Participatory Budgeting in Cambridge, MA

Municipalities must take steps to ensure that all residents are able to inform and influence local governance by granting them opportunities to engage in budget allocation and project development Cambridge, MA's participatory budgeting program allows residents to design and vote on projects funded by a dedicated city budget allocation. Resident volunteers manage the process through outreach, proposal development, and voting assistance, with voting available both online and in person for residents aged 12 and up. Through its participatory budgeting initiative, the city has helped meet community needs, improve parks and expand recreational opportunities.