GRCA_CommerceQuarterly_Winter2018 - 13

GreaterReadingChamber.org

Streetscape
You may not know that the city's
walkability score is already 95/100,
making it a Walker's Paradise, according
to walkscore.com. Downtown Reading is
also home to several iconic Harry Bertoia
sculptures: "Untitled" and "Island Moss"
are in the 600 block of Penn Street;
"Tulip" is at the Miller Center for the
Arts, 4 N. Second St., near Reading Area
Community College. Coupled with some
truly one-of-a-kind historical architecture,
the streetscape is a hidden gem. As part of
the strategic plan, special focus is underway
to focus on the physical environment
and greening of Penn Street with plant
scape plans and identifying buildings for
facade improvement investment. These
immediate improvements and investment
will help ensure that Downtown Reading
provides the vibrant, clean, safe and
desirable downtown streetscape where
people want to be.

A Measurable Vision
Success of this revitalization effort
will be measured with a few quantitative
and qualitative indicators. From tracking
retail development, to taking a hard look
at downtown housing indicators, to
downtown design indicators, there are
many pieces that must move together to
create a successful downtown.
Both longtime and new business
owners in the downtown are ready to
be part of these efforts. Michael Leifer,
President/CEO of Jimmie Kramer's
The Peanut Bar Restaurant, expressed
his support for these new efforts: "As
The Peanut Bar Restaurant enters our
94th year in center city Reading, we are
enthused and join in the commitment
toward Reading's revitalization being
demonstrated by so many people and
organizations we respect and admire."
The time is now to create the Reading
we wish to work, live, and play in. The
work-and the opportunity-is ahead.
Check us out:
Downtown Reading Facebook page:
@downtownReading
Downtown Reading Instagram:
@downtownReading

RKL&YOU.

dreaming
bigger.
From small business to Fortune 500, dreams
are the fuel for growth.
You are the dreamer. And RKL can help your dreams take flight.
Working with RKL, you'll experience strong, long-term relationships
and personalized service from trusted business advisors who are
dedicated to seeing your company grow. Big or small...from
start-up to exit, we have the knowledge to help you over-come
challenges, seize opportunities...and make your dreams a reality.

Together, we can help you. Dream bigger.
Contact us today to learn more.
Reading * Lancaster * Harrisburg * York

RKLcpa.com

ABOUT AARON GANTZ

administration that truly cares about the
downtown
and neighborhoods and business
Aaron earned her master's in Public
leaders
that
are committed to helping make
Administration from West Virginia
things
happen,
she developed a Strategic
University and has worked in economic
Plan
with
input
from the City and key
development for the last seven years for
stakeholders
as
part
of a coordinated effort
the Greater Reading Economic Partnership.
to
revitalize
Reading's
downtown.
As a native of the City of Reading, she
is passionate about the City and its
future. Working with a Mayor and city

13
http://www.GreaterReadingChamber.org http://www.walkscore.com http://www.RKLcpa.com
Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of GRCA_CommerceQuarterly_Winter2018
