Cambridge Council ordains citywide multifamily zoning after months of debate

The Cambridge City Council on Feb. 10 voted to ordain a package of multifamily zoning changes intended to allow more multifamily housing across the city, ending long-standing exclusionary restrictions in much of Cambridge.

The package — commonly referred to in public testimony as the “4+2” multifamily zoning proposal — passed in two ordinance votes. Councilors voted 8–1 to ordain Part 1 (the zoning amendments as amended) and 8–1 to ordain Part 2. Councilor Siddiqui moved the ordination of Part 1; Councilor Siddiqui moved Part 2 as well. The votes were taken by roll call; eight members voted yes and one member voted no on each ordinance vote.

Why it matters: Supporters said the changes will increase housing supply throughout Cambridge and are a necessary step to address affordability, displacement and climate goals tied to denser, transit-oriented living. Opponents warned the changes will accelerate luxury development, threaten neighborhood character and strain infrastructure.

The council’s action followed a marathon public-comment period. The city gave one-minute speaking slots and heard about 95 sign-ups; dozens of residents, renters, homeowners and advocates spoke for and against the ordinance. Supporters said the zoning change will “end exclusionary zoning” and create more opportunities for renters, young families and workers to…