Reading Launches Planning Effort around the Eastern Gateway District
Join an Open House Wednesday, December 11 at 7PM at the Pleasant Street Center
The Town of Reading invites community members to participate in the planning efforts around the Eastern Gateway District, a key transition area between Downtown and the Route 128 corridor that holds tremendous potential for future transit-oriented development and diverse opportunities.
Building on previous planning initiatives, such as the 2015-2022 Economic Development Action Plan and the 2019 Eastern Gateway Conceptual Design, this new phase aims to expand upon the previous work to one day transform the Town’s industrial district into a vibrant, active center that connects and partners with Downtown Reading and the Walkers Brook corridor. The Town hired planning and architecture firm Form + Place to assist these efforts, which are intended to result in new visuals and policy recommendations for the Town to consider.
“The Eastern Gateway District represents one of Reading’s most significant opportunities to address our community’s various needs,” said Matt Kraunelis, Reading Town Manager. “Economic development in Reading is a priority and properly planning for a mix of uses and potential growth, while preserving Reading’s character, is critical. We are excited to continue this grant funded work that will create a comprehensive framework to build upon.”
The study will explore:
- Transit-oriented development potential
- Integration with the commuter rail station
- Enhanced pedestrian connections
- Mixed-use development scenarios
- Infrastructure improvements
- Design guidelines for future development
- Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) facility opportunity
Share Your Vision: Community Open House
Residents are invited to participate in an interactive Open House to help shape the district’s future:
Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Pleasant Street Center, 49 Pleasant Street, Reading MA.
Please contact Andrew MacNichol, Community Development Director, 781-942-6670, amacnichol@readingma.gov with any questions.
