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About

It took over 30 years of momentum-building, organizing, and advocacy, for the Central Square Business Improvement District (BID), a 501c3 non-profit, to be established in October 2019.
The Central Square Business Improvement District (CSBID) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, celebrating, and strengthening Cambridge's Downtown and Cultural District. Through placekeeping, cultural programming, public art, and community partnerships, we create opportunities for residents, artists, entrepreneurs, businesses, and visitors to thrive while ensuring Central Square's rich history and diversity continue to shape its future. Our work is rooted in placekeeping: protecting what makes Central Square unique while investing in the people, culture, and public spaces that keep it vibrant, welcoming, and connected. From festivals and public art to neighborhood beautification, business support, and community partnerships, we help tell Central Square's story while creating spaces where culture can be experienced every day. Our Streetplus Ambassadors are the everyday stewards of the district. They maintain shared public spaces, support local businesses and visitors, connect vulnerable neighbors with social services, and help ensure Central Square remains a clean, welcoming place for everyone.

The Team

BID Board

Press

Everybody’s talking ‘bout us and here’s what they’re saying:
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History

Central Square, Cambridge’s traditional downtown, originated in the late 18th century as a new village within the town of Cambridge. The construction of the West Boston Bridge (now the Longfellow Bridge) in 1793 reduced the distance from Cambridge to Boston from 8 to 3 ½ miles, and opened the countryside between Harvard Square and the Charles River to development. The Longfellow Bridge reached …
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