Reading, PA — February 24, 2025 — Today, Sen. Judy Schwank (D-Berks) and Rep. Manuel Guzman Jr. (D-Berks) announced $850,000 in Multimodal Transportation Fund grant funding for Philly Office Retail’s Penn Square Redevelopment Project.
The funding will go toward new ADA-accessible sidewalks, pedestrian lighting, planters, street trees, bicycle racks and benches at the corners of Fifth and Penn Street. The project is part of a larger effort to redevelop five historic properties along Penn Street, including the former Farmers National Bank Building.
The funding comes from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, which supports projects that improve streetscapes, lighting, sidewalks, pedestrian safety, connectivity, and transit-oriented development.
Schwank and Guzman touted the award and the project’s strategic importance to the City of Reading’s economic future.
“This project is at the very center of our city and plays right into the ongoing redevelopment of downtown Reading,” Schwank said. “I believe we all want to see Penn Street thrive and become a driver of new economic opportunity for Reading and Berks County. We need to do whatever we can to support bold, forward-thinking projects like this one to make that happen, and that is what we’ve done today by securing this award.”
“I am excited to welcome these grants that will support pedestrian protection, creating pedestrian-safe roads in our city.” Guzman said. “Infrastructure development is a critical component for economic growth. Now as a proud member of the House Transportation Committee I feel even more committed and equipped to help improve the quality of the infrastructure and transportation systems in our community. I am advocating for more efficient and accessible systems and structures for all users.”
Other projects awarded in the 11th Senatorial District include:
ReFined Plastics, LLC — $250,000 for the Titus Station Rail Line Upgrade Phase 2 project.
Spring Township — $250,000 for the Harvard Boulevard Curb Replacement and ADA Ramp Installation project.
City of Reading — $200,000 for the Skyline Drive Improvements project.
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