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City of Cambridge Department of Public Works (Official) in Cambridge, Massachusetts
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Services Offered
Highlights from the Business
About City of Cambridge Department of Public Works (Official)
We’re the Cambridge Department of Public Works, serving our community from 147 Hampshire Street. Our crews handle street and sewer maintenance, snow and ice removal, solid waste collection, and parks management-keeping Cambridge’s neighborhoods safe and functional year-round. When you need dependable municipal service, we’re here maintaining the physical environment that makes our city work.
Top Highlights From Customer Reviews
Cambridge DPW earns consistent praise for dedicated service, from sanitation to street maintenance. The team is responsive, friendly, and efficient, even during off-hours and unusual requests like retrieving lost keys. Workers are appreciated for their hard work, positive attitudes, and commitment to keeping Cambridge clean and well-maintained. Permitting is quick and easy.
Top Reviews
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Ching Lam Choi
4 months agoFor how well "The Works" have kept Cambridge intact, well-oiled, and well-stocked (with Cohns), they deserve this vote of praise-and heaps more. Cheers to the D.P.W. for a splendid 2025. Cheers especially to dear Cheryl Cooper for working your magic and cracking a joke with us across two time zones -
Atm Twins
1 year agoJohan and Edwin are the backbone of our garbage truck fleet! Rain or shine, they tackle every route with unwavering determination and efficiency. Their work ethic is second to none, ensuring our streets stay clean and our customers happy. From navigating tight corners to lifting heavy loads, Johan and Edwin handle it all with professionalism and a smile. Their teamwork is impeccable, ensuring every pickup is completed seamlessly. Recognizing their hard work with a raise would be a testament to their dedication and the vital role they play in our operations. -
Loyal local
1 year agoThe sweetest, most pleasant and hard working municipal team in Cambridge. Whoever picks up the regular call line is a gem, always ready to help and so, so friendly. Thank you DPW for all you do and for having Cambridge's back! -
Natasa Ristivojevic
2 years agoCalled them many times over the years, many times during their off hours to report dead animals in the streets , they were very responsive and more than helpful -
Hawley Appleton
3 years agoThe guy mowing Longfellow Riverbend park just mowed a special corner just for me to be out of the way while he mows! He just made my morning off on this beautiful day! Thank you!
Neighborhoods
- Somerville
- Watertown
- Belmont
- Arlington
- Medford
- Brookline
- Newton
- Waltham
- Winchester
- Lexington
- Melrose
- Needham
Extra Info
Features
- Reliable Snow Removal
- Dedicated Professionals
- Exceptional Service
- Hardworking Team
- Community Focused
Social Media
Accepted Payment Methods
- credit card
- debit card
- cash
- bank transfer
FAQ
How does the City of Cambridge Department of Public Works (Official) determine pricing for snow removal services?
As a municipal department, we fund snow removal through city taxes and budgets allocated for public works. Pricing is not charged directly to residents for street plowing and salting, which covers public roads and sidewalks. Homeowners can contact us at 617-349-4800 to understand any applicable fees for specific public areas.
Are you licensed and insured for snow removal work?
The City of Cambridge Department of Public Works (Official) operates under city authority with all necessary municipal licensing and insurance for public infrastructure maintenance. Our crews use certified equipment and follow state safety standards for snow plowing and ice control. This ensures safe operations on Cambridge streets year-round.
Does the City of Cambridge Department of Public Works (Official) handle snow removal on residential streets and during nighttime operations?
We clear snow from residential streets, main roads, and public areas using plow trucks, backhoes, and salt spreaders as shown in our operations. Our scope includes both daytime and nighttime plowing to keep neighborhoods passable during storms. Photos of our equipment in action demonstrate coverage for streets like those near Longfellow Riverbend park.
What is your typical timeline and arrival window for snow removal during a storm?
We prioritize major arteries first, then residential streets based on storm intensity and city plowing schedules. Expect crews to arrive within hours of significant snowfall accumulation, often working around the clock as needed. Call our line at 617-349-4800 during business hours-Monday 8:30 AM to 8 PM, Tuesday-Thursday 8:30 AM to 5 PM, Friday 8:30 AM to 12 PM-for updates on current operations.
What happens to snow piles and debris after the City of Cambridge Department of Public Works (Official) completes snow removal?
We push snow into piles along streets or haul it to designated city sites for melting and disposal. Salt spreaders help control ice without leaving excess residue on roads. Residents should avoid parking near piles to allow for efficient cleanup and prevent refreezing hazards.
Why is your professional snow removal approach safer than DIY methods?
Our heavy equipment like plow trucks and backhoes handles large volumes safely without risking personal injury from shoveling or small machine use. We apply precise salting to prevent ice buildup, reducing slip hazards that DIY efforts often miss. Professional operations minimize traffic disruptions and ensure even clearing across public spaces.