The interior and surrounding property of the City’s iconic Pagoda will temporarily close for infrastructure improvements, traffic enhancements, and safety inspections.
COVID-19 restrictions may have promoted the closure of the landmark Pagoda, but the immediate need for improvements has extended it. In early July, enhancements began with minor improvements and installing a new pulley system on the flagpole.
The Moran administration, Public Works specifically, is currently leading and overseeing the restoration project at The Pagoda that will include ADA accessibility and compliance, traffic patterns, street widening, and parking expansion, to increase ADA parking spaces.
City Council recently awarded a contract to Barwis Construction, a Birdsboro-based company, expected to begin operations after Labor Day weekend.
The beautification plan of The Pagoda also includes installing gates to regulate access to the skyline drive from dusk to dawn. In the next phase of the project, construction will include repaving and milling, adding new LED lighting, and repairs to the sidewalks, stairs and railings.
“I ask our community to please understand and allow the professionals to do their best in preserving our precious yet old, iconic architecture gem. These improvements are essential for our residents’ and countless visitors’ safety. However, eliminating any immediate threats is equally important of the complete experience we have to offer” said Reading Mayor Eddie Moran.
In addition, in early spring, geotechnical and structural engineers are expected to assess the property, including the stone walls and foundation. Thereafter, the structure will be evaluated, which findings could aggregate imminent mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and historic upgrades.
