The Community Planning and Development Commission (CPDC) took a significant step forward this week in advancing the ReCAL Center and adjacent pickleball courts at Zero Haverhill Street, approving the site plan and a key parking waiver while acknowledging ongoing negotiations with the Burbank Ice Arena Authority.
The meeting, attended by town staff, architects, engineers, and community stakeholders, focused on finalizing parking arrangements and design details for the two interconnected projects. A verbal agreement with the Burbank Ice Arena Authority was announced, allowing shared use of the arena’s rear dirt lot for overflow pickleball parking. This agreement also includes a community benefit: future profits from the arena will help fund unified sports programs in Reading schools.
We’re pleased to report a verbal agreement that not only addresses parking needs but also supports inclusive athletics in town,” said Jayne Wellman, Assistant Town Manager.
The CPDC reviewed two parking layout options: the original submission, which includes landscaped islands and light pole protection, and a revised plan that adds five compact parking spaces by removing those islands. While the revised plan is less expensive, concerns were raised about long-term maintenance and aesthetics. Ultimately, the commission approved the original plan, granting a waiver for five required parking spaces for the ReCAL building.
Commission members emphasized the importance of flexibility, allowing the Permanent Building Committee to evaluate the best design moving forward.
We’d like the waiver to give us the option to assess the five spots and make the best decision for the town,” said Pat Tompkins, Chair of the Permanent Building Committee”.
The commission also discussed the need for protective measures around high-voltage equipment and generators, with suggestions to add bollards or raised curbs to prevent accidental damage.
While the CPDC approved the site plan and waiver, final execution of the shared parking agreement with Burbank remains pending approval by the Select Board and Town Meeting. To address this, the commission added a condition requiring either a finalized agreement or an alternative parking solution before occupancy of the pickleball courts.
Carl McFadden, representing the Burbank Ice Arena Authority, expressed confidence in the agreement’s approval:
We’ve always wanted to be good neighbors,” he said. “The Burbank family even sent a letter supporting the plan to fund Unified Sports. We’re optimistic about moving forward.”
The CPDC’s decision reflects a balance between fiscal responsibility, community needs, and long-term planning. With the ReCAL Center and pickleball courts poised to become major recreational assets, town officials and residents alike are hopeful for a successful and inclusive future.
