Latest news with #EddieMoran
CBS News
28-06-2025
- CBS News
Reading, Pennsylvania adds 10 p.m. curfew for kids under 18
By Sydney-Leigh Brockington Reading, Pennsylvania will enforce a juvenile curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. for people under 18 unless accompanied with a guardian or responsible adult, officials announced during a Thursday press conference. The move comes after community members called on local officials to end youth misconduct, Mayor Eddie Moran said. Moran said that although overall crime is down in Reading, there is still work to be done. He also reiterated that this curfew isn't about punishment or arrests, but rather youth protection. "Some of our young people are still ending up in situations that put their safety and future in risk. Families are still being impacted in ways no parent should have to face," Moran said. "That is why we are focused on prevention, support and community partnerships." The city is also launching a working group of city employees, police department partner organizations and community leaders to help shape new, smarter safety policies and support parents. City officials are also calling on local schools, hospitals, colleges, employers, non-profit organizations and faith-based organizations to step up and help Reading youth. Moran said Reading previously dedicated $1 million two years ago to create a youth violence prevention group that quickly dissipated after a lack of engagement. "Every young person deserves the opportunity to grow up safe and supported," Moran said. Reading officials say that citations from $50 to $300 could be issued to those who repeatedly break curfew.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Wacky Water Wednesday returning to Reading for 6th season
Wacky Water Wednesday is returning for a sixth season of splashing fun, the city announced. Starting June 18 and running every Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m. through Aug. 20, fire hydrants throughout Reading will be opened to create free spray zones for kids to enjoy. 'Wacky Water Wednesday is one of those things our kids look forward to every summer,' Mayor Eddie Moran said in a statement. 'It's simple, it's fun and it brings neighbors together, and that's what summer in Reading should be all about.' Wacky Water Wednesday is made possible through a collaborative effort of the mayor and his staff; the city fire, police and public works departments; Reading Area Water Authority; and Reading Recreation Commission. Wacky Water Wednesday Schedule • June 18 – Third and Spruce Recreation Center, 320 S. Third St. • June 25 – Keffer Park Playground, 301 Exeter St. • July 2 – 16th and Haak Elementary School, 1601 Haak St. • July 9 – Millmont Elementary School, 400 Summit Ave. • July 16 – 10th and Green Elementary School, 400 N. 10th St. • July 23 – Amanda Stoudt Elementary School, 321 S. 10th St. • July 30 – 1400 block of North 12th Street. • Aug. 6 – Second and Oley streets. • Aug. 13 – Oakbrook Housing, 1001 Scott St. • Aug. 20 – Glenside Housing, Avenue A.
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Demolition begun on 2 Reading-owned buildings on Penn Street
Two Reading-owned buildings on Penn Street must be demolished for public safety, the city announced. Emergency demolition of the structurally compromised buildings at 431 and 433 Penn St. has begun and will continue until further notice, the city said Wednesday in a release. The empty structures in the Callowhill Historic District are in an advanced state of decay, Reading's chief building official told the city's Historical Architectural Review Board in a series of meetings last year. The board reviews and makes recommendations on exterior construction projects in the city's historic and conservation districts. Board members unanimously voted in December to issue a certificate of appropriateness for the partial demolitions of the buildings at 431 and 435 Penn St., with the partial demolition of 441 Penn St. if deemed necessary. However, a provision in the city's preservation ordinance allows the chief building official to take immediate action when there is a threat to public safety. Crews prepare for the complete demolition of the two buildings at 431-433 Penn St. A section of the parapet at 431 Penn St. was removed Wednesday and will be saved as an architectural artifact, the city said. (MICHELLE LYNCH/READING EAGLE) Following thorough structural assessments last week, the city said, it was determined that both buildings pose an imminent risk to public safety, leaving demolition as the only responsible option. The action was approved by Mayor Eddie Moran and reflects the city's commitment to safety, preservation where possible and the revitalization of the downtown corridor, according to the release. 'This action represents progress for our community,' the mayor said. 'We are taking this opportunity to clear unsafe, uninhabitable spaces while preserving the pieces of our history that we can.' Mayor Eddie Moran has approved the complete demolition of both buildings at 431 and 433 Penn Street. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE) Efforts were made Wednesday to preserve part of the terra cotta parapet of the building at 431 Penn St. The section featuring the iconic Reading News lettering will be salvaged and safely stored, the city said. Only the façade of the 1912 Beaux Arts-style structure is considered historic. Originally part of the former Reading News building at 22-24 N. Fifth St., it was transplanted piece by piece to its current location in 1981 as part of the former American Bank $6 million Keystone Project. Due to the severe deterioration of 433 Penn St., no parts of that buildings can be salvaged, the release said. The neighboring structure at 441 Penn St., which contains a façade of architectural and historic value, will remain in place, the city said. The city said it has worked closely with the demolition contractor to ensure the stability and safety of that building and its adjacent properties on the northwest corner of Fifth and Penn streets. Proper shoring and security measures are being implemented to protect the integrity of those structure throughout the demolition process, the city said. The city announced a partial demolition of 431 Penn St. in March with the hope of saving the front portion of the building. Demolition to begin on Reading-owned building on Penn Street That was later determined not feasible, the city said. The city bought the string of five vacant buildings, 431-443 Penn St., for $2.6 million in 2013. City Council last year authorized an agreement of sale for the 1.22-acre site with developer Philly Office Retail, but the deal has not yet been finalized. Mayor Eddie Moran has approved the complete demolition of both buildings at 431 and 433 Penn Street. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE) 'As we move forward,' Moran said, 'our goal remains the same: to build a stronger, safer and more vibrant Reading for residents and future generations.' During demolition, Court Street will remain closed between Fourth and Fifth streets, as it has been. In addition, sidewalks next to the buildings along Penn Street and Court Street will be closed to ensure the safety of pedestrians near the work zone. Motorists and pedestrians are encouraged to use caution and follow posted signs when traveling near the demolition area.
Yahoo
31-03-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Reading Truck customizes service vehicle for Reading Fire Department
The Reading Fire Department added a newly customized mechanics vehicle to its fleet thanks to a city company. Reading Truck, 825 E. Wyomissing Blvd., a leading manufacturer and distributor of work-truck bodies, custom built an aluminum service body for a 2022 Ford F-350 truck owned by the fire department. The labor and materials for the customization valued at about $30,580 were provided at no cost to the city. This represents a significant cost savings for the department and enhances the efficiency of fire apparatus maintenance, the city said in a release. 'As far as the estimated value, I'm waiting for a number from Reading Truck,' Stoudt said. Mayor Eddie Moran said the partnership with Reading Truck demonstrates the power of local businesses giving back to their community. 'Their generosity provides a direct benefit to our fire department and ultimately to the residents of Reading,' Moran said. The new mechanics vehicle donated to the city by Reading Truck. (Courtesy of Reading) The mayor thanked Deputy Chief Mike Glore and Josiah Fegley, the department's mechanic and emergency vehicle technician, who collaborated closely with the company to make sure the vehicle satisfied the department's particular operational requirements. The new service truck will be used to transport tools, equipment and parts needed to perform repairs and maintenance on other vehicles. It will allow for improved on-site maintenance and repair capabilities, ensuring the department's fleet remains in top condition to serve the community, the city said. Nate Goodnow, president and COO of Reading Truck, emphasized the company's appreciation for first responders and noted this was an extraordinary project. The new mechanics vehicle donated to the city by Reading Truck. (Courtesy of Reading) 'As a national manufacturer and distributor of work truck bodies and equipment, as well as a proud member of the Reading community, we welcomed the opportunity to support our hometown fire department in a meaningful way,' Goodnow said. 'It will be an honor to see the Reading tailgate proudly displayed on the back of the Reading Fire Department vehicle.' The generous and unique contribution reinforces the strong relationship between local businesses and public safety services, the mayor said.
Yahoo
29-03-2025
- Yahoo
Security gates on Skyline Drive will close overnight starting Monday
Security gates at two intersections in the area of the Pagoda and Skyline Drive are set to become fully operational beginning Monday, Reading officials announced. Gates were installed late last year at the intersections of List Road and Skyline Drive and at Duryea Drive and Shearer Road. Cameras were also installed throughout the area to further enhance safety and security. The city remains committed to preserving the beauty and tranquility of the Mount Penn Preserve, Pagoda and Skyline Drive, while ensuring the safety and comfort of local residents and visitors to the area, Mayor Eddie Moran said in a statement. Moran said the scenic mountaintop attractions are among the city's most treasured landmarks. 'We want everyone to experience them in a safe and peaceful environment,' he said. 'We appreciate the community's cooperation as we take this step toward responsible and sustainable stewardship of our public spaces.' The mayor and council joined last year in an initiative aimed at addressing ongoing challenges on the mountaintop, including illegal dumping, loud music and unruly gatherings. The gates are intended to help create a parklike atmosphere and provide daytime access to the area for recreational use while addressing long-standing law enforcement concerns. Access to a 1.8-mile section of Skyline Drive will be blocked during overnight hours, but city officials say it will pose no inconvenience to drivers, who will be detoured on a route of equal length. Vehicles encountering a closed gate have space to turn around. The gates will remain open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. year-round, per the city's current park ordinance. Visitors are advised to exit the area before closing time. Signs have been posted at all overlooks and the Pagoda parking lot as well as on the inside and outside of the gates, indicating park hours and warning about gate closures. The Reading and Lower Alsace Township police departments will have remote access to open the gates in emergencies. Police may ticket individuals who remain inside the gates after hours. Special events, such as the Easter Sunday dawn service, Pagoda Hill Climb and other permitted events will be accommodated, the city said.
