Years in the making, the 18th Ward Community kicked off the Oakbrook Line Project Tuesday afternoon with a ceremonial groundbreaking on East Wyomissing Blvd. near Rose Virginia Road.
Part of the 18th Ward Comprehensive Plan, the project is one of many step that aims to strengthen connectivity in and around the 18th Ward of Reading by improving connections to area recreational facilities, neighborhoods and businesses, while also providing for safe pedestrian and bicycle linkages.
“We’ve been looking forward to this day for a long time” said David Talarico, President of the 18th Wonder Improvement Association.
“This is layer one, where we are going to build infrastructure, expand these islands, we’re going to make them connectable for bicycle and pedestrian safety trail. We want the entire community to use this, this is all about connecting our communities, the 18th Ward, Millmont, Schlegel Park, and opening up opportunities for people to get to where the activities are.”
The Oakbrook Line Project focuses on Hancock/ East Wyomissing Blvd., eventually creating a median trail, 8’ wide trail down the median from Museum Dr. to Lancaster Ave, installing ADA ramps at all intersections, and upgrades to crosswalks.