The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) and the City of Reading have issued traffic advisories for significant road closures and expected delays in Reading and the broader Berks County region on Monday, November 4, 2024. These disruptions coincide with former President Donald J. Trump’s scheduled rally at the Santander Arena in downtown Reading, set for 2:00 PM, just one day before the national election.
The Pennsylvania State Police Troop L has advised motorists to prepare for heavy traffic and intermittent road closures from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM throughout both Berks County and parts of the Lehigh Valley. Major routes likely to experience delays include Airport Road, State Route 22, Cedar Crest Boulevard, Tilghman Street, State Route 309, and I-78 in the Lehigh Valley.
In Berks County, drivers should expect significant delays on State Route 61, as well as possible disruptions along State Routes 222, 183, and 12. Additional roadways in the region may also be impacted due to redirected traffic.
In an update, the City of Reading has expanded its initial advisory, announcing further road closures for the rally at the Santander Arena, now including portions of Centre Ave. are expected to be closed on Monday.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to use alternative routes, such as the Bingaman Street Bridge (Lancaster Avenue Exit), to minimize delays. Pedestrians and drivers alike should plan their routes ahead, follow posted detour signs, and anticipate heightened security measures and congestion within the downtown area.
For further information regarding these road closures, residents can contact the City of Reading’s Citizens Service Center at 877-727-3234 or by emailing csc@readingpa.gov. Additional updates will be available through the Reading311 App.
