A retaining wall along the Candlewood Suites property collapsed Thursday afternoon, falling onto the rear parking lot of 200 Penn Avenue and prompting officials to restrict access to the area.
The West Reading Police Department responded immediately, secured the scene, and notified the borough’s Codes Department. Barricades and signage are in place to keep the public away from the unstable section, which officials say is potentially hazardous.
Following coordination with borough staff and a review of the borough’s Emergency Operations Plan, Mayor Samantha Kaag approved a limited emergency declaration. She said the declaration allows the borough to act quickly to stabilize the site and bring in a structural engineer for a full safety assessment.
“This declaration only applies to the affected area, not the rest of the borough,” Kaag said in a statement. “Please avoid the area and follow all posted instructions from police and borough personnel. Updates will be shared as more information becomes available.”
The Borough of West Reading said it is working with engineers and property representatives to assess the damage and secure the area. Officials thanked the public for their cooperation and patience during the evaluation and stabilization process.
Anyone with questions or concerns is asked to contact the West Reading Police Department at 610-373-0111.
