Ideas on how to redesign the Reading Gateway Bridge are still being accepted.
Officials are reminding residents that they have until May 31 to respond to a survey seeking input on how to revamp the 600-foot-long pedestrian bridge over the Schuylkill River that connects Reading and West Reading from Riverfront Park.
“There is only one way to redesign the bridge — and that’s by hearing what the people want,” said Anthony Orozco, director of operations for Barrio Alegria, which is spearheading the public outreach for the project. “This redesign is not coming from some out-of-town consultant or a boardroom somewhere. This is being directly steered by the desires and imagination of everyday people who want the best for the city, the bridge, and the Schuylkill River Trail.”
The survey is at bit.ly/4d8ah7O.
The bridge — used by thousands of runners, cyclists and pedestrians each year — is owned by Berks County and used under a trail easement held by the Schuylkill River Greenways Association.
Officials said the bridge is a critical link on the Schuylkill River Trail, which the nonprofit stewards.
The trail draws recreational users and commuters from Schuylkill, Berks, Chester, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.
Greenways is partnering with Barrio Alegria to gather ideas from residents.