WEST READING, Pa.- Neighbors in West Reading will be taking a closer look at their streets.
It’s all part of a pedestrian safety audit, led by Bowman, a consulting company hired by the borough to study safety in the area.
“Which is really a community walk where we’re going to split into groups and look at safety issues throughout the downtown West Reading area,” said Randy Waltermyer, Regional Planning Lead from Bowman Consulting.
The goal? Safer streets for everyone.
“Especially walkability to the West Reading Elementary Center,” said Waltermyer.
West Reading Police say this is about planning and safety. They report at least 12 pedestrian accidents in 2024 and 2025.
The audit comes after an online survey, where residents shared their concerns, and now, those concerns turn into action.
”We know the residents are our best informants, that they live and walk this themselves every day and they know the problems, the challenges, the issues,” said Waltermyer.
Participants will break into groups, walk to different areas, and point out issues along the way.
From crosswalk timing, to traffic signals, to school zone safety, paying special attention to concerns traveling along and across Penn Avenue.
“Changes that you could expect to see out of the plan may include adjustments to the traffic signals, providing an advanced time for pedestrians to get out in the crosswalk and walk. Also adjustments to the school zone flashers,” said Waltermyer.
A final report with recommendations is expected by June.