the early voting locations. Please refer to the city’s designated early voting schedule below.

The deadline to vote early in-person is Friday, August 28th at 5:00pm.

Please be advised that once a voter has cast an early voting ballot, the voter may no longer vote at the polls on Election Day.

City of Cambridge Designated Early Voting Locations, Hours and Days

Moses Youth Center – 243 Harvard Street, Main Entrance

Cambridge Water Department – 250 Fresh Pond Parkway

Valente Library – 826 Cambridge Street, Side Entrance on Berkshire Street

The Election Commission office located at 51 Inman Street will NOT be an early voting location for the State Primary, September 1st. Voters must go to one of the designated early voting locations listed above.

Additional Voting Options

Voting on Election Day will still be available for those who may want to vote at the polls. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, some polling sites like those in high-risk facilities were temporarily relocated for the upcoming 2020 State Primary, September 1st. Your temporary location will be in the same ward and precinct or near your regular polling place to provide voter convenience and to minimize voter confusion. In the next few weeks, voters will receive an Early Voting Guide and a Voter Notification Card. Both will have information pertaining to any relocated polling places and other important election related information. Signage will also be posted to help voters find their temporary polling sites.

For anyone wanting to vote early in-person, vote by mail or vote on Election Day, the first step is making sure you are registered. To check to see if you are registered to vote, and to find information on how to register to vote, you may visit the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s website: www.registertovotema.com. If you need to register to vote, you may do so online. You a license, or an I.D. issued by the Registry of Motor Vehicles to apply online. To be eligible to vote in the State Primary, September 1st, you must register to vote or make any necessary changes to your voter registration by the deadline of Saturday, August 22nd at 8:00pm.

Whenever possible, we ask voters to wear a face mask or covering in the early voting locations and on Election Day at the polling sites and adhere to social distancing requirements to help mitigate public health risks. In addition, hand sanitizer will be available for use by voters upon entering and exiting the voting area. We encourage all our citizens to exercise their right to and take advantage of the voting options available.

Community Members Invited to Comment on Proposed Expanded Network of Shared Streets

During the month of July, the City collected ideas from community members about which streets should or shouldn't be Shared Streets. On August 4, 2020, a second community webinar was hosted to provide details about the streets that the City is proposing to add to the network based on the feedback we received. You can view the proposed additions and share your feedback via the Cambridge COVID-19 Street Changes Map. A list of Street Changes is available for people who cannot access the map. The City will be collecting feedback on the proposed network through August 17, 2020. Learn more here.

Ribbon-Cutting at Starlight Square - August 7, 2020

Matthew Boyes-Watson

Michael Monastime

Peter Valentine and Jason Weeks

City Manager Louis DePasquale and Peter Valentine

Chris Hope, Peter Valentine, Jason Weeks

Unidentified woman, City Manager Louis DePasquale, Chris Hope, Peter Valentine, Jason Weeks, E. Denise Simmons

 
Joseph Naggar and Morris Naggar

Cambridge Water Department to Perform Routine Functionality Test of MWRA “Emergency” Interconnects

Aug 4, 2020 – The Cambridge Water Department announced today that it will be conducting a routine functionality test for the emergency Massachusetts Water Resource Authority (MWRA) Interconnects. During this test, which will occur the week of August 10th, water from the MWRA will be introduced into the Cambridge water system.

“The Cambridge Water Department services approximately 113,000 residents, and our mission is to provide a safe, uninterrupted water supply of the highest quality to the residents of Cambridge,” said Sam Corda, Managing Director. “While Cambridge has its own water supply, we are fortunate to have the ability to use MWRA water as a backup to our water supply should the need arise. While the last such usage was in 2018, periodic functionality tests are a critical part of maintaining our water infrastructure.”

The action of introducing MWRA water into our system during the testing period may cause some slight water discoloration due to water flow direction reversal. While the water is safe to drink, the Cambridge Water Department recommends running tap water until it is clear. Additionally, residents are advised to check water before doing laundry because discolored water may stain clothes. This can be resolved by running the cold water for several minutes prior to doing laundry.

Functionality tests are performed to ensure that MWRA water can be readily turned on if the City requires it to supplement the Cambridge water supply, either for routine purposes or emergency purposes. For this exercise during the week of August 10th, the Cambridge Water Department will open the valve from the MWRA water supply for approximately 20 hours.  MWRA water will flow through this connection at nearly 8,300 gallons per minute, totaling about 9 million gallons of MWRA water being introduced into the Cambridge water system. Once the test is completed, the valve will be closed, and the Cambridge Water Department will resume using water from the City-owned water system.

The Cambridge water system is comprised of the watershed, including the Hobbs Brook, Stony Brook, and Fresh Pond Reservoirs; the Stony Brook conduit; the Walter J. Sullivan Treatment Plant; the Payson Park finished water reservoir, and Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) interconnects. To learn more about the Cambridge Water Department and the Cambridge water supply, visit www.cambridgema.gov/cwd.

Residents or businesses with questions or concerns can contact Edward Dowling, Director of Water Operations at edowling@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4773.

City of Cambridge Amends Temporary Emergency Restrictions on Public Meetings and Events through September 7, 2020

July 30, 2020 – The City of Cambridge today announced that all City-sponsored community events, athletic events, events permitted for the use of City parks, or other City-sponsored public gatherings will be cancelled through September 7, 2020, or postponed to a later date. All prior approvals for events or gatherings are revoked.

City sponsored youth sports activities that take place in City parks or other City athletic facilities are permitted, subject to obtaining a City permit, and further subject to complying with all COVID-19 requirements and guidelines concerning youth sports issued by the State, which include but are not limited to requirements concerning social distancing, hygiene protocols, staffing and operations, and cleaning and disinfecting.

The meetings of the Board of Zoning Appeal, Conservation Commission, Historical Commission and Neighborhood Conservation Commissions, License Commission, Planning Board, Pole and Conduit Commission and Election Commission are authorized to be held. Meetings will continue to be held virtually by utilizing web based technology that will stream audio and video – whenever possible -- of the meeting. All meetings will allow for remote participation by the members of the public body. All other public meetings of City committees, advisory groups, community meetings and the like shall remain cancelled and postponed until a later date, unless a meeting is determined necessary by the City.

All meetings of the City Council, including City Council Committee meetings, and all other City public bodies, boards and commissions that are governed by the state Open Meeting Law and transact official City business, other than quasi-judicial public bodies, boards and commissions, will follow the procedures defined in the City’s Amended Temporary Emergency Restriction on City Public Meetings, City Events, and City Permitted Events due to COVID-19, which is available on the City’s website.

Members of the public are reminded that they should maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from non-household members and should wear face coverings while outdoors.

The above temporary restrictions will remain in effect until September 7, 2020, or until further modified by the City Manager.

For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.

City of Cambridge Announces Free Bluebikes Passes for Grocery, Pharmacy, Restaurant, and Retail Workers

July 30, 2020 – The City of Cambridge, in partnership with the municipalities of Boston, Brookline, Everett, and Somerville, announced the availability of free Bluebikes passes to essential workers employed at grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants, and local retail shops. Passholders will be able to take as many trips as they like during a 90-day period.

Workers at any grocery store or pharmacy located in Boston, Brookline, Cambridge, Everett, or Somerville are eligible for the passes. In addition, people employed at restaurants and retail shops located in Boston and Cambridge are eligible as well. Most of the small business districts across Cambridge and Boston are served by Bluebikes, and workers can pick up a bike near their homes and park it at a station near work, without having to worry about maintenance or carrying a lock.

Bluebikes provides a great way for anyone to take short trips across the region, and this program will help make riding even more accessible to some of the most critical workers in the community.

Passes are good for 90 days from the date of registration and riders can take unlimited trips up to 60 minutes each without incurring additional fees. At the end of the 90-day pass, riders will need to proactively register for a new pass and will not be automatically charged to renew. Those interested and eligible can register at www.CambridgeMA.gov/bluebikes.

Many hospitals and healthcare facilities in Cambridge are also corporate members of Bluebikes. Healthcare workers can check the Essential Workers section of the website above to see if their employer is listed. If your employer is not listed, contact bluebikes@cambridgema.gov or call 617-349-4671 to learn about discounted membership options.

Starlight Square (The Square in the Square) in Central Square is Taking Shape

Michael Monestime & Patrick Barrett - Masked Marauders Making Starlight Square Happen

Cambridge to Expand Small Business Recycling Program

July 28, 2020 – The City of Cambridge announced the expansion of the Small Business Recycling Program beginning November 1, 2020. A pilot program, which offered free curbside recycling collection to 125 businesses, was successfully launched in November 2018.

“I am so pleased to be able to expand this free curbside recycling program, which is great way to support our small businesses and help them reduce their waste,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “It also aligns with our overall goals to reduce trash and greenhouse gas emissions in Cambridge."

Small businesses with less than 50 full time employees are invited to apply for the program. An additional 125 businesses will be added through this expansion. Selected businesses will receive free collection of up to 3 recycle carts twice per week. The collection service and the carts are provided by the City of Cambridge at no cost to the selected businesses.

The City of Cambridge will be hosting an online public forum to answer questions about the Small Business Recycle Program on Monday, August 10 at 1 pm. Register here.

To apply, fill out an application here by September 9, 2020. The City will notify selected businesses by October 9, 2020.

For more information, contact Deb Albenberg, dalbenberg@cambridgema.gov.

Cambridge City Manager and Commissioner of Public Health Amend Temporary
Emergency Order Preventing the Use of Reusable Bags at Retail Establishments
Reusable bags allowed effective on July 25; 10 cent fee on establishment provided bags resumes on August 10.

July 23, 2020 –  Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale and Commissioner of Public Health Assaad J. Sayah, MD announced today amendments to the March 23, 2020 temporary emergency order that restricted customers at retail establishments from using reusable bags after purchasing retail products because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the amended order, customers are permitted, effective on Saturday, July 25, to bring reusable bags to retail establishments for use at checkout. Until August 10, retail establishments are prohibited from charging the required fee of 10 cents for each recyclable paper bag or compostable plastic bags provided by the retail establishment.

Beginning August 10, the city’s mandatory 10 cent fee for recyclable paper bags or compostable plastic bags provided to the customer at the point of sale, and all provisions of Cambridge’s “Bring Your Own Bag” ordinance will be in effect. The city’s ban on single use plastic bags has always remained in place.

“The City of Cambridge takes deliberate and measured steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, protect our community, and reopen the city in a controlled manner,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “The Cambridge community cares deeply about recycling whenever possible and I am pleased to see reusable checkout bags returning to our retail environment. As a city, we move cautiously in our public health decisions and utilize our Expert Advisory Committee to understand the potential impacts on new or modified public health measures and guidance. The community’s compliance with these measures have made a difference in Cambridge, and we will continue to use data and expert advice to inform our strategies to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Our goal is to protect the health and wellbeing of our residents.”

The city encourages consumers to frequently wash, sanitize, or disinfect their reusable bags. Additionally, the city recommends that employees placing items in reusable checkout bags for customers wear disposable gloves as an additional safety measure. All retail establishments are required to comply with the Commonwealth’s Sector Specific Workplace Safety Standards.

View the full emergency declaration on the COVID-19 Website.

The City of Cambridge and the City’s Public Health Department continue to work closely together to identify resources to reinforce the city’s response and preparedness activities. For more information and updates on COVID-19, please visit the city’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.

City of Cambridge Amends Emergency Temporary Eviction Enforcement Order
and Creates Requirements for Showings of Occupied Dwelling Units

July 23, 2020 – Today, Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale and Commissioner of Public Health Dr. Assaad J. Sayah announced amendments to the city's emergency order establishing a moratorium on eviction enforcement and issued new requirements for all real estate showings of occupied dwelling units by property owners and their agents. The amended order applies to both residential and commercial evictions, continues the prohibition of the forcible eviction of tenants within the City of Cambridge, and is in effect until further notice. This order provides for the health, safety, and stability of those who live in and serve our community.

“Protecting the health and safety of our residents remains the number one priority in our evolving public health directives and guidance,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “Evicting residents and commercial tenants during this ongoing pandemic is not aligned with our public health strategies or our community’s standards. This amended order also recognizes the need to provide a safe framework for real estate and rental showings in the City of Cambridge.”

Under the new requirements issued in today’s order, real estate showings of occupied dwelling units can now occur if specific guidelines are followed. Tenants at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19 or age 65 or older have the option to decline showings. The new requirements include:

1. Notice of the real estate showing shall be given to all occupants of a dwelling unit at least 24 hours in advance.
2. All visitors shall wear face coverings while on the property and social distancing shall be followed.
3. All visitors shall either use hand sanitizer immediately prior to entry to the dwelling unit or must put on a new pair of disposable gloves.
4. Visits to the dwelling unit shall only take place between 9am and 6pm, unless another time is mutually agreed upon by the tenant or occupant.
5. In an effort to limit the number of showings, agents shall be allowed to enter the property to measure for floor plans, and to take photos and/or video for a maximum of up to 2 hours. This may be broken up into 2 visits of one hour each. Only those professionals doing the work shall be allowed to enter with the agent.
6. In addition to the agent, showings are limited to no more than 3 prospective tenants or buyers at a time.
7. Rental showings are limited to 15 minutes and there shall be no more than 3 per day if they are in succession. If they are not in succession, showings shall be limited to 2 per day.
8. Sales showings are limited to 30 minutes and there shall be no more than 3 per day if they are in succession. If showings are not in succession, they will be limited to 2 per day. Home Inspections will be limited to no more than 90 minutes inside the property.
9. Bathrooms shall not be used when visiting a dwelling unit unless written permission (including via text or email) is obtained from the occupants of the dwelling unit.
10. Owners and tenants are strongly advised to vacate the dwelling unit during visits to minimize exposure and maximize the ability for everyone to social distance. If an owner or tenant must remain in the dwelling unit, they must wear a face covering.
11. Visitors may not touch anything in the dwelling unit, including light switches, doors or cabinets. Agent shall arrange with occupants as to whether doors and cabinets will be left open and lights turned on by the occupant or the agent. Use of handrails, or bannisters on stairs are exempt from this requirement.

As a reminder, the Eviction Moratorium does not prevent property owners from filing eviction actions, but it does prevent property owners and landlords from carrying out a forcible eviction. The Eviction Moratorium does not protect tenants from eviction once the city determines that the public health emergency no longer exists. Therefore, tenants and homeowners should continue to make payments or work out payment plans with their landlords or lenders.

View the full emergency declaration on the COVID-19 Website.

The City of Cambridge and the City’s Public Health Department continue to work closely together to identify resources to reinforce the city’s response and preparedness activities. For more information and updates on COVID-19, please visit the city’s dedicated information page: Cambridgema.gov/covid19.

Random Observations - July 20, 2020

So today there is scheduled a meeting of the City Council's Government Operations, Rules and Claims Committee on the topic of the possible extension of City Manager Louis DePasquale's contract. The current contract goes through January 8, 2021, but if the City Council intends to renew his contract they must give written notice to Mr. DePasquale on or before September 14, 2020. With only next week's Midsummer Special Meeting scheduled for the full City Council prior to the September 14 Regular Meeting, there is some urgency in getting the question of a contract extension settled soon. Then again, according to the City's Plan E Charter all it takes is 5 votes and the City Council could approve a contract extension at any meeting without any need for an extensive process. In a City whose politics lean toward processing things to death, we would naturally expect a nationwide or interplanetary search for the nonexistent "perfect candidate," but considering the pandemic and the long service and undeniable competence of Louis DePasquale, this hardly seems the time for such a perfectly pointless process. Unless, of course, you are into revolutions for the sake of revolutions, and there are two, perhaps three, city councillors who likely fit that description.

Meanwhile there's a letter being circulated by the Cambridge Residence Alliance (CResA), a coffee klatsch centered on Ashburton Place with a satellite location on Norfolk Street, that expresses outrage with Mr. DePasquale's job performance based on such things as not closing Memorial Drive (which the City does not control) when the City Council squeezed out a bare majority to request the closure. They are also horrified at the fact that the City has yet to again allow reusable plastic bags at retail establishments even though the Governer has said that the Commonwealth will now permit it. The most substantial objection is based on the City Manager's reticence to fully support municipal broadband - though, in fairness, his caution is based entirely on financial reasons. The CResA wants the City Council to grant only a one-year contract extension (due to the pandemic, of course) after which they expect the City Council to scour the cosmos for that mythical perfect candidate.

More to come.... randomly, of course. - RW

City of Cambridge Launches $1.5 Million COVID-19 Housing Stabilization Program
Providing short term financial assistance to Cambridge residents experiencing housing instability

July 16, 2020 – The City of Cambridge announced today the creation of a COVID-19 Housing Stabilization Program to provide short-term financial assistance to individuals and families in Cambridge who are experiencing housing instability due to the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This program represents the City’s second phase of COVID-19 related financial assistance for housing-related needs,” said City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “I am incredibly proud that we are expanding our efforts to help residents who need housing assistance. Through this new program, the City will provide $1.5 million in direct support to help individuals and families who are facing housing instability due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The program will subsidize eligible households whose rent, condominium fees, or cooperative carrying charges are more than 40% of their income at the time of application. Qualified applicants will receive a two-month subsidy for the amount by which their housing cost exceeds 40% of the household’s current income.

The program will be administered jointly by the City Manager’s Office through the Office of the Housing Liaison, the Department of Human Services Programs through the Multi-Service Center, and the Community Development Department.

Applicants are encouraged to apply for the COVID-19 Housing Stabilization Program online beginning July 20, 2020. The online application form can be accessed at www.cambridgema.gov/housingfund. Additionally, applicants who are unable to complete an application online may call 617-349-9797, starting July 20, 2020, to request assistance completing an application over the phone. Staff will make the best efforts to return calls within 3 business days.

To be eligible for the COVID-19 Housing Stabilization Program:

• Applicants must be Cambridge residents.
• Applicants must be Cambridge Tenants or Owners of a limited equity co-op or a home purchased subject to long term affordability restrictions administered by the City or other public agency. Since mortgage holders can apply for a forbearance, these funds will assist only with condominium or cooperative carrying charges.
• Applicants’ total household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) at the time of application ($67,400 for a1 person household, $77,000 for a 2 person household, $86,650 for a 3 person household, $96,250 for a 4 person household, $103,950 for a 5 person household).
• Applicants must demonstrate that their housing costs (condo fee, cooperative carrying charge, or rent) are more than 40% of their gross household income, at the time of application.

For additional information on submitting applications to the Housing Stabilization Program, visit www.cambridgema.gov/housingfund.

The City is committed to identifying new resources to help residents and businesses navigate this difficult time. For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.

2019 Cambridge Resident/Visitor Parking Permits to Expire August 15, 2020
Residents should submit renewal applications as soon as possible.

July 14, 2020 – The City of Cambridge announced today that all 2019 Resident and Visitor Parking Permits will expire on Saturday, August 15, 2020. After this date, vehicles without 2020 Parking Permits will receive tickets when parked in areas designated “Parking by Permit Only.” Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Cambridge had previously been extending the expiration date of 2019 Resident and Visitor Parking Permits.

Residents who still need to renew 2019 Parking Permits can renew online, by mail, or in person. Applications submitted online or by mail must be sent in before July 31 to ensure time for processing and mailing. In order to be eligible for a Parking Permit, residents must:

Pay any outstanding parking tickets; Supply proof of residency (one utility bill that shows the name and the Cambridge service address or two pieces of mail that show the name and Cambridge address) that is dated within the previous 30 days; and If applying for a Resident Parking Permit, ensure that the name and address on the registration match the proof of residency, the vehicle is registered in Massachusetts, and the registration has a garage code of Cambridge.

Residents should visit CambridgeMA.Gov/Parking-Permits, email tpt@cambridgema.gov, or call 617-349-4700 to review eligibility requirements and find more information about how to renew online, by mail, or in person. The Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Department is open by appointment only, Monday-Thursday from 9:00am-5:00pm and on Fridays from 9:00am-noon.

The City of Cambridge is committed to identifying new resources to help residents and businesses navigate this difficult time. For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the city’s dedicated information page https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.

IQHQ plans office, lab campus near Cambridge’s Alewife station (July 8, 2020 - Boston Business Journal)
"GCP Applied Technologies has sold its 26.5-acre Cambridge headquarters campus to California-based IQHQ Inc., a life-science focused real-estate developer, for $125 million — a deal that could spark a wave of future office and lab development." ..... "It’s not clear how much IQHQ could build in Alewife Park, a large site located directly adjacent to the MBTA's Alewife Station on the Red Line. But the company is planning “a premier scalable office and laboratory campus in a renowned center for innovation,” Tracy A. Murphy, IQHQ’s president, said in a statement."

Featured recent stories in the Cambridge Chronicle (the paper of record) - with some comments:

If you would like to subscribe or pick up a free paper copy at various sites, I encourage you to do so. It really is The Paper of Record.

Cambridge reopens outdoor activity areas (June 29, 2020)

Charles River Conservancy, Northeastern University announce floating wetland project (June 24, 2020)

Cambridge announces street changes for outdoor dining (June 24, 2020)

Previous owner of Vail Court continues ‘extremely aggressive’ litigation against City of Cambridge (June 23, 2020)

Cambridge councilors call for review of police property, systemic racism across departments (June 23, 2020)

Patrick Ewing talks racism, basketball and being part of greatest team at Cambridge Rindge (June 23, 2020)

Cambridge City Council votes to hold off on filling police department vacancies (June 16, 2020)

Opinion: GUEST COLUMN: In defense of the Cambridge Police Department (June 12, 2020 by Cathie Zusy)

More than 100 reports made to Cambridge police regarding fireworks in past month (June 12, 2020)

Cambridge announces dog parks, tennis courts have reopened (June 12, 2020)

Frustration boils over as Cambridge officials revisit idea of defunding police (June 11, 2020)

Hundreds call for defunding Cambridge Police after five hours of public comment (June 9, 2020)

Cambridge Finance Committee votes to adopt 2021 school budget (June 9, 2020)

Cambridge encourages residents to ‘Pick it Up Cambridge’ (June 8, 2020)

Cambridge police officers now required to intervene if fellow officer uses ‘unreasonable force’ (June 8, 2020)

Gov. Baker says Phase 2 in Massachusetts will begin Monday (June 6, 2020)

Cambridge urges residents to be cautious as city reopens (June 4, 2020)

Protests, virus leave state in ‘balancing act’ (June 3, 2020)

Cambridge announces Shared Street pilot (June 2, 2020)

Restaurants reopening: Starting with outdoor dining and ‘abundance of caution’ (June 1, 2020)

Restaurant relief bill on move in the House (June 2, 2020)

Cambridge councilors back Rep. Pressley’s call for better police oversight (June 2, 2020)

Cambridge amends temporary emergency restrictions on public meetings, events (June 2, 2020)

Cambridge updates two temporary emergency orders (June 2, 2020)

Cambridge Fire still investigating 3-alarm blaze that displaced 20 in the Port (June 2, 2020)

OP-ED: Cambridge Police commissioner responds to George Floyd’s death (June 1, 2020)

Lot 5 in Central Square Closing Temporarily for the Creation of Starlight Square
Closure begins on Tuesday, July 21

July 16, 2020 – The City of Cambridge announced today that Lot 5 in Central Square, located at the corner of Bishop Allen Drive and Norfolk Street, will close for public parking beginning on Tuesday, July 21.

The Central Square Business Improvement District will be transforming Lot 5 into Starlight Square, a temporary venture that will include an outdoor amphitheater with physically-distant seating, a courtyard for dining and dialogue, a community center for summer learning and food distribution, and the Central Square Farmers Market. The lot will be closed for parking through the late fall.

Residents and visitors coming to Central Square have numerous alternative parking options, including; on-street meters, the Green Street Parking Garage located at 260 Green Street, Lot 4 located at the intersection of Bishop Allen Drive and Essex Street, and Lots 8 and 9 located at the intersection of Green Street and Pleasant Street.

The Central Square Farmers Market will continue to operate on Mondays, from 12-6pm, within Starlight Square.

For information on public parking options in Cambridge, visit www.cambridgema.gov/traffic/Parking.

City of Cambridge’s Temporary Emergency Order Preventing the Use of Reusable Bags at Retail Establishments Remains in Effect

July 14, 2020 – The City of Cambridge announced today that the temporary emergency order restricting customers at retail establishments from using reusable bags after purchasing retail products remains in effect until further notice.

While the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ Commissioner of Public Health rescinded the state’s reusable bag prohibition on July 10, neither staff at Cambridge retail establishments nor their customers are permitted to bag retail products using customers’ reusable bags at checkout. There will continue to be no fees associated with retail establishment bags.

This temporary emergency order, which was originally adopted on March 23, 2020, was one of the early proactive steps that the City of Cambridge took to help slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect retail staff and consumers. Reusable checkout bags that have not been sufficiently disinfected may potentially contribute to the spread of COVID-19 at retail establishments.

Cambridge is deeply committed to recycling items whenever possible, however, at this time, the city believes its ban on the use of reusable bags at retail establishments is an important step to continue minimizing the spread of COVID-19 in our community.

View the full emergency March 23, 2020 declaration.

The City is committed to identifying new resources to help residents and businesses navigate this difficult time. For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the city’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.

City of Cambridge and Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Awards $3.6 Million in Grants and Loans to Support Small Businesses

July 13, 2020 – Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and City Manager Louis A. DePasquale announced today that the City of Cambridge Relief and Recovery Programs, the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund for small businesses, and the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA) Zero-Interest Loan program is distributing nearly $3.6 Million to Cambridge small businesses financially impacted by the COVID-19 public health crisis.

“We are proud to have been able to expand the use of Mayor’s Disaster Relief Funds and other City funding sources to support Cambridge businesses, and want to thank every individual and business who donated to help support their community in this time of need,” said Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and City Manager Louis A. DePasquale in a joint statement. “Additionally, by working with the CRA, we expanded financial assistance available to small businesses across the city. We appreciate the CRA’s commitment to our small business community, and the CRA Board’s ongoing dedication to the Cambridge Community.”

Money was distributed via three different programs involving $500,000 from the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund, $1.5 Million from the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Zero-Interest Loan program, and a combined $1.6 Million from Community Development Block Grant Funds and Federal CARES Act Funds administered through the City of Cambridge Relief and Recovery Programs.

Qualifying businesses were eligible to receive grants of up to $10,000 to assist with rent, salaries, utilities and cost of goods which will not have to be repaid. The grant criteria prioritized businesses that have been more severely affected by the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority Zero-Interest Loan program , administered in cooperation with Cambridge Savings Bank, is providing loans of up to $15,000 to small businesses that have qualified to participate in the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund.

In total, the City of Cambridge received over 550 applications for these programs and provided more than 440 grants and loans to assist Cambridge businesses. More than 65% of the recipients are women, minority, or women and minority owned businesses.

The City is committed to identifying new resources to help residents and businesses navigate this difficult time. For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.

Phase III of Reopening Massachusetts Set to Begin on July 6

The Baker-Polito Administration today announced that on July 6th, Phase III of the Commonwealth’s reopening plan will begin, including:

• Movie theaters and outdoor performance venues;
• Museums, cultural and historical sites;
• Fitness centers and health clubs;
• Certain indoor recreational activities with low potential for contact;
• Professional sports teams, under the authority of league-wide rules, may hold games without spectators

Learn More

City Amends Temporary Emergency Restrictions on Public Meetings and Events

The City of Cambridge announced this week that all City-sponsored community events, athletic events, events permitted for the use of City parks or other City-sponsored public gatherings will be cancelled through July 30, 2020.

City Sponsored Youth Sports set to resume July 12.

Learn More

Tobin Montessori and Vassal Lane Schools

July 7, 2020 – A presentation detailing the Feasibility Study for the Tobin Montessori and Vassal Lane Upper School has been posted to the project page. The full feasibility study and associated documents can be accessed under the “Documents” tab.

This presentation includes:

• A message from the City Manager, Louis DePasquale
• A review of the goals of the Feasibility Study
• A review of the changes made to the project proposal based on community feedback, including:
  • A reduction in the size of the school population
  • A reduction in the overall building size
  • An increase in the open space and a greater connectivity to the proposed open space
• A review of the project design schedule
• A review of building and site elements of the preferred option- "Crossroads"
• An explanation of the cost estimate
• Details about next steps

A community meeting will be held remotely in the next few weeks to give residents an opportunity to learn more about the next step in the process- the Schematic Design Phase. More information about the meeting will be provided once details are finalized.

We look forward to continuing to engage the community as we move through the stages of this project. Your feedback is always welcome and can be sent to citymanager@cambridgema.gov or kriley@cambridgema.gov.

View Project Page

City of Cambridge Begins Accepting Applications for $10,000 Covid-19 Emergency and Recovery Grants for Cambridge Nonprofit Organizations

July 1, 2020 – The City of Cambridge's Community Benefits Advisory Committee is now accepting applications for $10,000 grants for up to 100 eligible nonprofit organizations.  Grant applications are due by 12:00pm on Friday, July 10.

Grants agreements will be awarded to provide services to vulnerable Cambridge residents during the COVID-19 emergency and recovery that respond to the needs identified in the Cambridge Community Needs Assessment and subject to the requirements of the Community Benefits Advisory Committee Ordinance, Municipal Code Chapter 2.127. Cambridge nonprofit organizations can apply online at https://www.cambridgema.gov/NonProfitGrants.

To be considered for this funding, each entity must meet each of the following eligibility criteria:

• Is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization or, if not a 501(c)3, has a fiscal sponsor that is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. It is preferred that a fiscal sponsor be based in Cambridge, but not a requirement.
• Has a location in Cambridge that serves Cambridge residents.
• Is able to expend the funds within 6 months of entering a grant agreement with the City
• Is addressing one or more of the needs from the Cambridge Community Needs Assessment that are a direct result of, or have been intensified by, the COVID-19 pandemic. These needs include Affordable Housing and Homelessness; Financial Security; Mental Health: Behavioral Health and Substance Abuse; Food; Civic Engagement and Social Capital; Education; Employment; Safety; Transportation; Arts, Culture, and Recreation; Health; and Built and Natural Environment. There is no added eligibility benefit to organizations that will address multiple needs.

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee acts on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding, adopted by the Cambridge City Council, and makes recommendations to the City Manager for the approval of grant awards with nonprofit organizations to deliver services.

Questions regarding the application or application process can be sent to communitybenefits@cambridgema.gov.

Former Cambridge Mayor Barbara Ackermann passed away on July 4, 2020 at the age of 95.
Barbara was first elected to the Cambridge School Committee in 1961 and served on the School Committee for three terms from 1962 to 1967. She was elected to the Cambridge City Council in 1967 and served for five terms from 1968 to 1977. Her City Council colleagues elected her Mayor for the 1972-1973 term - the first woman to be elected to that Cambridge office. Barbara also sought the nomination for Governor of Massachusetts in 1978 but finished third behind the winner Ed King and incumbent Governor Michael Dukakis.

Barbara Ackermann served as one of the regular panelists on the original Cambridge Inside Out show produced at the Continental Cablevision studios for many years. Fellow Cambridge Inside Out panelist Marty Foster died just a month ago on June 2.

Barbara Ackermann, first woman to serve as Cambridge mayor, dies at 95 (by Bryan Marquard, Boston Globe Staff, updated July 7, 2020)

A people’s mayor -- remembering Barbara Ackermann (July 10, 2020, Cambridge Chronicle)

July 5 - It's Sunday and I'm not a religious person, but .... Gimme that Old Time Religion!
Here's a brilliant essay by David French:
https://frenchpress.thedispatch.com/p/america-is-in-the-grips-of-a-fundamentalist

The essay refers to this equally brilliant article in The Atlantic by John McWhorter:
https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2018/12/why-third-wave-anti-racism-dead-end/578764/
(There is, unfortunately, a limit on the number of articles you can read in The Atlantic without a subscription, so spend them wisely or subscribe.) - RW

A Letter on Justice and Open Debate (July 7, Harper's Magazine)

Random Observations - July 3, 2020

1) I am subscribed to a bunch of mailing lists spanning the political spectrum from Far Left to somewhat Far Right. It's helpful to understand what people are saying outside our respective silos. When watching TV I even sometimes toggle between CNN and Fox News just to see how divergent the coverage can be for the same event. [More often I'm just looking for an old movie or something, anything other than Cable News and there's simply nothing else on TV even though this is Comcast's "The World of More," but that's another matter.] One thing the various political emailings have in common is their relentless requests for money - often several times per day as if that's somehow going to more easily pry the cash from my hands as I "cry uncle" just to stop the appeals. Of course, the truth is that once you send them even a little money they'll identify you as an active donor, and they're sure to only ask for more and to do so with even greater frequency.

There is one notable difference between the Democrat and the Republican (i.e. Trump) fundraising appeals. The Democrats just want your money and they want to be able to say how many millions of contributors they have - even if each contribution is just a token amount. The Re-Elect Trump mailings are especially interesting in that they all say that any contribution will be generously matched. In fact, this morning's email said that "Out of all of his supporters, President Trump selected YOU as the TOP PATRIOT and winner of an exclusive Independence Day 600%-MATCH!" Never mind that I would never vote for Trump in a million years nor send him a nickle. The interesting thing is the 600% match that assures me that my $42 donation will yield a $294 donation. My question is simply: "Who's doing the matching?" I suspect this is their preferred way to inject some of that "dark money" from wealthy sources into the campaign.

More to come.... randomly, of course. - RW

City Amends Face Covering Order for Summer Months

June 27, 2020 – The City has amended the Emergency Order requiring face coverings. During the summer months (i.e., from June 23, 2020 until midnight on September 22, 2020) masks or cloth face coverings may be temporarily removed when outdoors when a physical distance of at least six (6) feet from others can be maintained at all times. Additionally, clarifying language has been added to allow for the removal of masks for dining at food establishments in the city, including outdoor dining.

Cambridge Basketball Courts, Playgrounds, Tot Lots, and Water Play Structures to Reopen on Monday, June 29

June 24, 2020 – The City of Cambridge announced that the City’s basketball courts, playgrounds, tot lots, and water play structures will reopen for public use on Monday, June 29. As Public Works crews work to get water turned on at all locations, there may be some delays before all water play structures are fully operational.

Residents should follow all applicable City and State Public Health guidance and guidelines related to the use of these facilities.

Those utilizing City of Cambridge playgrounds, tot lots, and water play structures should adhere to the following:

• Do not visit playgrounds, tot lots, or water play structures if you feel sick.
• Wash hands before and after use.
• Maintain a distance of 6 feet (2 meters) from others at all times.
• Wear face coverings at all times when you cannot maintain a distance of 6 feet (2 meters) from others.
• Children should be monitored at all times to ensure they are maintaining proper distancing and wearing face coverings.
• Seek alternative facilities if the area is too crowded or wait outside the area until social distancing is possible.
• While the City will regularly clean and disinfect surfaces, this will not be done on a daily basis.
• Please use play structures and other common surfaces at your own discretion.

Those utilizing City of Cambridge basketball courts should adhere to the following:

• Wash hands before and after play.
• No pick-up games or scrimmages.
• Open for non-contact drills only.
• Wait outside court until others leave.
• No congregating outside courts.
• Maintain a distance of 6 feet (2 meters) from others at all times.
• Wear face coverings at all times when you cannot maintain a distance of 6 feet (2 meters) from others.

Parks, community gardens, and fields remain open for passive use. No congregating, group activities, or game playing is allowed. The Gold Star Pool remains closed while under construction with a tentative completion date of mid-August. The public is reminded to wear face coverings, practice social distancing, and wash hands frequently when outside their homes.

For more information and to sign up to receive COVID-19 and reopening updates, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.

Lechmere (June 22, 2020) — What Time Is This Station?

City of Cambridge Announces Street Changes to Increase Outdoor Dining Options
These changes are part of ongoing support of small business community.

June 22, 2020 – The City of Cambridge has worked closely with Cambridge Local First, the Central Square Business Improvement District, East Cambridge Business Association, Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA), and restaurants across the City to identify opportunities for the City to support restaurants by creating additional space for outdoor dining. This work expands on the outdoor dining spaces that previously existed in Cambridge before COVID-19 and is made possible by increased flexibility in the State’s rules relative to permitting outdoor dining areas.

At permitted locations across the city, restaurants will be responsible for providing tables and chairs according to social distancing guidelines and sectioning off their outdoor dining areas each day. Due to liquor license requirements and to ensure that the tables are cleaned between each use, these new outdoor dining areas will be designated for use by the adjacent restaurants. Where possible, the outdoor dining areas may be used for loading or parking when they are not being used for dining.

“The City is working closely with restaurants to make flexible use of public space in order to expand opportunities for outdoor dining,” said City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “As we have done throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we will to continue to support our local businesses as much as we can, while protecting the health and welfare of our residents, visitors, and workforce.”

In Central Square, a new outdoor dining area will be created on the southwest side of Massachusetts Ave. between Norfolk St. and Brookline St. In Harvard Square, outdoor dining areas will be implemented on Brattle St., between Eliot St. and Church St; on Palmer St. (which already operates a Shared Street); and on Bow St., between DeWolfe St. and Plympton St.

In Inman Square, on Cambridge St., from Springfield St. to Prospect St., street space will be reallocated to create new outdoor dining areas and back-in angled parking. As a result of these changes, Cambridge St. will be one-way in the westbound direction (towards Harvard) for motor vehicles. Eastbound motor vehicles will be directed to use a detour route of Hampshire St. and Prospect St. The City is still working with the MBTA to finalize information about the changes to bus stops for Route 69 passengers traveling towards Lechmere. People walking and biking may continue to go in both directions on Cambridge St., as will emergency vehicles.

All of these changes have been reviewed by the City’s public safety departments, and have also been coordinated with the License Commission, the Inspectional Services Department, the Law Department, the Department of Public Works, and other key stakeholders.

In addition to these more significant changes, the City is in the process of reviewing and approving dozens of additional applications for expanded outdoor dining on sidewalks and in parking lanes. Restaurants may begin using these spaces as soon as their permits are approved, and they are able to get their outdoor dining set up.

More information about these changes and other street changes that are being implemented in response to COVID-19 may be found at www.cambridgema.gov/covid19/streets.

City of Cambridge Publishes New Manual to Help Municipalities Implement Pre-Complaint Juvenile Diversion Programs

June 18, 2020 – The City of Cambridge today announced a new resource that is intended to help police departments and municipalities all over the country implement pre-complaint juvenile diversion programs.

The newly published “Police-Based Juvenile Diversion” manual is based on the nationally renowned Safety Net Collaborative, which is a partnership between the Cambridge Police Department, Cambridge Public Schools, Cambridge Health Alliance and the Cambridge Department of Human Service Programs that was initially established in 2007. Together, these organizations provide health, mental health and social services to youth and families in Cambridge with the goal of curtailing youth involvement in the juvenile justice system and connecting them to services before issues escalate to potential delinquency. Designed to help serve as a turnkey for police departments and municipalities, the comprehensive manual provides an overview of the Safety Net Program, guidance on establishing critical partnerships, the key steps to delivering a structured case management process, and tools to help evaluate the effectiveness of such a diversion program. Also included are sample key documents, including letters, draft agreements and youth service plans to help expedite the implementation of similar programs for other police departments and municipalities.

Recent reports from Citizen’s for Juvenile Justice and the National Council for Behavioral Health have recognized the Cambridge Safety Net model as a best practice for juvenile diversion. Research studies have demonstrated that Safety Net has had a significant impact on juvenile arrests (according to a 2016 study, community arrests have decreased more than 50% since its implementation), recidivism and service utilization (contracting with mental health services has led to an average of 94 outpatient mental health provider referrals per year). As noted in recent research articles published in Translational Issues in Psychological Services and the Journal of Applied Juvenile Justice Services, it has also improved youth outcomes. In one case, a young teen was referred to the program after stealing a bike and being involved in multiple shoplifting incidents. He was connected to mental health services and a community program. Today, he is working in the Office of Finance at a local university.

“Policing in Cambridge is not about arrests, but about helping people and working on getting them the assistance they need,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “The close collaboration between the Cambridge Police Department and other city departments creates a holistic team that focuses on providing critical services to our at-risk youth. I am incredibly proud the City is making this manual available to other municipalities.”

“This manual provides a template for how other municipalities can implement police-based juvenile diversion,” said Cambridge Police Commissioner Dr. Branville G. Bard, Jr. “By making this information available, it is our hope that the policies, procedures and documentation successfully developed in Cambridge can be adapted to help youth and families across the country.”

“Now, more than ever, mechanisms that bridge the gap between the police and the community are critical to social justice and equity,” said Cambridge Health Alliance CEO Assaad Sayah, MD. “The Police-Based Juvenile Diversion manual provides the specific policies, procedures and documentation needed for communities to stand up their own pre-complaint diversion programs, which will keep at-risk youth out of court and instead direct them to services and supports.”

“Since its beginning, Cambridge Public Schools have been proud partners in the Safety Net Collaborative,” said James P. Maloney, Chief Operating Officer at the Cambridge Public Schools. “The program has helped transform the relationship between schools, police, human services and the health alliance, while connecting our at-risk youth with a wide array of social services.”

“Relationships are the key to the City’s work with children, youth, and families,” said Michelle Farnum, Assistant Director of Child, Youth and Family Services at the Department of Human Service Programs. “The Safety Net Collaborative has changed the way that partner organizations work together to provide greater support for children and create better outcomes for our community.”

To download the “Police-Based Juvenile Diversion” manual, please visit https://camb.ma/3e9n6z4.

Other Safety Net Resources:
A Report of the Massachusetts Juvenile Justice Policy and Data (JJPAD) Board

Do Diverted Kids Stay Out of Trouble?: A Longitudinal Analysis of Recidivism Outcomes in Diversion

Promising approaches to police–mental health partnerships to improve service utilization for at-risk youth

Cambridge-Northeastern Police Academy Graduates Second Class;
12 New Officers to Join Cambridge Police Department

June 17, 2020 – The Cambridge Police announced that 26 new police officers graduated today from the second Cambridge-Northeastern Police Academy class following a special graduation ceremony that was streamed virtually for family members of the class. The graduating officers will join their respective departments after successfully completing training, which started on Monday, January 6 and continued virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The new Officers represented seven different departments from the greater Boston area. In addition to the Cambridge and Northeastern Police Departments, the other participating agencies were Abington, Avon, Brookline, Chelsea and Randolph.

The second class, one of the most diverse classes in recent history, includes 12 new Cambridge Police Officers.

• Six of the 12 graduated from Cambridge Rindge and Latin School (CRLS)
• Five of the 12 Officers are Black, Hispanic or Middle Eastern
• Three of the 12 Officers are women
• The class leader – Officer Samuel Houston – was from the Cambridge Police Department. Officer Houston was also presented with the Husky Award, Academic Achievement Award and Top Gun Award.
• Cambridge Police Officer Quentin Pasquarello was a co-recipient of the Academic Achievement Award.
• Cambridge Police Officer Isaiah McLeod was presented with the Physical Fitness Award.

The Cambridge-Northeastern Police Academy is a Massachusetts Police Training Council (MPTC) certified training academy for new student officers. All elements of the Academy experience are aligned with the four pillars of procedural justice: fairness, voice, transparency, and impartiality. Recruits learn that policing is a “people business” and that their success as officers will depend in great part on their ability to listen to and talk with the community members whom they encounter. A key element of the training is the focus on experiential learning by having officers engage in scenario-based activities and community outreach. The academy is hosted at Northeastern University’s main campus in Boston.

For pictures and archived video from today’s virtual graduation, please visit www.facebook.com/CambridgePolice.

City of Cambridge Adapts Summer Programming to Continue Supporting Cambridge Youth and Families
Summer Food Program Sites, Registration for K-8 Grade Summer Programming Open June 22

June 17, 2020 – Beginning Monday, June 22, the City of Cambridge Department of Human Service Programs (DHSP) will begin operating its annual Cambridge Summer Food Program and open applications for its free Online/Offline Summer Programming. Both programs will support and engage Cambridge youth while following the Commonwealth’s health and safety guidelines, including proper social distancing and use of face coverings.

The Cambridge Summer Food Program, which aims to increase food security for all Cambridge youth, provides free bagged breakfast and lunch to anyone 18 years of age and under. Every weekday beginning Mon, June 22 through Fri, Sept 4, Cambridge youth can pick up free breakfast and lunch meals (including vegetarian options) between 12:00pm-1:00pm at the following locations:

• 35 Cambridge Park Drive
• Fletcher-Maynard Academy (225 Windsor St.)
• Haggerty School (110 Cushing St.)
• King Open School (840 Cambridge St.)
• Morse School (40 Granite St.)
• Peabody School (70 Rindge Ave.)
• Putnam Ave. Upper School (100 Putnam Ave.)
• Rindge Towers (362 Rindge Ave.)

Plans to incorporate free dinner meals are also in development by DHSP staff. During meal distribution, staff will adhere to COVID-19 health and safety guidelines by wearing face coverings and gloves, sanitizing surfaces, and enforcing social distancing between staff and youth. Individuals picking up meals will also be required to wear face coverings.

“Food insecurity is one of the biggest issues that communities locally and nationwide are grappling to address as we recover from the pandemic. We are proud to continue offering the Cambridge Summer Food Program to ensure that all Cambridge children have access to fresh food every day and to lessen the burden of families financially impacted by COVID-19,” said Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and City Manager Louis A. DePasquale in a joint statement.

Registration for DHSP’s free Online/Offline Summer Programming will also open on Monday. Cambridge children in Kindergarten through 8th grade can enroll in morning or afternoon sessions on a weekly basis, July 13 – August 21. Programming will include daily virtual gatherings with friends and counselors; virtual activities to engage with in real-time; offline projects to do at home; and supervised outdoor play by DHSP staff. Children must have completed one year of Kindergarten to enroll and priority will be given to applicants eligible for free or reduced lunch.

In addition to offering programming for K-8 graders, DHSP continues to support high school youth through the Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program (MSYEP). The annual program offers paid work experience to Cambridge residents who are at least 14 years of age, and youth remain eligible to participate in MSYEP through the summer after their high school graduation. This summer, MSYEP work sites will operate virtually, and DHSP staff will assist any participants with technological barriers. The deadline to apply to the program is Friday, June 19.

“The Cambridge Summer Food Program, Online/Offline Summer Programming, and the virtual Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program are just a few examples of the many ways that city staff have adapted and reimagined programs in order to continue educating, engaging, and empowering Cambridge youth,” said Ellen Semonoff, Assistant City Manager for Human Services. “While this summer’s programming will be different than past years, we are excited to explore new ways that we can support Cambridge youth and families.”

Cambridge's Community Benefits Advisory Committee to Offer $1 Million in Grants to Eligible Nonprofit Organizations

June 16, 2020 – The City of Cambridge's Community Benefits Advisory Committee is pleased to announce that it will be issuing an application for $10,000 grants for up to 100 eligible 501c3 nonprofit organizations, beginning in early July. Grants agreements will be awarded to provide services to vulnerable Cambridge residents during the COVID-19 emergency and recovery that respond to the needs identified in the Cambridge Community Needs Assessment and subject to the requirements of the Community Benefits Advisory Committee Ordinance, Municipal Code Chapter 2.127. We are announcing the grant opportunity now so that non-profit organizations may respond quickly when the application becomes available in early July 2020.

"Our nonprofit community provides basic needs and other critical supports for low-income, under-resourced, and vulnerable families, and individuals at risk," said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. "I am so pleased that we will be able to provide these grants through the Community Benefits Fund to help our nonprofit organizations provide additional COVID-19 related assistance and critical supports during this pandemic."

The Community Benefits Advisory Committee acts on the Guiding Principles for Community Benefits Funding, adopted by the Cambridge City Council, and makes recommendations to the City Manager for the approval of grant awards with nonprofit organizations to deliver services.

Given the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Committee intends for this process to be as expedient and simple as possible and expects applications to be available in early July 2020. If you would like to be contacted when the application is issued, please email communitybenefits@cambridgema.gov.

For past meeting minutes and information on future meetings, please visit the Community Benefits Advisory Committee in the Open Meeting Portal.

There will be a Virtual Open House to discuss the proposed MXD substation development plan on June 25 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. The meeting will be hosted jointly by The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority, Boston Properties and Eversource to continue the conversation on the alternative substation site and accompanying commercial and residential development on the North Parcel of the MXD District in Kendall Square. Join the Zoom Webinar or dial in to: 1-646-558-8656 Meeting ID: 880 9233 9880 - Password: 014149. To learn more about the proposal or to provide feedback please visit our project website at www.mxdsub.site.

CoUrbanize Website for the MXD Substation Development Plan

The Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (CRA) is happy to announce a new CoUrbanize community engagement website for the MXD Substation Development Plan in Kendall Square. We'll be using this site alongside our partners Boston Properties and Eversource, to share updates to keep the community informed. The site also has a comments section where visitors to the page can provide input and ask questions.

Martin C. Foster of Belmont, passed away on June 2, 2020. Husband of the late Patricia A. Connolly. Survived by his children; Kate Foster and her husband Joseph Shannon and Kris Foster and her husband Stephen Troiano all of Belmont, his grandchildren Maureen, Grady and Aidan, his siblings Ellen Varella, Francis Foster and Susanne Collins. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Funeral Mass will be private. A Celebration of Marty’s life will be held at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to the Martin C. Foster and Patricia A. Connolly Building Fund, New England School Law/Boston, 154 Stuart St. Boston, MA. O2116.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Martin C. Foster, please visit our floral store.

Marty Foster was for many years a regular panelist on the "Cambridge Inside Out" local television show produced at the Continental Cablevision studios on Sherman Street. Created by Glenn Koocher, the regular panelists on the show were Glenn Koocher, Barbara Ackermann, Marty Foster, Saundra Graham, and Tom Rafferty. Many others also sat in as panelists over the years.

Update on COVID-19 & the City's Waste Services

June 9, 2020 – The main updates:

• Weekly Trash, Recycling, Compost, and Yard Waste collection hasn't changed.
• Unfortunately, we are collecting compost carts with the trash. In order to comply with social distancing practices, DPW had to limit the number of workers in trucks. This means limited capacity for curbside collections. Our Zero Waste goals are important to us, but employee and public safety comes first. We ask residents to continue placing food scraps in the lockable green bin to protect against rodents. We know this is frustrating, but this suspension is temporary and we will resume normal compost collection as soon as we are able to do so safely, but we can't provide a timeline as of now.
• Drop-off compost at DPW is OPEN and it will NOT be collected as trash. It is located behind DPW (147 Hampshire St) on Norfolk Street (see photo below). But, drop-off compost is currently CLOSED at Danehy Park and Moore Youth Center.
• The DPW Recycling Center will reopen Saturday June 13, 2020, and will be open on Saturdays ONLY through the end of the summer. Due to COVID-19, extra safety protocols are being implemented. Please review these changes before visiting.
• The next Household Hazardous Waste event is scheduled for June 27, 2020, 9am-1pm. The address for the event is 50 Mooney Street, Cambridge MA. Due to COVID-19, there are extra safety protocols being implemented. Please review these changes before attending.
• Mattress, TV collection, and other Large Appliance collection is ON SCHEDULE. Visit CambridgeMA.Gov/Recycle to schedule a collection.

Baker-Polito Administration Initiates Transition to Second Phase of Four-Phase Approach

The following businesses will be eligible to reopen in Step One of Phase II on June 8, with contingencies:

• Retail, with occupancy limits;
• Childcare facilities and day camps, with detailed guidance;
• Restaurants, outdoor table service only;
• Hotels and other lodgings, no events, functions or meetings;
• Warehouses and distribution centers;
• Personal services without close physical contact, such as home cleaning, photography, window washing, career coaching and education tutoring;
• Post-secondary, higher education, vocational-tech and occupation schools for the purpose of completing graduation requirements;
• Youth and adult amateur sports, with detailed guidance;
• Outdoor recreation facilities;
• Professional sports practices, no games or public admissions;
• Non-athletic youth instructional classes in arts, education or life skills and in groups of less than 10;
• Driving and flight schools;
• Outdoor historical spaces, no functions, gatherings or guided tours;
• Funeral homes, with occupancy limits

Learn more

More COVID-19 Updates at 2020 CCJ Notes I (January to June) and at the City's COVID-19 Information Page.

Cambridge Police Issue New General Order That Requires Officers to Intervene When Another Officer Uses Unreasonable Force

June 8, 2020 – Police Commissioner Branville G. Bard, Jr. today announced a General Order to all sworn members of the Cambridge Police Department specific to an officer’s duty to intervene. The General Order, which is effective immediately, requires “all sworn members of the Cambridge Police Department present at any scene where physical force is being applied, to either stop, or attempt to stop, another member of the Department when force is being unreasonably applied or is no longer required.”

Prior to this Order, an officer was obligated to report any use of force violations to their superior officer under the Cambridge Police Use of Force policy and Departmental Rules. This new General Order will still require supervisor notification, but now mandates officers to take a preventive or active approach. If an officer observes behavior that suggests another member is about to conduct unethical or inappropriate behavior, the General Order requires officers, whenever possible, to intervene verbally or physically depending on the circumstances. When conduct is being committed by another member, officers are ordered to take an active approach to verbally or physically intervene to stop any unethical behavior or misconduct committed by another member in the Department.

“We continually examine our policies to ensure that they meet the state’s requirements, conform to the very best practices in policing, and prioritize the sanctity of human life,” said Commissioner Bard. “Over the last two weeks, we have closely scrutinized our policies and procedures in light of the various reform measures that are being proposed around the country such as those outlined in the 8 Can’t Wait project. While we feel that most, if not all, of our policies directly align with the spirit of what is being asked for in the recommendations, an area where we felt we could be more explicit was the duty to intervene and stop excessive force by other officers.”

Within the General Order, the Department has also issued guidelines and specific examples of what these approaches would practically look like.

To review the new General Order, please visit: https://www.cambridgema.gov/~/media/Files/policedepartment/Policies/generalorder2013dutytointervene.pdf

Apropos of Something....

City Operating Budgets over last 30 years (NOT including School Budgets)

Total City Operating Budgets over last 30 years (INCLUDING School Budgets)

Cambridge School Department Budgets over last 30 years

Cambridge Police Department Budgets over last 30 years

Police Dept Budgets as percentage of Total Budget (NOT including School Budget)

Police Dept Budgets as percentage of Total Budget (INCLUDING School Budget)

FY2021 Budgets exceeding $3 million

May 26, 2020: Submitting Round 2 Initiative Petitions to the Cambridge Election Commission Office - COVID-19 Response

Please take notice that the deadline for round 2 initiative petitions is June 17 at 5:00pm. During this time of COVID-19 individuals may submit round 2 initiative petitions by mailing them to the Election Commission, 51 Inman Street, Cambridge, MA 02139. Please include a self-addressed stamped return envelope and we will mail the petitions back once they are certified. For mailed round 2 initiative petitions, please be aware that a postmark is not sufficient for initiative petition deadlines. The petitions must arrive in the Election Commission Office by 5:00pm on the deadline of June 17. In addition, The Election Commission staff will be available to accept the round 2 initiative petitions curbside at 51 Inman Street on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8:30am to 5:00pm. If you are dropping off or picking up round 2 initiative petitions, please call the office at 617-349-4361 and a staff member will assist you.

Any further updates regarding accepting round 2 initiative petitions will be located on the Election Commission Website at www.cambridgema.gov/election. Please do not hesitate to email us at elections@cambridgema.gov if you have any questions.

COVID-19 Cases Surpass 1,000 in Cambridge
Residents Urged to Wear Masks and Practice Social Distancing as City Reopens

June 2, 2020 – The Cambridge Public Health Department (CPHD) reported that the number of known COVID-19 infections among Cambridge residents surpassed 1,000 on June 1, and that nearly 100 residents have died from the disease.

“With heavy hearts, we are announcing these difficult milestones today,” said Claude A. Jacob, the city’s Chief Public Health Officer and Director of the Cambridge Public Health Department. “Sadly, many of the deaths were among frail elderly residents of our nursing homes, and a disproportionate share of this disease has been born by people of color, particularly Black and African-American residents of our city.”

“These milestones are solemn reminders that we are still in the midst of a public health emergency,” said Jacob. “This global pandemic has taken a terrible toll on the entire Cambridge community, particularly our most vulnerable. Our continued compliance with public health guidance will allow our city to minimize further impacts caused by COVID-19.”

Cambridge has a relatively high rate of testing compared to many other Massachusetts communities—including neighboring cities—and the city’s positivity rate is also relatively low. According to state data released last week, Cambridge had tested 9,525 residents, of whom about 10% were positive for COVID-19.

“The high rate of testing in Cambridge is a strong indicator that many of the measures that the city and residents have taken are working and we urge everyone to stay vigilant about physical distancing and wearing a face covering when outside the home,” said Jacob.

Since mid-April, Massachusetts has experienced steady declines in new hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19, but the state still has one of the highest rates of confirmed cases in the nation. COVID-19 can cause serious illness in people of all ages.

Since the pandemic began, more than 200 residents with confirmed or probable cases of COVID-19 have recovered from the disease. Cambridge Public Health Department nurses and epidemiologists follow up with all reported cases multiple times throughout their illness. It is through these conversations that staff determine when a person infected with COVID-19 has met the Center for Disease Control’s criteria for ending isolation, which connotes recovery.

While many people with mild or asymptomatic COVID-19 illness will meet the CDC criteria in two weeks or less, people who survive severe illness might not meet the criteria for six weeks or more.

Jacob also noted that most of the COVID-19 cases in the city’s long-term care facilities were identified through a universal testing program operated by the City of Cambridge, the Broad Institute, and Professional Ambulance Services.

The city’s case count total includes confirmed and probable cases.

For local information on COVID-19, please visit the City of Cambridge COVID-19 web page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19.

Street cleaning will resume on June 1, 2020

The City will be sending street sweepers through their normal routes; However, residents will NOT be required to move their cars, but it would be appreciated if they did. Starting July 1, 2020, the City will require cars to move for street cleaning.

Street Cleaning is important because leaves and organic material on streets get into storm drains. Once in the drainage system, organic material releases phosphorous and nitrogen, polluting the Charles River or Alewife Brook. Furthermore, leaves can block drains, resulting in flooding.

Visit CambridgeMA.Gov/StreetCleaning for more info.

Great News: Mount Auburn Cemetery is once again open to the public every day from noon to 7:00pm.
Please respect this incredible resource (and don't all show up at once.....). - RW

Message from President Dave Barnett
Dear Mount Auburn Cemetery Community,

I am pleased to announce the first step in the Cemetery’s phased re-opening, which will follow Governor Baker’s guidelines for reopening Massachusetts.

Effective today, June 1st, our gates will be open each day from 12PM to 7PM. During these open hours, we will welcome ALL VISITORS.

We ask that everyone respect our rules and preserve the sanctity of the Cemetery.

Read more of Dave Barnett's message...

City of Cambridge Announces Shared Street Pilot

May 28, 2020 – The City of Cambridge today announced plans to conduct a Shared Street pilot that will allow residents to walk and bike in both directions on select roadways. Planned to begin as early as mid-June, the Shared Street pilot is designed to address increased movement in the city while supporting physical distancing as the city executes its reopening strategy.

The Shared Streets will remain open for residents of the street, emergency vehicles, and deliveries. Local Access Only, Shared Street, and advisory speed limit signs will be posted at key cross streets to discourage through traffic. People driving are expected to travel at low speeds and yield to people walking and biking on the shared streets.

The initial Shared Street network will consist of the following three key connector streets and will be implemented 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during the pilot period:

Garden Street, Field Street, and Bay State Road corridor from Concord Avenue to New Street, connections to Cambridge Common, Harvard Square, Harvard Yard, Danehy Park, Fresh Pond, Alewife, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods.

Harvard Street from Quincy Street to Portland Street, connections to Kendall Square, Harvard Square, Harvard Yard, Sennott Park, nearby City buildings, Washington Elms/Newtowne Court, 119 Windsor Street, Whole Foods.

Magazine Street from Green Street to Memorial Drive, connections to Central Square, Magazine Beach, BU Bridge, Morse School fields, Trader Joe’s.

“In addition to previous city planning efforts on shared streets, we have gained valuable insight from listening to the public and speaking with staff from other municipalities who have been successful in implementing similar programs, and leveraging resources from the likes of the National Association of City Transportation Officials,” said Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “The rollout of the Shared Street pilot will help us gain a deeper understanding of the long-term impacts Shared Streets can potentially have on our community and will provide additional outdoor space for our residents to utilize during the approaching summer months.”

“The City of Cambridge leadership is carefully considering how transportation patterns have changed and how they need to change, not just as we recover from this crisis, but to support a sustainable future,” said Cambridge Director of Traffic, Parking, and Transportation Joseph Barr. “We are striking a balance between being responsive to the community’s desires and concerns while balancing the vital need to prioritize public health.”

Following this pilot, the City of Cambridge will also be evaluating several possibilities, including additional shared street locations, space to support local businesses, expanded sidewalk space at key locations, and facilities to help reduce crowding at bus stops and on bus routes.

In the coming weeks, the City of Cambridge will be seeking additional input from the community, business, and neighborhood groups on how our streets can best serve residents both during and after this public health crisis. If members of the public have suggestions for potential next steps, please contact Cambridge Traffic, Parking and Transportation at 617-349-4700 or tpt@cambridgema.gov.

Members of the public are reminded that they should maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from non-household members and should wear face coverings at all times while outdoors. For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the city’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19

Local Cambridge Elections: 2020 [updated June 20]

What's going on in the elections for the State Representatives and State Senators and other elected officials representing Cambridge?
I'll update this periodically with announced candidacies and credible rumors. Contact me with info. - RW

[Ward and Precinct Map] [Congressional District Map] [State Senate Districts Map] [State Representative Districts Map]

House Districts
24th Middlesex (Ward 11, Precincts 1 & 3)
David Rogers (D) - Incumbent
Jennifer Fries (D) is an announced challenger.

25th Middlesex (Ward 4; Ward 6, Precincts 2 & 3; Ward 7; Ward 8; Ward 10, Precincts 1 & 2)
Marjorie Decker (D) - Incumbent
Leslie R. Phillips (D), a perennial candidate, will likely (again) be a challenger for this seat.

26th Middlesex (Ward 1; Ward 2, Precinct 1; Ward 3; Ward 6, Precinct 1)
Mike Connolly (D) - Incumbent
Won't somebody please step forward and make a challenge for this seat?

29th Middlesex (Ward 9; Ward 10, Precinct 3; Ward 11, Precinct 2)
Jonathan Hecht (D) - Incumbent; announced Feb 10 that he would not be seeking re-election in 2020.
Steven Owens (D) of Watertown filed Feb 14 with OCPF.
David Ciccarelli (D) of Watertown filed June 4 with OCPF.
Mark Sideris (D) of Watertown filed June 4 with OCPF.

8th Suffolk (Ward 2, Precincts 2 & 3; Ward 5)
Jay Livingstone (D) - Incumbent
Kelechi Linardon of Boston filed Feb 7 with OCPF.

Senate Districts
Middlesex & Suffolk (Ward 1; Ward 2, Precinct 1; Ward 3; Ward 4, Precinct 2; Ward 6; Ward 7; Ward 8)
Sal N. DiDomenico (D) - Incumbent

First Suffolk & Middlesex (Ward 2, Precincts 2 & 3; Ward 4, Precinct 1 & 3; Ward 5)
Joseph Boncore (D) - Incumbent

Second Middlesex (Ward 9; Ward 10; Ward 11)
Patricia D. Jehlen (D)

Governor’s Councilor – all of Cambridge is in the Sixth District
Terrence Kennedy (D)

U. S. Representatives
Fifth District (Ward 3, Precinct 2A; Ward 4, Precincts 2 & 3; Ward 6; Ward 7; Ward 8; Ward 9; Ward 10, Precincts 1 & 2)
Katherine Clark (D) - Incumbent
Raffaele Santino Depalma (D)
Caroline Colarusso (R)
Steven Pinckney (R)

Seventh District (Ward 1; Ward 2; Ward 3, Precincts 1, 2, & 3; Ward 4, Precinct 1; Ward 5; Ward 10, Precinct 3; Ward 11)
Ayanna Pressley (D) - Incumbent

U. S. Senators
Elizabeth Warren (D) - current term ends Jan 3, 2025, currently seeking Democratic nomination for President of the USA.

Edward Markey (D, incumbent) - current term ends on Jan 3, 2021, seeking re-election in 2020
Joseph Kennedy III (D) is challenging Markey for the seat.
Shiva Ayyadurai (R), a perennial candidate, is also seeking this Senate seat.

City of Cambridge Cancels Annual Dance Party and Amends Temporary Emergency Restrictions on Public Meetings and Events

May 29, 2020 – The City of Cambridge today announced the cancellation of the Annual City Dance Party that was scheduled to be held on June 26 in front of Cambridge City Hall, and announced that all City-sponsored community events, athletic events, events permitted for the use of City parks or other City-sponsored public gatherings will be cancelled through July 1, 2020 or postponed to a later date. All prior approvals for Special Events for the month of June are being revoked. This policy will be reevaluated at the end of June.

Effective June 1, 2020, the meetings of the Board of Zoning Appeal, Conservation Commission, Historical Commission and Neighborhood Conservation Commissions, License Commission, Planning Board, Pole and Conduit Commission and Election Commission are authorized to begin holding meetings. Meetings will continue to be held virtually by utilizing web based technology that will stream audio and video – whenever possible - of the meeting. All meetings will allow for remote participation by the members of the public body. All other public meetings of City committees, advisory groups, community meetings and the like shall remain cancelled and postponed until a later date, unless a meeting is determined necessary by the City.

All meetings of the City Council, including City Council Committee meetings, and all other City public bodies, boards and commissions that are governed by the state Open Meeting Law and transact official City business, other than quasi-judicial public bodies, boards and commissions, will follow the procedures defined in the City’s Amended Temporary Emergency Restriction on City Public Meetings, City Events, and City Permitted Events due to COVID-19, which is available at https://camb.ma/36HLUv6.

Members of the public are reminded that they should maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from non-household members and should wear face coverings at all times while outdoors.

For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19

City of Cambridge Updates Two Temporary Emergency Orders

May 28, 2020 – The City of Cambridge today announced it has rescinded the Temporary Emergency Order closing certain businesses in the City that went into effect on March 20, 2020, and amended the Emergency Order on Face Coverings and Masks.

Effective May 26, businesses previously ordered closed in the City’s temporary emergency order will be required to follow only the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Reopening Guidelines and requirements for reopening. Impacted business include:

• Tanning salons
• Nail salons
• Hair salons
• Barber shops
• Bodywork Therapy and massage establishments
• Tattoo and body piercing parlors
• Eyebrow threading establishments
• Martial Arts studios
• Group dance and group exercise activities
• Health clubs
• Spas
• Gyms
• Fitness clubs

Please check the state’s Reopening Guidelines for further information on when each of the above businesses are allowed to repoen, as that varies depending on the type of business.

The City’s Emergency Order Requiring the Use of Face Coverings and Masks has been amended to allow employees in places of business to remove their masks or cloth face coverings in circumstances where a distance of at least six feet from others will be maintained at all times, such as, when working alone in an office, room, cubicle, work station, or other location. All places of business are required to post signage at entrances to buildings informing the public that masks or cloth face coverings must be worn at all times within or about the premises. All other aspects of the order remain in effect.

Members of the public are reminded that they should maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from non-household members and should wear face coverings at all times while outdoors.

For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19

Cambridge Commemorates Memorial Day with City Hall Lighting, Memorial Wreaths, Grave Flags,
and Virtual Observance to air May 25 at 10:00am and 8:00pm on 22-CityView

May 21, 2020 – Today, Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and City Manager Louis A. DePasquale joined members of the Veterans Services Department, Cambridge Police and Cambridge Fire to place flags at the graves of our fallen in the Veterans section of the Cambridge Cemetery. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Memorial Day observances will feature several virtual events and remembrances.

“Memorial Day is a time to remember the brave men and women who gave their life for our country and to honor them for paying the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom, our country, and our Cambridge,” said City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “I ask that our residents, on Memorial Day this year, find time in their day to conduct a moment of silence and remembrance for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice for our country.”

During the evenings over the Memorial Day Weekend, Cambridge City Hall will be lit up gold and decorated with wreaths bearing the message, “Cambridge Remembers Our Fallen.” The gold lighting on City Hall honors the Gold Star Families of our City and the Commonwealth, and also honors all Cambridge veterans lost in service and to COVID-19. Additionally, a pre-recorded Memorial Day observance will air on Monday, May 25, at 10:00am and 8:00pm, on the Municipal Cable Television Channel, 22-CityView. The observance will also be available online at Cambridgema.gov/Covid19.   [You can view the observance on YouTube here.]

“Lighting up City Hall gold, having city staff place flags on the graves of fallen heroes, and placing special wreaths on the City Hall lawn are ways for all of us as a community to remember those who have lost their lives in service to our country, and also to the families who have lost a loved one to COVID-19,” said Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui. [Photos by Kyle Klein]

Police Commissioner Branville Bard, City Manager Louis DePasquale, Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui

Members of the Cambridge Fire and Police Departments place flags at the graves of Cambridge's fallen heroes

Best thing I've seen all week - Mt. Auburn Cemetery by Sage Stossel

Cambridge City Manager Submits Proposed FY21 Budget to City Council

May 15, 2020 – On May 11, 2020, Cambridge City Manager Louis A. DePasquale submitted the proposed Operating and Capital Budgets for Fiscal Year 2021 (FY21), as well as the proposed FY22-FY25 Operating and Capital Plans, to the Cambridge City Council. The proposed Operating Budget of $715,264,225 represents an increase of $34,655,884 or 5.1% over the FY20 Adjusted Budget. The proposed Capital Budget is $312,285,940.

The public is encouraged to review the budget backup documents which contain a special joint City Manager and Mayor COVID-19 message (Section I), City Council Goals, Key Initiatives for FY21, each Department narrative (Section V), and FY21 Capital projects (Section VI). https://www.cambridgema.gov/Departments/Budget/fy21submittedbudget

Arrangements may also be made to obtain physical copies of the budget backup documents by contacting the Budget Office at budget@cambridgema.gov or 617-349-4220.

The Finance Committee will conduct public hearings on the FY21 city and school budgets, covering the fiscal period July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021, on Tues, May 26, at 9:00am; Tues, June 2, at 9:00am; and Wed, June 3, at 6:00pm (School Department). The projected budget adoption date is Mon, June 15, 2020.

These hearings will be held remotely or in the Sullivan Chamber of Cambridge City Hall if permitted, and will follow the schedule outlined below. The proposed budget will include recommendations from the City Manager concerning capital and operating budgets.

Pursuant to the Executive Order issued by Governor Baker on March 15, 2020 (“Governor’s Order”), Cambridge City Hall has been closed to the public since 5:00pm on Mon, Mar 16, 2020. If the Governor’s Order is still in effect at the time of the hearings, members of the public will not be permitted to be physically present in the Sullivan Chamber but may watch the hearings remotely. Members of the public may watch the hearings on the City’s Cable channel 22-CityView or online via the City of Cambridge Open Meeting Portal at www.cambridgema.gov.

All public comment for such hearings if held remotely will be conducted through ZOOM virtual meetings. Members of the public are invited to be heard and/or submit written testimony. Sign up for public comment at https://www.cambridgema.gov/publiccomment. Those who do not have access to the Internet may contact the City Council Office at 617-349-4280 to be added to the list and for instructions on how to join ZOOM via telephone if the hearings are held remotely.

TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2020 - commencing at 9:00am

TUESDAY, JUNE 2, 2020 - commencing at 9:00am

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3, 2020 - commencing at 6:00pm

School Department

THURSDAY, JUNE 4, 2020 at 9:00am

If necessary

MONDAY, JUNE 15, 2020 - Regular City Council Meeting

Budget Adoption

* Date changes for individual departments may occur.

For the Committee, E. Denise Simmons and Dennis J. Carlone, Finance Committee Co-Chairs.

Important message from City of Cambridge (May 14):
Street cleaning has been suspended until June 1. In an effort to manage street debris, mechanical street sweepers will continue to go into neighborhoods and sweep streets on assigned days. Residents ARE NOT REQUIRED to move their cars during this delay in service.

City of Cambridge Releases Amended Temporary Emergency Construction Order
Emergency regulations complement the Commonwealth’s guidelines

May 21, 2020 – The City of Cambridge has released an amended Temporary Emergency Construction Order that applies to all construction activity on both public and private property in Cambridge. Under this Emergency Order, the City will only allow construction activity that complies with the provisions of the Order, the MA Sector Specific Workplace Safety Standards for Construction Sites, the MA Safety Standards, and the MA COVID-19 Checklist issued on May 18, 2020. Additionally, the City has established a new four-phased approach for resuming existing construction permits will begin on May 25, 2020, and approving of applications for new building permits will tentatively begin on June 29, 2020.

“Over the past five weeks, the City Manager’s Construction Advisory Group met and collaborated on how to bring back construction in Cambridge safely,” said City Manager Louis A. DePasquale. “I want to thank the Advisory Group for assisting in the development of the amended emergency regulations which complement the State’s guidelines. Making sure these new guidelines reflect that the health and safety of construction workers and our residents was the top priority of the Advisory Group.”

The 23 member Construction Advisory Group was comprised of representatives from public health, building trade unions, inspectional and public works officials, contractors, development project managers, and universities.

In addition to the stringent safety guidelines required by the State, all contractors will need to submit to the Inspectional Services Department or Department of Public Works, as appropriate, a COVID-19 Control Plan for Cambridge on permitted projects. This plan will require:

• A cleaning and decontamination checklist; The number of workers expected on the job site; and
• No non-essential personnel may be present at the worksite.
• Additionally, contractors will be encouraged, and in some cases required, to conduct a site-specific risk analysis and enhanced COVID-19 safety plan for more complex projects.

As previously announced on May 18, the City of Cambridge will expand currently allowed construction activity in the City in four phases:

• Phase 1, beginning May 25, will add site safety prep work for projects previously permitted by Inspectional Services (ISD) and Public Works (DPW). Forthcoming amendments to the City’s Temporary Emergency Construction Order issued on March 18 will modify the definition of essential construction to include work associated with COVID-19 restaurant modification needed to allow them to safely reopen;
• Phase 2, beginning on June 1, will add horizontal construction, city building projects, 100% affordable housing developments, larger buildings (over 25,000 square feet) previously permitted by ISD or DPW;
• Phase 3, tentatively beginning on June 15, will add all remaining existing construction previously permitted by ISD and DPW; and
• Phase 4, tentatively beginning on June 29, will add new permits. Permits can be submitted, and pre-reviews will occur at any time, but permits will not be formally accepted or issued until this date.

For more information about the Amended Temporary Emergency Construction Order or to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: www.cambridgema.gov/covid19

Riverbend Park in Cambridge to Open on May 24 and May 31 as Part of Pilot Program;
Fresh Pond Golf Course to Open May 21

May 20, 2020 – The City of Cambridge today announced that the Thomas P. O'Neill Jr./Fresh Pond Golf Course will open for the season on Thursday, May 21 and Riverbend Park will be opened for the next two Sundays as part of a pilot program.

The Thomas P. O'Neill Jr./ Fresh Pond Golf Course will open on Thursday, May 21 under previously announced operational guidelines. The course will close to walkers and members of the public at dusk on May 20. Under the course’s temporary guidelines, all players must have a tee time reserved prior to their arrival and may not arrive sooner than 15 minutes before tee off. Tee times will be 15 minutes apart. All players must stay in their cars until their group has been called up to tee off. Only four players will be allowed to tee off at a time and all players are required to exit the golf course parking lot immediately after they conclude golfing. An area for waiting will be established for golfers coming to the golf course not in a vehicle or by ride sharing company to ensure proper social distancing.

Hours of operation at the golf course will be reduced from 7am to 6pm. Tee times must be paid in full by credit card or Venmo at the time tee time reservations are made. Players will have up to two hours prior to tee time to cancel or reduce the number of golfers. The putting green will remain closed. No golf instruction, league play, tournament play, or large gatherings will be allowed. All players will be allowed to play only 9 holes and​ must use their own clubs as​ rental clubs will not be available.

Staff will be stationed throughout the golf course enforcing social distancing rules and the use of face coverings.​Several hand sanitizer stations will be located throughout the golf course and adjacent to the parking area. For additional information, visit: http://www.freshpondgolf.com/

​The City of Cambridge also announced a pilot program with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), which will open Riverbend Park to the general public on Sunday, May 24, 2020, and Sunday, May 31, 2020. During these days, Memorial Drive will be closed to vehicular traffic from 11am to 7​pm. Following the pilot program, the City and DCR will re-evaluate the opening of Riverbend Park. The pilot program will allow the City and DCR to assess crowd capacity, compliance with social distancing practices, and the use of face coverings.

With the Governor announcing a Safer at Home Advisory this week and the ongoing improvement in local COVID-19 data,​ officials with DCR, the City Manager, Chief Public Health Officer, Police Commissioner, Fire Chief, and the Director of Traffic, Parking and Transportation agreed to a pilot to evaluate the public health impacts of opening Riverbend Park. The proposed pilot was also discussed with the City’s Expert COVID-19 Advisory Panel.

​Members of the public are reminded that they should maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from non-household members and should wear face coverings at all times while outdoors.

​For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19

City of Cambridge Announces Dates for COVID-19 Testing in The Port and Cambridge Housing Authority Senior Housing

May 19, 2020 – The City of Cambridge announced that mobile testing will begin in The Port neighborhood today (Tues, May 19), and in all Cambridge Housing Authority (CHA) senior buildings on Wed, May 20, expanding the City’s mobile testing capabilities among more vulnerable populations. The initiative, which is being funded by the City of Cambridge and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and coordinated by the Cambridge Public Health Department (CPHD), is a collaboration with the Broad Institute, the Cambridge Fire Department, Pro EMS, and other city partners.

“As part of our efforts to support our residents, this expanded testing capacity will allow the City to reach more of our most vulnerable populations and provide a convenient testing option in one of the most impacted neighborhoods in the community,” said Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and City Manager Louis A. DePasquale in a joint statement. “We want to thank MIT for their commitment to The Port neighborhood and our vulnerable populations. This new pilot program will allow more Cambridge residents to have easy access to free testing, which will in turn help us reduce the spread of the coronavirus.”

“The more testing that we can conduct in our City, the more information we will have to better understand the infection rate at a given point in time and continue to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” said Claude A. Jacob, Chief Public Health Officer. “Testing in The Port and in senior housing is critical given data that indicate higher infection rates among people of color and seniors.”

Testing in The Port is being conducted by Pro EMS and will take place at the Pisani Center, which is located at 131 Washington Street, and will be offered to 1) residents of The Port and all other Cambridge residents, and 2) individuals who are homeless and those who live in congregate settings such as single room occupancy facilities (SROs) and sober houses. Testing is voluntary and free of charge.

Details of the testing include:

For residents of The Port: Testing at the Pisani Center will be by appointment only and run from 12-8pm on Tues, May 19; Thurs, May 21; and Sat, May 23; as well as Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday of next week (May 26, 28, and 30). Appointments can be made by phone at 617-665-3795 or online: https://covid-test.appointlet.com/s/cambridge.

For those experiencing homelessness and who live in congregate settings: Testing at the Pisani Center will be by appointment only and run from 10am-12pm on Tues, May 19; Thurs, May 21; and Sat, May 23; as well as Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday of next week (May 26, 28, and 30). Appointments will be scheduled by Cambridge service providers, who support and work with those who may be experiencing homelessness or live in congregate settings.

Testing in CHA senior housing will take place as follows:

• Wed, May 20, beginning at 9:00am at 15 Lambert Street
• Thurs, May 21, beginning at 9:00am at 5 Temple Street, 7 Temple Street, and 55 Essex Street (contingent upon completion of testing 15 Lambert Street).

Residents were alerted that testing at CHA senior housing sites would begin this week, and appointments are not necessary at these locations. Emergency Medical Technicians and paramedics from the Cambridge Fire Department – with logistical support from the Cambridge Police – will conduct the testing, which is voluntary and free of charge.

Results of the testing will be reported to the Cambridge Public Health Department, and staff will call residents with their results. The City of Cambridge has had a strong partnership with the Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, as well as Pro EMS. With support from the Cambridge Fire and Police Departments, they have provided three rounds of rapid testing in all seven skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, as well as in a number of homeless shelters throughout the city. Cambridge was among one of the first municipalities to work with the Broad Institute and to implement a rapid testing pilot program.

The City is committed to identifying new resources to help residents and businesses navigate this difficult time. For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19

Cambridge Officials Reviewing State Plan as City Finalizes Reopening Strategy;
Announces Local Construction Activity Timeline

May 18, 2020 – The City of Cambridge is reviewing the plan released today by the Baker-Polito Administration for the reopening of businesses in the Commonwealth and has announced City-specific construction activity guidance. Mandating both strict social and business guidance, the state plan calls for the gradual, safe reopening of businesses in four phases. Cambridge businesses planning to reopen must adhere to all Massachusetts regulations, in addition to any additional guidance issued by the City. In the coming days, the City of Cambridge will release further information on City-specific orders that will supplement the State’s recommendations.

The Commonwealth’s plan, “Reopening Massachusetts,” details four separate phases of reopening, each phase of which will last for a minimum of three weeks. The launch of each phase will be dependent upon key public health metrics. These metrics will be regularly updated and re-evaluated to determine whether to advance reopening or if steps are needed to mitigate transmission rates before the next phase of reopening.

Although it is not mandatory to reopen, businesses that are eligible to reopen during each phase rollout must adhere to Mandatory Workplace Safety Standards, as well as sector-specific protocols and best practices. The Commonwealth has and will continue to publish Sector Circulars and Checklists to help businesses adjust their operations appropriately with regard to physical distancing, hygiene protocols, staffing and operations, and cleaning/disinfecting, and to ensure employee and customer safety.

Businesses that reopen must also self-certify a COVID-19 Control Plan indicating how the workplace will prevent the spread of the virus and adhere to state protocols for reopening. Self-certification documents must be kept onsite in case of inspection. Businesses are also required to make visible to patrons and employees signage attesting compliance with the business’s COVID-19 Control Plan and posters outlining mandatory safety standards for employees and for employers.

Effective today, essential businesses that have been operating, manufacturing businesses, construction sites, places of worship, and hospitals and community health centers are eligible to reopen and must demonstrate compliance with the State’s new safety standards by May 25, 2020.

The City of Cambridge will expand currently allowed construction activity in the City in four phases:

• Phase 1, beginning May 25, will add site safety prep work for projects previously permitted by Inspectional Services (ISD) and Public Works (DPW). Forthcoming amendments to the City’s Temporary Emergency Construction Order issued on March 18 will modify the definition of essential construction to include work associated with COVID-19 restaurant modification needed to allow them to safely reopen;
• Phase 2, beginning on June 1, will add horizontal construction, city building projects, 100% affordable housing developments, larger buildings (over 25,000 square feet) previously permitted by ISD or DPW;
• Phase 3, tentatively beginning on June 15, will add all remaining existing construction previously permitted by ISD and DPW; and
• Phase 4, tentatively beginning on June 29, will add new permits. Permits can be submitted and pre-reviews will occur at any time, but permits will not be formally accepted or issued until this date.

The Administration today also issued a Safer at Home Advisory. The Advisory, which replaces the Stay at Home Advisory issued March 23, 2020, recommends that individuals only leave home for healthcare, worship and permitted work, shopping and outdoor activities. It also encourages Seniors and residents with underlying health conditions to only leave home for essential errands.

The City of Cambridge’s Temporary Emergency Order requiring residents to wear face coverings or masks still remains in effect, as does the statewide mask order.

“As a city, we all have a critical role to play in making sure that the reopening of our economy is done responsibly and thoughtfully,” said Cambridge Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and City Manager Louis A. DePasquale in a joint statement. “Patience and compliance with the Commonwealth’s regulations will be critical to ensuring a safe and smooth reopening. We are also developing Cambridge-specific guidance and will share it when it is available to further inform the reopening of Cambridge businesses and offices.”

For more information on the Massachusetts reopening plan and to access state resources, please visit - https://www.mass.gov/info-details/reopening-massachusetts

For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19

Grants and Loan Applications Now Available for Cambridge Small Businesses
Funds will be Provided by the City of Cambridge’s Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund for Small Businesses & Cambridge Redevelopment Authority

May 15, 2020 – The City of Cambridge today announced that grant and loan applications are now available for Cambridge small businesses through the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund for small businesses and the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (“CRA”) Loan Program. Grant applications will only be available from May 15, 2020 until May 29, 2020 at 11:59pm EDT.

The use of the City of Cambridge’s Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund (MDRF) for small businesses will result in the award of grants of up to $10,000, which will not have to be repaid. The MDRF will prioritize businesses that have been more severely affected by the impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic. There is no guarantee that small businesses will secure a grant nor receive the maximum amount of funds. Grant funds are based on a business’s documented proof of need. Applications will be reviewed after the May 29, 2020 deadline.

In addition, the Cambridge Redevelopment Authority (“CRA”) has developed a zero (0%) interest loan program (the “CRA Loan Program”) which is being administered in cooperation with Cambridge Savings Bank and will provide loans of up to $15,000 to small businesses that have qualified to participate in the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund. The CRA Loan Program will provide interest free loans that will be repaid in five years with nothing owed for the first year and semi-annual installments paid over the remaining four years. The maximum grant/loan amount for each business is $25,000 (up to a $10,000 Grant and up to a $15,000 Loan) or three months of business expenses, whichever is lower. Allowable business expenses may include the average rent, salaries, utilities and cost of goods, not covered by other programs. The CRA Loan program will remain open until funds are exhausted.

The Small Business Grant Program is being funded with $500,000 from the Mayor’s Disaster Relief Fund and with a combined $1.6 million from Community Development Block Grant Funds and Federal CARES Act Funds administered by the City. The $1.5 million zero-percent loan program is being funded by the CRA, and serviced by Cambridge Savings Bank.

Businesses eligible for funding from the City’s Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant program, or the Small Business COVID-19 Recovery Grant program administered by the City, are not eligible for a grant from the MDRF, but are eligible for the CRA Loan. If you have questions about eligibility, please contact Pardis Saffari at psaffari@cambridgema.gov.

More information about eligibility, exclusions, and the application for these programs can be found at www.cambridgema.gov/MDRFbusiness.

Those with questions or in need of assistance can call 617-349-9775 or email MDRFGrantBusiness@cambridgema.gov. Translation services are available upon request.

Featured recent stories in the Cambridge Chronicle (the paper of record) - with some comments:

If you would like to subscribe or pick up a free paper copy at various sites, I encourage you to do so. It really is The Paper of Record.

Cambridge to close 3 streets to cars as part of social-distancing pilot program (May 29, 2020)

With limited guidance on reopening, frustration grows among Cambridge restaurants (May 29, 2020)

Red Sox organist Josh Kantor’s virtual 7th-inning stretch brings ballpark feeling home (May 28, 2020)

Baker reflects on ‘enormous tragedy’ at nursing homes (May 28, 2020)

Cambridge releases amended construction order (May 28, 2020)

Cambridge Police: Zero fines issued thus far for mask violations (May 28, 2020)

Cambridge Health Alliance nurses demand appropriate access to PPE (May 26, 2020)

Cambridge opens Fresh Pond Golf Course, Riverbend Park (May 26, 2020)

DATA DEBATE: When it comes to the coronavirus, nursing home secrecy frustrates family members (May 25, 2020)

Cambridge announces COVID-19 testing in The Port and Cambridge (May 22, 2020)

Cambridge announces local construction activity timeline (May 22, 2020)

Baker questions urgency on mail-in voting (May 21, 2020)

Cambridge city manager submits proposed FY21 budget (May 21, 2020)

Baker stresses phase one restart decisions up to employers (May 20, 2020)

City Manager: Cambridge well situated to handle budgeting changes (May 19, 2020)

Cambridge-based Moderna: Early coronavirus vaccine results are encouraging (May 18, 2020)

Send your congratulations to the Class of 2020 (May 16, 2020)

GUEST COLUMN: Cambridge needs digital equity not 5G (May 13, 2020)

Cambridge Police officer recognized a century after death (May 13, 2020)

Cambridge School Committee discusses COVID-19 financial impacts, recovery plan (May 13, 2020)

Cambridge is rolling out mobile COVID-19 testing sites (May 12, 2020)

Cambridge pays respect to Justice Ismail Laher and Pastor Herman Lloyd Greene (May 12, 2020)

GUEST COLUMN: Guidance on educational plans moving forward (May 11, 2020)

Cambridge school leaders take measures to increase student engagement online (May 6, 2020)

Cambridge officials discuss restarting construction projects (May 5, 2020)

Cambridge police superintendent takes responsibility for ‘inappropriate’ tweet (May 5, 2020)

ARTISTS ALONE: The pandemic may be hardest on dancers, says choreographer José Mateo (May 5, 2020)

Cambridge police employee posts ‘disrespectful’ tweet from CPD account (May 4, 2020)

Cambridge biotech to manufacture potential vaccine (May 4, 2020)

City of Cambridge Appoints Construction Advisory Group to Plan Safe Reopening Strategy

May 4, 2020 – The City of Cambridge announced today the appointment of 22 members to a new City Manager’s Construction Advisory Group. Representing public health, building trade unions, inspectional and public works officials, contractors, development project managers, and universities, the Advisory Group will provide advice on drafting best practices that the City can incorporate into a safe construction reopening plan.

On March 18, the City of Cambridge instituted a Temporary Emergency Construction Moratorium on all construction activity on both public and private property. This Moratorium was put in place to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 and safeguard the health of construction workers and all other workers associated with the construction industry, as well as members of the public.

“The decision to pause construction in the city was made out of an abundance of caution. Our planning approach for the eventual resumption of work is focusing on creating procedures and phasing that will protect both construction workers and the public,” said Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui and City Manager Louis A. DePasquale in a joint statement. “This new Construction Advisory Group will provide input on the factors and safety protocols that need to be considered for determining when and how construction will resume.”

The plan will include recommendations and guidance on how to safely resume various categories of construction projects permitted in Cambridge. An initial task of the Working Group is to conduct a comprehensive review of the current Cambridge Construction Guidelines for approved work during the Moratorium and review other guidelines that are being proposed, such as the city of Boston’s draft safety protocols and best practices recommendations. Previously approved emergency construction during the moratorium will continue.

Members of the Advisory Group include:

• Joe Bonfiglio – Mass Laborer’s
• Sisia Daglian – Inspectional Services
• Brian Doherty – Boston Building Trades
• Jason Edic – Lee Kennedy Co.
• Anthony Galluccio – Galluccio & Watson
• Nancy Glowa – Law Department
• Terry Hayes – 38 Siena Construction
• Sean Hope – Hope Legal Law Offices
• Claude Jacob – Chief Public Health Officer
• Mark Johnson – Divco West
• Jay Kiely – Brookfield Properties
• Kent Kunkel – Turner Construction
• Michelle Lower – Alexandria Properties
• Tom Lucey – Harvard
• Duncan MacArthur – MacArthur Construction Company, Inc.
• Carl Nagy-Koechlin – Just-A-Start
• Michael Owu – MIT
• Owen O’Riordan – Public Works
• Richard Pedi – Carpenters Union Local 328
• Don Sheehan – IBEW Local 103
• Ranjit Singanayagam – Inspectional Services
• Kathy Watkins – Public Works

The Construction Advisory Group will be supported by staff from the City Manager’s Office and will meet weekly.

The City is committed to identifying new resources to help residents and businesses navigate this difficult time. For more information and to sign up to receive updates on COVID-19, please visit the City’s dedicated information page: https://www.cambridgema.gov/covid19