Update – May 13, 2024: The City of Reading has announced the partial reopening of Perkiomen Avenue from Mineral Spring Road to 14th Street and Spruce Street from Mineral Spring Road to Perkiomen Avenue. However, Spruce Street in front of the abandoned church at 1340 Perkiomen Ave will remain closed until late Tuesday. Crews are finalizing the installation of a tarp over the top of the church tower structure. “We appreciate the patience of residents and commuters during this ongoing work.”
Update – May 10, 2024: The City of Reading continues to address the safety concerns surrounding the abandoned church located at the corner of Perkiomen Avenue and Spruce Street (1340 Perkiomen Ave). Due to ongoing work to render the church safe, the immediate area remains closed to thru traffic. Perkiomen Ave is closed from Mineral Spring Rd to South 14th Street, and Spruce Street is closed from Mineral Spring Rd to Miller Street. These closures will be in effect until at least early next week. Updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
Update – May 6, 2024: Due to continued stabilization efforts aimed at rendering the church safe, the immediate area remains closed for through traffic on Perkiomen Ave from Mineral Spring Rd to South 14th Street. Similarly, through traffic on Spruce Street is closed from Mineral Spring Rd to Miller Street until at least Friday afternoon.
“While crews continue work to address safety concerns at the abandoned church, the city is actively collaborating with our contractor to ensure progress is made efficiently,” said Mayor Eddie Morán. “We understand the inconvenience these closures may cause and appreciate the community’s patience as we work towards a resolution.”
Original post: The City of Reading has announced road closures in response to safety concerns regarding an abandoned church located at the corner of Perkiomen Avenue and Spruce Street (1340 Perkiomen Ave). Due to the danger of collapse, the city has taken immediate action to ensure the safety of residents and commuters.
Effective immediately, the following road closures are in effect: Perkiomen Avenue is closed to thru traffic from Mineral Spring Road to South 14th Street. Spruce Street is closed to thru traffic from Mineral Spring Road to Miller Street.
The city says crews are currently working diligently to address the issue over the weekend, aiming to render the church safe for the community.
To ensure public safety, city officials say a portion of the church tower needs to be taken down. It is anticipated that the roadways will remain closed 
until Monday, pending favorable weather conditions. However, there is no guarantee, as inclement weather, particularly rain expected on Sunday, may impact the timeline.
“The safety of our residents is our top priority. We are taking proactive measures to address the potential danger posed by the abandoned church. I urge all residents to obey all road closure postings and cooperate with the authorities during this time” said Mayor Eddie Morán.
Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes and follow detour signs. Officials say updates will be provided as the situation progresses.
