This is a common problem. PEOPLE RESPOND TO THE RISK OF PUNISHMENT: if the police were enforcing the law adequately, then the risk/benefit for drivers would generally prevent this behavior. By the fact that this problem is so ubiquitous, aparently they are providing inadequate enforcement. (Same for cars speeding, intimidating pedestrians out of crosswalks, honking, reckless driving... others?)

(1) Why not? If the police have inadequate resources, what additional would be enough? If they just need to reprioritize, who needs to direct them to do so? Obviously there's a severe problem, but I have no idea how to actually solve it. Someone here knows! :)

(2) Here's an alternative suggestion: what would the cost be of putting up a bunch of those mobile traffic notification billboards reminding traffic of some relevant laws, e.g. "BIKES MAY USE ANY LANE AT ANY SPEED", "HONKING VIOLATES CMC 8.16.080, $100 FINE", "INTIMIDATION WITH A VEHICLE IS CONSIDERED ASSAULT WITH A DEADLY WEAPON" so we don't have to dodge and practice our defensive screams-of-terror quite as frequently? And then monitor effectiveness! Just an idea to add to the pool...

Police - JW (Communications) assigned this issue to Traffic - KC (Permits)

We are aware of the ongoing loading issues on Hampshire Street resulting from the limited roadway width along the entire length of the corridor. It is not however an issue that is isolated to a single location. We expect that this issue will be addressed as part of a future project to improve the bicycle facilities consistent with the Cambridge Bicycle Plan. Any corridor project involving substantial reconfiguration of the roadway and changes to the curbside use are subject to a detailed public involvement process.