Latest news with #EddieMoran
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.
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Reading to begin $18 million energy efficiency project for public properties
Reading will begin construction on a project aimed at reducing energy consumption at public buildings and properties. City officials said the city partnered with Schneider Electric, an international company with offices in Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, to implement a Guaranteed Energy Savings Act, or GESA, project. The project reinforces the city's commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, the city said in a release. 'We are honored to continue moving our city forward in the most efficient way possible,' Mayor Eddie Moran said in a statement. 'And this partnership with Schneider Electric represents another important step in that journey. This transformative project brings us closer to our renewable energy goals, while reducing operational costs and enhancing the safety and comfort of our community.' City Council approved the project in October. City Council approves nearly $18 million in energy-efficiency upgrades to public facilities in Reading The initiative aligns with the city's aim to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2050, officials said in a release. The move is aimed at substantially reducing the city's carbon footprint and ensuring energy resilience. The project, slated for completion late next year, includes comprehensive upgrades that will modernize city infrastructure for energy efficiency. These include installation of solar-collection canopies at City Hall, the public works building and the Cedar Street parking lot. The latter will generate energy and protect vehicles. The total of more than 4,300 solar panels is expected to generate more than 1.78 megawatts of power, completely offsetting electrical consumption at the public works building and offsetting nearly all electric consumption at City Hall. The project also includes over 3,000 light emitting diode, or LED, lighting upgrades across 14 sites and improving downtown pedestrian lighting in five key areas to increase safety and security while dramatically improving energy efficiency. Significant improvements to HVAC systems in four older fieldhouses at Pendora, Keffer, Schlegel and Baer parks also will be implemented. 'We are excited to embark on this transformative journey with Schneider Electric,' Bethany Ayers-Fisher, city sustainability manager, said in a statement. 'In February, we started the LED upgrades at City Hall. We're thrilled with the result and looking forward to a significant reduction in our energy cost.' The initiative complements broader state and federal sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives, the city said. The total project cost of $17.9 million will be funded in large part through anticipated savings of $13.3 million over two decades, officials said, bringing the cost to the city to $4.6 million. This is consistent with funding for GESA projects, which comes mainly through capital recovery and reinvestment, a financing solution designed to distribute costs efficiently over time. The project is also supported by a variety of other funding mechanisms including capital funding, federal rebates and renewable energy investment tax credits supported by the Inflation Reduction Act. Officials said the upgrades will deliver substantial environmental and community benefits, such as enhanced park and pedestrian lighting for increased safety, improved comfort in municipal facilities and the adoption of net metering to optimize energy spending. Additionally, the city said, the upgrades will mitigate the risk of volatile energy prices, helping to provide long-term budget stability against energy cost fluctuations. The project's environmental impact is equally impressive, officials said, equating to the removal of 454 cars from the road, supplying energy to 273 households and planting 84,628 trees annually. For more information, visit the city's website at
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Community collaboration and staff dedication emphasized in mayor's state of the city address
Reading's future relies on community collaboration and public and private investment, Mayor Eddie Moran emphasized in his fifth state of the city address. Moran focused on the city's progress over the past year and future plans Thursday morning during a program at the Redner's Event Center at FirstEnergy Stadium. 'The state of our city is strong,' he said. 'It's strong because of the people who see the promise and potential of this community. It is strong because of the residents and businesses that call Reading home, and it is strong because of the countless ways that people —like the ones right here in this room— show up daily for our city.' More than two hundred state and local elected officials, community leaders and others attended the event, which reached countless others via a livestream. Each person, whether an advocate, leader, partner or resident, has played an important role in the growth of the city, Moran said. 'We have faced many challenges, celebrated victories, and above all, we continue to push forward a vision of prosperity and opportunity,' the mayor said. 'I want to personally thank each of you for believing in what we can achieve together.' Significant progress was made over the past year, he said. 'Make no mistake, Reading is not just ready for what is ahead,' Moran said. 'It is actively advancing on its path growth and revitalization.' The mayor spoke of the achievements that showcase the dedication of the city's staff, the value of its public and private partnerships and the strength of the community, all of which, he said, is more than a recitation of data and facts. Moran touched on Reading's partnerships small businesses and nonprofits, many of which were supported by the city through American Rescue Plan Act fund distributions. These investments are helping to foster economic development, support community needs and create a stronger, more connected future for the city, he said. Reading Mayor Eddie Moran delivers his State of the City Address at the Redner's Event Center in FirstEnergy Stadium on Thursday. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE). Moran went on to highlighted the key accomplishments of four major city departments: police, fire, community development and public property. Under the leadership of Police Chief Elia Vazquez, the city's police department achieved significant strides in public safety, the mayor said. Serious crimes decreased by 21% compared to 2023, marking a substantial improvement in city safety, he said. Motor vehicle deaths saw a 9% reduction and non-fatal shootings decreased by 18%. The department's proactive efforts included removing over 180 illegal firearms from the streets and conducting 3,201 directed patrols, Moran said, averaging nine per day in high-crime areas. Community engagement was pivotal, he said, with officers participating in 29 community events, fostering trust and educating residents on public safety. Advancements in recruitment was a key priority, Moran said. The hiring process was streamlined,and a $5,000 bonus was offered to attract candidate officers and help address staffing shortages. 'When we talk about public safety, we must also recognize the work of a Reading Fire Department under the leadership of Fire Chief James Stoudt,' the mayor said. The department responded last year to over 26,000 calls, including 65 structured fires and 509 vehicle accidents. 'Their efforts saved more than $1.7 million in property and helped limit fire losses to just over half a million dollars,' Moran said. The department's highly trained personnel also responded to nonemergency calls and administered live-saving measures when needed, he said. Since the dedication of the new Ninth and Marion streets fire station in September, the department has a modern state of the art facility, Moran said. Six new firefighters, EMG trainees and three paramedics joined the department, he said, and will help fill the gaps left by retirements. Modernizing the department's equipment was another key focus in 2024, he said, noting newly acquired apparatus includes two engines, a rescue truck and specialized vehicles, such as UTVs and a new paramedic unit. 'These investments provide our firefighters with the necessary equipment to respond quickly and effectively no matter the challenge,' Moran said. Reading Mayor Eddie Moran and his wife, Ruth, enter the Redner's Event Center in FirstEnergy Stadium for his annual State of the City Address on Thursday. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE). Switching focus to the community development and codes department, the mayor noted 1,677 permits were issued and 391 detailed plan reviews completed in the past year. This demonstrates the department's commitment to efficiently managing development projects in the city, he said. Moran also emphasized his focus on affordable housing. He has set a goal of delivering 500 new housing units by the end of his second term, he said. Helping to fill that need is a critical part of the department's mission, he said, noting 'As the year ended, the department was on track to deliver 125 new housing units.' The department also secured $1.4 million in federal community project funding to assist in the remediation of private property, creating more opportunities for redevelopment and rehabilitation, he said. 'There's another step forward in addressing the long-standing housing challenges, to support our commitments to affordable housing and access,' Moran said. The mayor also highlighted several initiatives related to parks and public property, noting $4 million was invested in improving recreational areas. Moran emphasized the importance of sustainability in public spaces, noting the city is working toward achieving 100% renewable energy by 2050. The effort includes modernizing infrastructure in public spaces with LED lighting, solar panels and HVAC upgrades. Reading Mayor Eddie Moran acknowledges the attendees following his annual State of the City Address at the Redner's Event Center in FirstEnergy Stadium on Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025. (BILL UHRICH/READING EAGLE). Moran also made some key points about Reading's recent designation as a city revitalization and improvement zone, or CRIZ. The CRIZ has the potential to fund transformational projects, he said, noting every dollar invested through it is expected to generate $4 in private investment, creating a significant multiplier effect. It is a critical tool for realizing what the mayor called Reading's 'limitless potential' and driving future investments and economic strength in the city, he said. The CRIZ will be integrated with the city's downtown strategic plans and aligned with efforts of local businesses, developers, community organizations and state agencies, Moran said. The goal is to unlock Reading's full economic potential, revitalize neighborhoods and strengthen the downtown area. 'Reading is ready,' the mayor concluded. 'Ready to lead boldly, to create opportunities that drive redevelopment and to build an economy that works for everyone. We are ready to show the world what happens when we embrace diversity, value every voice and work together towards shared progress. We are ready to transform innovative ideas into meaningful actions, building a future rooted in connection, growth and pride for all.'
