READING, Pa. – New renderings offer a preliminary look at a proposed sky bridge that would connect the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel to the Santander Arena, with the goal of attracting more conventions and generating economic activity in Reading.<\/p>\n
Jim Boscov, CEO of Boscov\u2019s, has been among those discussing the proposed sky bridge\u2019s potential to boost conventions in Reading.<\/p>\n
Boscov said a conversation with a convention expert helped illustrate the value of connecting the DoubleTree hotel and Santander Arena, as convention organizers typically want all meeting spaces in one connected location.<\/p>\n
The proposed bridge would link the hotel and arena, allowing convention attendees to move between the two venues for meetings, meals and other activities.<\/p>\n
Boscov said the arena could host large gatherings, including banquets and plenary sessions, while smaller breakout sessions and other convention functions could take place at the hotel.<\/p>\n
The project is expected to cost between $6 million and $8 million, according to Boscov.<\/p>\n
An economic impact study commissioned for the project estimates the sky bridge could generate an additional $8.4 million in annual revenue for the city of Reading and more than $11 million annually for Berks County, Boscov said.<\/p>\n
Boscov expects the project to help attract about 19 conventions to Reading.<\/p>\n
Beyond the proposed sky bridge, Boscov said he hopes efforts to revitalize the surrounding area will help make downtown Reading more inviting. Those efforts include plans to improve Penn Street and provide assistance to people experiencing homelessness in the area.<\/p>\n
Boscov said he hopes the project will help restore the vibrancy he remembers from his childhood.<\/p>\n
\u201cTo bring Reading back to what I knew it as a kid when it was vibrant and vital, where there are shops and restaurants, I think this is one way to do it,\u201d Boscov said.<\/p>\n
The project remains in its preliminary stages, with renderings providing an early look at what the proposed connection could look like. Boscov hopes construction will begin by mid-2027.<\/p>\n
\nCopyright 2026 Maranatha Broadcasting Co., Inc.. All Rights Reserved.\n<\/p>\n
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