Chapter 3.3

Metro Region 3.3 Metro Region

3.3 Metro Region parkland. Measured on an acres-per-capita basis, Muhlenberg ranks first with 22.7 acres of parkland for every 1,000 residents This region contains the Reading urbanized area and is situated (while planned, not all acquired parkland in Muhlenberg is near the geographic center of Berks County. Besides the City of developed), followed by Wyomissing (20.4 acres/1,000 pop.) Reading, six townships (Ontelaunee, Bern, Muhlenberg, Lower and Shillington (12.5 acres/1,000 pop.). According to traditional Alsace, Spring, and Cumru) comprise the region along with nine NRPA parkland guidelines, only 6 of the 16 municipalities in the boroughs (Leesport, Laureldale, Sinking Spring, Wyomissing, region have a sufficient amount of developed recreation areas to West Reading, Mount Penn, Kenhorst, Shillington, and meet the needs of today’s residents, while Muhlenberg, Mohnton). The City of Reading serves as the county seat, and Shillington and Wyomissing have ample acreage to meet the the region is the population and cultural center of the county. needs of future population growth. When parkland is measured Even though the region encompasses only 68,085 acres, or approximately 12 % of the total county area, the 2004 population estimate indicates 188,018 persons or 48 % of the County’s population resides in this region. Due to minority migration to the County, particularly Latino, the metro region’s population and resultant economy is becoming increasingly diverse.

The metro region has a rich history, and abundant natural, recreational and cultural resources. These resources are an integral component of the region’s landscape, and contribute to the quality of life of not only the region’s residents but for residents of the entire county.

Recreation South Temple Neighborhood Park

The metro region provides the largest amount, and most diversified recreation and leisure opportunities of all the regions as a percent of the total size of the municipality, the leader is in Berks County. Together the metro region municipalities Shillington, with nearly 10 % of its land protected as municipal provide more than 100 park and recreation areas totaling 1,500 parkland. Wyomissing, Laureldale, Reading, Muhlenberg and acres. This is an equivalent of 8 acres of local close-to-home West Reading all provide more than 5 % of its land area in park recreation space per 1,000 persons. While this amount of local and recreation land. public parkland space is adequate for the overall residents in the region, it is not distributed proportionately among the While the amount of parkland provided is important, the municipalities. Muhlenberg, Reading, Spring, and Wyomissing distribution of that acreage throughout suburban and urban account for over 80% of the local recreation land in the region. communities is critical. In those municipalities providing Meanwhile, six other of the region’s municipalities fall short of sufficient acreage, the distribution of parkland is generally good. even a basic amount of recreation land for their citizens, three However, there are a few neighborhoods that are underserved providing only 26 acres of combined parkland, and three with no by current facilities, leaving segments of the population too far 102 3.3 Metro Region

0- from a park to use it easily, conveniently, or frequently. The 4255- 4074- Lower Alsace Township 4464- metro municipalities should avoid “having met the acreage 26.59 25.46 27.9 standard” by providing a single large park. All municipalities 18.07- 3356- 3798- should examine the distribution of their parklands and provide a Mohnton Borough 3046- 20.97 23.74 more balanced and accessible system. Once a community is 19.04 0- developed, acquiring land for parks and recreation can be 2992- 3058- Mt. Penn Borough 2980- difficult and expensive. The redevelopment process is a tool 18.7 19.11 18.63 that can be used to increase parkland in municipalities which are 394.85- 17016- 18565- considered “built out”. For those municipalities with weak park Muhlenberg Township 17393- 106.35 116.03 systems that are still developing, setting aside adequate 108.71 0- parkland at appropriate locations through the land development 1128- 1009- Ontelaunee Township 1214- process is critical. 7.05 6.31 7.59 353.28- 82244- 84303- While providing parkland and recreational facilities is an Reading City 80727- 514.02 526.89 important municipal function, so is providing a diverse recreation 504.54 62.97- program. Most of the municipalities in this region provide a 4750- 4615- Shillington Borough 5020- playground program. Several provide a more complete program 29.69 28.84 31.38 including open gyms, concerts, festivals and holiday events, 3.23- 2627- 2720- sports leagues, trips, and various art, music and dance Sinking Spring Borough 3339- 16.42 17 programs. 20.87 230.86- 25572- 28158- Spring Township 24903- Existing and Recommended Recreation Acreages 159.82 175.99 155.64 19.08- 3801- 3641- Current Acre- Projected Projected West Reading Borough 4004- 23.76 22.76 Municipality Est. Pop.- 2010 Pop.- 2020 Pop.- 25.03 Rec. Min. Acre Rec. Min. Acre Rec. Min. Acre 226.86- 9.97- 11488- 10994- 7563- 8485- Wyomissing Borough 11142- Bern Township 7029- 71.8 68.71 47.27 53.03 69.64 43.93 12.81- 15058- 15975- 1432.96- Cumru Township 4476- 189983- 197352- 94.11 99.84 TOTALS 188018- 90.48 1187.38 1233.44 1175.11 9.47- 2423- 2177- Kenhort Borough 2649- 15.14 13.61 16.56 Abbreviations: Rec.= Recommended; Pop.= Population; Est.=Estimated; Min.-Minimum Sources:U.S. Census Bureau, 2004 Estimates 75.51- 3590- 3536- PaDEP 2006 State Water Plan Population Projections, 2010 and 2020 Laureldale Borough 3741- 22.44 22.1 Population Projections 23.38 National Recreation & Park Association, NRPA suggests that a park system, 16.01- 2120- 2244- at a minimum, be composed of a core system of parklands, with a total of 6.25 Leesport Borough 1891- to 10.5 acres of developed close-to-home space per 1,000 population. 13.25 14.02 11.82 Note: Municipalities in bold have sufficient acreage.

103 3.3 Metro Region

The public park and recreation system in the metro region is Building and maintaining an adequate park system requires a supplemented by private and not-for-profit entities providing a strong financial commitment by a municipality. In 2005, the substantial variety of recreation and leisure opportunities. metro region municipalities spent nearly five million dollars on Local youth organizations play a large role in providing a variety their public park and recreation systems. However, 84% of that of sports programs throughout the region. It is essential that the amount was spent by Reading, Muhlenberg, Wyomissing and support and coordination between these organizations, Spring alone. From the period 2001 to 2005, Reading had the municipalities, and school districts continue in order to provide largest five-year average park and recreation budget. West efficient and well-rounded programs. Joint use agreements Reading had the highest per capita spending, followed by making school facilities available for community use after school Wyomissing, Muhlenberg, Shillington, and Leesport. Most hours should be executed. Churches and fire companies are municipalities are struggling to make ends meet, and parks and often overlooked as recreation providers, but many have picnic recreation are frequently lower priority then other municipal facilities, ball fields, social halls and recreation centers. Of the services. Municipalities that value their parks have established 21 outdoor swimming pools in the metro region, 16 are owned a dependable and dedicated source of funding, and are using by not-for-profit associations. Many of these pool associations alternative sources to supplement their public investment. are struggling financially and may need public support. A joint purchasing program should also be explored. The metro region Municipal recreation land is supplemented by 2,306 acres of has a concentration of cultural and entertainment attractions municipal natural lands, 940 acres of county parkland, 1,685 acres of state lands, 850 acres of federal parkland and school facilities associated with six public school districts. The core of the County’s park system, the Tulpehocken Creek Valley Park, is located in the metro region. This park contains the popular Union Canal Trail, which receives heavy usage and is outgrowing its capacity.

6th and Amity Playground

such as museums, theatres, art galleries, a center for the arts, and the stadium and civic center, home to several professional sports teams. A variety of private recreation entities including six golf courses, eight fitness and sport centers, three roller- Stonecliff Action Park 104 3.3 Metro Region skating centers, and two bowling lanes among others are overriding recreation strategy of this region is to establish a located throughout the metro region. All contribute to the regional trail network that connects these natural resources to recreation system by filling a void the public sector cannot. each other and to where our people live, work and play. The spine of this network is the Schuylkill River Trail (SRT), and Local Recreational Strategy Municipalities should continue to through a system of tributary trails that link to the SRT we can provide the close-to-home active recreation facilities and connect our communities and provide access to our parks, programs, look for ways to connect those facilities and important historic and cultural districts, and economic destinations. When destinations, and link them to the regional network. Those completed, the network will be a linear park extending municipalities with adequate park systems should continue throughout the metro region and beyond. Much of this system reassessment of needs and modifications based on acreage and either exists or is in various stages of planning, acquisition or distribution. Those with weak or no system need to find a way to development. Since the network will be centered on the SRT, get into the game. All municipalities need to discover a way to the immediate focus will be on upgrading the existing trail, provide adequate funding and commit to it. completing missing gaps, providing signage (wayfinding and interpretative) and trailheads, and enhancing links to adjacent Regional Recreation Strategy Improving the quality of life in existing local trails and parks. the region is critical to the economic success of the urban setting. Quality of life is about having open space, modern-day ƒ Linking the SRT to the Wyomissing Creek Trail provides amenities and a strong and vibrant urban center. Parkland and access to the West Reading and Wyomissing park facilities, recreation help make our communities livable, and allow our the Reading Public Museum, the Wyomissing School District metro communities to become denser over time. Parks, trail facilities, and the Reading Hospital campus. The feasibility networks and close to home nature help that density work. The of extending this trail along the creek to the Mohnton Hub urban core is fortunate to be immediately surrounded by should be explored. numerous natural resources, interspersed by regional and local ƒ Improving the connection between the SRT and the County’s parks, museums, and vibrant historic communities. The Union Canal Trail by establishing a new passive park at the confluence of the Schuylkill River and Tulpehocken Creek will provide SRT users access to the County’s Tulpehocken Creek Valley Park system, Penn State Berks Campus, St Joseph Hospital and ultimately the vast network of trails at the Blue Marsh Hub.

ƒ Establishing the Angelica Creek Trail provides access from the SRT to the City of Reading’s renovated Angelica Park and Environmental Center, and Alvernia College. The feasibility of extending this trail to the Nolde Hub via Kenhorst Borough and Cumru Township is being investigated.

Union Canal Trail 105 3.3 Metro Region

ƒ Establish the “Penn Corridor” urban trail from Reading’s City - Recent Greenway Plans completed by Spring and Park through West Reading to the Wyomissing Node, and Muhlenberg Townships have identified potential trails link to the SRT on both sides of the river. that will link their communities to the regional trail network. ƒ Provide trail connections to Schlegel Park, Bertolet Fishing

Dock, Riverfront Park, Barbey Playground, and Baer Park. Riverfront Renaissance The waterfront is an untapped ƒ Provide access to the Schuylkill River Water Trail by resource. Creating the trail network along the river allows the enhancing and creating new boat landings for canoes and community to experience the river up close, and this physical kayaks. and visual access provides the opportunity to create lively, diverse places. New signature parks are planned for the ƒ Other major recreation projects in the region are the addition Reading riverfront, the West Reading/Cumru riverfront and the of the Antietam Lake property to the County Park System, Muhlenberg riverfront. Regenerating the riverfront as a human and the creation of a new park on Neversink Mountain. realm will further enhance the urban area and small Future ownership and maintenance responsibilities of communities along the network with new economic and tourism Neversink Mountain Preserve will have to be determined opportunities. An active riverfront can stimulate the market for a among the six host municipalities, the County, and the Berks mixture of residential, cultural, retail, hospitality and County Conservancy. The County Parks and Recreation entertainment uses. Department will be re-evaluating their mission. It is

anticipated that their focus will shift more to passive Partners The development and maintenance of this network activities, greenway and trail development, and heritage will require a cooperative effort of private citizens, businesses, resources and less on traditional recreation. For details, see non-profit entities, local municipalities, the county, as well as the department’s Peer Review in Chapter 4. state and federal agencies. Certainly the business, nonprofit ƒ Long term efforts will concentrate on the northern extension and philanthropic communities may actually drive the vision at of the SRT from Confluence Point/Schuylkill Ave Bridge in the outset, but it is likely that the public sector will own and care Reading to Leesport, and eventually to Hamburg. Once this for these new assets. It is recommended that the completed section is established, trail connections to Lake Ontelaunee portions of the Schuylkill River Trail be transferred to the County and Leesport parks should be explored. of Berks to become an extension of the County’s linear park system. Even though the County would be responsible for ƒ Other future trail projects that will link key resources are: maintenance and operation of the trail, the County should build - Neversink Connector Trail which will connect Neversink partnerships with host municipalities and other stakeholders for Mountain Preserve to the SRT via Reading’s Riverfront assistance. The private and non-profit sector remain active Park; partners with the public sector. Several non-profit entities, and partnerships have been instrumental in spearheading these Mineral Springs Trail connecting Neversink Mountain - quality of life initiatives and the riverfront renaissance including, Preserve to Antietam Park via Pendora Park, Mineral the Berks County Conservancy, Schuylkill River Heritage Area, Springs Park and the Mt Penn Reserve using the historic RiverPlace Development Corporation, Greater Reading as a gravity railroad bed where possible; Greenway & Recreation HUB, and the Institute for a Competitive Greater Reading (ICGR).

106 3.3 Metro Region

River as a catalyst to unite communities and foster economic ƒ The Berks County Conservancy, while involved in the development.” By reconnecting to the river, their vision is to development and improvement of many trail, park, urban create a destination where the Berks County Community greening and community gardening projects in the metro comes together to enjoy living, playing and working in and on region, has invested significant resources over the last both sides of the River and its neighborhoods. Their focus decade acquiring land, developing and maintaining trails, area is along the Schuylkill River from the Schuylkill Avenue and promoting the Neversink Mountain Preserve. Due to Bridge to Angelica Creek. One of the key principles of the their efforts the mountain is being preserved and is RiverPlace Master Plan is to complete the gaps in the accessible to the public. Determining ultimate ownership, existing riverside trail system which will form a single trailhead development, signage, marketing, and connecting continuous trail that moves from bank to bank with a system its trail network to the SRT and Mt. Penn/Antietam are key of loops and makes connections with adjacent future projects. neighborhoods. Other priorities are to improve the riverfront festival site, establish new signature parks in the central ƒ The Schuylkill River Heritage Area’s major focus in the metro riverfront and at Confluence Point, improve and create new region is the continued development and maintenance of the boat landings, and make streetscape improvements. Schuylkill River Land and Water Trails. Recent projects include construction of the trail bridge over Lancaster ƒ The Greater Reading as a Greenway & Recreation Hub Avenue, construction of the Brentwood Trailhead, re- partnership consists of the Berks County Conservancy, alignment of the trail between Lancaster Ave and the RiverPlace Development Corp., Schuylkill River Heritage Brentwood Trailhead, installation of signage, installation of a Area, PaDCNR, Berks County Planning Commission, and Heritage Gateway at RACC, and completion of the the City of Reading. The partnership’s goal is to protect, Feasibility Study to continue the Schuylkill River Trail north connect, and improve the natural treasures in the metro from Reading to Hamburg. Once completed sections of the region, make them easily accessible for recreational use, SRT are transferred to the County of Berks, the primary and promote them as a key component to the quality of life focus of SRHA will then become the extension of the trail pursued in Greater Reading. Since the overall vision of north from downtown Reading. SRHA has developed a these individual entities is similar, the HUB partnership was Sign Design Guideline Manual to create a consistent visual formed to coordinate the efforts of its partners in element and message for the land and water trail’s implementing the vision project by project. interpretive and wayfinding signs in the Heritage Area. The guidelines outlined in the manual provide a flexible ƒ The Initiative for a Competitive Greater Reading (ICGR) is framework for SRHA partners to develop signs that can be an organization composed of a range of private sector, customized for their individual sites. Municipalities with public sector and civic leaders formed to shape a parks/trails along or near the SRT are encouraged to use competitive economic strategy for Greater Reading. One of these signs. The manual is available by contacting the its key strategies is to develop the “Penn Corridor”, the area SRHA. that includes Penn Street and Penn Ave. from the City of Reading through West Reading to the Borough of ƒ RiverPlace Development Corporation is a community based Wyomissing, into an entertainment, hospitality and tourism non-profit initiative with the mission “To use the power of the Hub for residents and visitors alike. Creating this vibrant

107 3.3 Metro Region

urban pedestrian-friendly corridor for the arts, culture, dining Ontelaunee and Blue Marsh Lake, both of which are drinking and other entertainment works hand-in-hand with the water sources. Residents have historically lived and worked Schuylkill River renaissance initiative. close to waterways, and it is no different with the water courses mentioned above. Industrial and residential use is common Ecology within their floodplains, posing flood threats. Protection of our water resources is vital in order to enhance our aquatic A special characteristic of this region is that many natural ecosystems and drinking water supplies. Communities within resources and distinct natural communities are within the the region should focus on stream restoration, riparian buffers, Reading Urban Area. Mt. Penn (Antietam Preserve) and floodplain protection, stormwater management and water quality Neversink Mountain frame the urban area, forming its eastern best management practices. and southern boundaries, while the Schuylkill River and its tributaries flow right through the heart of the region. These features provide open space, vistas and environmental education opportunities rarely found in an urban setting. An important characteristic of these mountains is their visibility, as they can be seen from areas throughout the metropolitan area and beyond and they provide a green backdrop to the growing urban and suburban areas. Scenic views and panoramas are also available from atop the mountains themselves. These mountains, along with Irish Mountain, are part of the Reading Prong section of the New England Province and form the western ridge of the Pennsylvania Highlands. Host municipalities should focus on protecting their ridgelines through planning, land use regulation and acquisition. Nolde provides environmental education programs The Schuylkill River and its network of tributary streams are another dynamic natural feature of the region. Water quality in this network is variable, but improving due to environmental Despite impacts on our environment from a growing population, awareness, mine reclamation, groundwater treatment, areas of significant natural value still exist. Significant hubs and stormwater management, and stream bank restoration efforts. nodes identified by our ecological analysis are located along the The waters of the Schuylkill River suffer from mine, agricultural periphery of the region. Blue Marsh, Mt. Penn (including and urban runoff. The aquatic ecosystem of the river should Antietam and Neversink), Lake Ontelaunee, Nolde, and Spring improve with the above-mentioned efforts and the slated Hills hubs and Irish Mountain node exhibit exemplary natural removal of Felix Dam. Tributaries to the river watershed within features and habitat resources that are important for ecological the Metro Region are the Tulpehocken Creek, Maiden Creek, diversity. Conservation of these natural resources is important, Laurel Run, Wyomissing Creek, Angelica Creek, and the and where development is to occur, natural buffers should be Cacoosing Creek. The principal bodies of water in the region are created and care taken to ensure that protected sites do not Antietam Lake, Bernharts Reservior, and portions of Lake become islands surrounded by development. The 108 3.3 Metro Region interconnection of these hubs/node and their corridors is critical Reading Railroad was a major force as it influenced industry, in providing connectivity for both ecological functions and for the labor and politics. The locomotive shops, located in Reading, passage of wildlife. The identified natural corridors that connect set technological standards for the entire railroad industry. The these hubs to each other and to ecological hubs outside the Textile Machine Works, which manufactured knitting and region should also be maintained, through conservation braiding machines, was the first of three companies that formed development subdivision techniques or fee simple and Wyomissing Industries. The two other companies were the easement acquisition. Several of these hubs and corridors Berkshire Knitting Mills, which grew to become the largest full- (Antietam Reservoir, Neversink Mt., Angelica Creek Watershed, fashioned knitting mill in the world, and the Narrow Fabric Little Muddy Creek, and Vinemont Dale) are identified in the Company, manufacturer of diversified narrow fabric goods. The Berks County Natural Areas Inventory for containing prime founders of Wyomissing Industries gave rise to the planned natural communities, animal/plant species of concern or locally community of Wyomissing, the Reading Hospital, the Reading significant geologic features. Special attention should be given Public Museum, and the Buttonwood Street Bridge. to protect these specific resources. As ecological awareness has highlighted the interdependence of all living things, there has Historic resources can be found in every community in the metro been the realization that our natural resources must be carefully region. Each tells a story that spans centuries, gives our conserved to ensure biological diversity.

Heritage

The metro regions heritage took centuries to create with many interacting elements, including Indian and immigrant settlement, agriculture, industrial revolution, architecture, canals, railroads, and multi-ethnic cultural traditions. But, much of the region’s history is tied to the Schuylkill River and its valley corridor. The abundant natural resources and productive soils attracted European settlers to Reading and made it an early bread basket and industrial center for the colonies. The river valley played an important role as a transportation artery carrying goods to and from the Philadelphia market. Topographic barriers defined the The recently restored “American House” along the limits of the City and forced families and industries to develop Penn Street Corridor in Reading north and west shaping Reading’s suburban communities. The canal system, and later the railroad, fueled the growth of communities’ character and are valued by our citizens. The Reading and its suburbs as a major industrial center. The mills metro region has 35 National Register Historic Sites and six and factories employed thousands of people and made Greater National Register Historic Districts. These districts include Reading an industrial powerhouse throughout the 19th and much th bridges, churches, residences, schools, factories, firehouses of the 20 centuries. Two notable industries were Wyomissing and institutional buildings. Additionally, the Gruber Wagon Industries and the Reading Company (Reading Railroad). The Works is a National Historic Landmark. The City of Reading has

109 3.3 Metro Region

created three historic districts (Callowhill, Prince, & Centre Park Preservation of the “environment” is just as significant as that of Historic Districts) reflecting over two centuries of rich any of its parts. Many of the metro region’s historic resources architecture. The City’s Historic District Ordinance protects the have character, variety, craftsmanship, and a human scale often integrity of these three districts. Complicated additions, lacking in today’s construction. Little by little our historic remodeling and restoration require review by the Reading Board resources are threatened or lost by unchecked development, of Historical Architectural Review. The City exhibits a variety of prohibitive costs, neglect and abandonment, misguided architectural styles and elaborate craftsmanship associated with improvements or lack of policies and regulations. Being the its architectural woodwork, ornamental brick and stone masonry, caretakers of this heritage charges us with a responsibility to ironwork and art glass. Unfortunately, many of these protect it for ourselves and for generations to come. architectural details are slowly being lost along with the craftsmanship skills. Private and non-profit organizations have long been promoting historic preservation, but usually concentrate on their own Reading was originally laid out by Thomas and Richard Penn, sons of William Penn, in a rectangular grid pattern of streets characteristic of Philadelphia, but lacked its open green squares. John Nolen produced comprehensive plans for the “Replanning of Reading” in 1910 for the Civic Association of Reading, addressing beautifying Penn Square, grouping public buildings, improving street/bridge network and constructing a bypass, adding playgrounds and parks, and improving housing conditions. Two specific recommendations of interest were “To secure at once for playground purposes as many open spaces as possible, especially in the settled sections of the city,” and “To get possession of the finest natural features around Reading-its mountain-tops, valleys, river-banks, and creeks- and set them aside as public parks.” Leesport Lock House Some of the metro regions boroughs and townships had their beginnings as small crossroad villages when development grew interests. While there is interest in preservation efforts, in the vicinity of inns located for the convenience of the traveler commitment can be inconsistent, and there is a general lack of or developed around a specific industry, lockhouse or railroad coordination and leadership. The County should address these depot. Each community and neighborhood has its own identity problems by supporting a heritage coordinator to coordinate the and character determined by its development pattern, age and interests and efforts of individuals, groups, private and public style of architecture, streetscape and landmarks. Their value sector. This position could offer technical assistance with current becomes apparent when they are viewed as a whole, not as a preservation technology, coordinate preservation programs with series of independent, unrelated structures. economic development programs, review ordinances, help

qualify sites for listing on the register, assist with district certification, apply for federal/state loans and grants, be the 110 3.3 Metro Region liaison between local, state and federal agencies, assist with enhancing these historic resources with the intent to increase inventories and maintaining a historic survey data base, tourism. There are extensive historic resources throughout the maintain a list of contractors who have skills required for metro region. Each community should evaluate their resources preservation work, prepare public education information, and and determine their own preservation strategy. Historic coordinate heritage tourism strategies, etc. The County’s preservation tools can be found in Chapter 2, Section 2. To Tulpehocken Creek Valley Park System has extensive historic compliment these local efforts, the County Heritage coordinator structures, museum collections and the County sponsors may organize regional or countywide preservation and tourism heritage festivals. Attention should be given to improving and efforts.

Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source Metro Region Matrix

Anticipated Revenue Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Source

Schuylkill River Greenway Land & County of Berks should take Water Trails/Parks- ownership of completed sections of a)determine need for additional staff, Complete development the Schuylkill River Land Trail- equipment, and maintenance budget, of trails and associated Thun Section as an expansion of etc to accommodate additional parks to establish the the County Park System. County Short term County of Berks responsibilities; assess SRGA Bridge spine for a continuous should take responsibility for the Inventory Report, determine bridge trail network, and create trail itself with host municipalities inspection intervals/maintenance riverfront taking responsibility for parks the recreation/heritage trail may pass through. tourism opportunities

b) explore partnerships to assist with Short term County of Berks maintenance responsibilities

Short term-Mid c)negotiate transfer of trail with SRGA County of Berks, SRGA term Short term-Mid d)explore options to expand trailheads County of Berks term and locate new trailheads

111 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

e)pave trail,where apropriate in urban Mid-Long term County of Berks areas

Short term- f)participate with SRHA Trail Council to BCPC, BCP&R ongoing create/maintain a unified trail system

County of Berks should hire a county-wide Greenway Trail Schuylkill River Coordinator with the primary Short term County of Berks, State County of Berks, State Greenway Con't purpose to implement the greenway/trail recommendations contained in this plan

Realign Schuylkill River Trail a) construction-estimated completion between Brentwood Drive and Short term SRGA State Grants 2007 Lancaster Ave b) landscape Brentwood Trailhead and Short term Lancaster Ave. pedestrian bridge- SRGA estimated completion 2007

Pave existing trail- may need Upgrade Schuylkill River Trail RDC, SRGA, County of temporary improvements till PennDot between Old Wyomissing Rd and Short term Berks, Cumru, City of determines Rt 422 redesign; RACC bridge Reading coordinate with property owners

Extend First Ave to Old Wyomissing Rd and construct Cumru, West Reading, bridge over Wyomissing Creek Determine feasibility; coordinate with Long-term City of Reading, County of w/provision for the Schuylkill River PennDot Rt 422 redesign Berks, RDC, SRGA Trail ; develop Window on the Water Park

a)prepare underwater pier stability Completed study

112 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

b)transfer ownership of bridge to Short term County and secure an easement for RACC, County of Berks trail thru RACC

City of Reading, RACC, Short term c)stabilize bridge County of Berks

Make improvements to RACC Pedestrian Bridge carrying the d)prepare detail design and County of Berks, SRGA, Schuylkill River Trail over the Immedite engineering for bridge/landings RDC, City of Reading, Schuylkill River, and secure an improvements West Reading, Cumru easement for Schuylkill River Trail thru RACC property e)construct improvements to bridge RDC, SRGA, County of Mid-term and landings Berks

Maintain the Schuylkill River Schuylkill River Heritage Area Gateway at RACC Ongoing SRGA, RACC Greenway Con't and explore need for additional gateways

Develop Philosopher's Landing Short term a)acquire property from RACC City of Reading, RACC Park

Short term b)prepare design and engineering RDC, City of Reading

Immed-Mid-term c) construct amphitheatre/park/trail RDC, City of Reading

Complete missing Schuylkill River BCC, RDC, SRGA, a)acquire property from Norfolk Trail link from Philosopher's Short term County of Berks, City of Southern Landing to Dana Memorial Park Reading

35,000 DCNR, 35,000 Short term b)prepare trail design construct trail RDC

113 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

Develop Confluence Point Park as County of Berks, City of a County Park (extension of Short term a)transfer property to County Reading Tulpehocken Creek Valley Park)

b)prepare master plan; explore relocating the Schuylkill River Trail to a Schuylkill River newly constructed pedestrian bridge County of Berks, City of 20,000 DCNR, 20,000 Short term Greenway Con't over the Schuylkill River connecting Reading, RDC County Dana Memorial Park to Confluence Point Park

Mid-term c) prepare design and engineering Co. of Berks Mid-term d)construct park/trail Co. of Berks

a)identify trail alignment (see Extend Schuylkill River Trail north SRGA with support from Feasibility Study); acquire property through metro region from Mid-long term host municipalities and where necessary; construct Schuylkill Ave. Bridge County of Berks trail/trailheads; sign trail

b)evaluate additional maintenance and operation costs; explore partnerships Long-term to assist w/maintenance, transfer SRGA, County of Berks completed trail to County as part of County Park System

a)coordinate with Muhlenberg Twp and their development of Jim Dietrich Park; phase development in accordance with Incorporate Schuylkill River Trail Short term park master plan; Muhlenberg Muhlenberg, SRGA into Muhlenberg's river front parks Greenway Plan recognizes park as a SRT trailhead w/facilities and water access

114 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source b)coordinate with Muhlenberg Twp and their maintenance of existing parks (Kelly's Lock Overlook, Pioneer Grove, Ongoing Laurel Run Community Park, Felix Muhlenberg, SRGA Dam Park) and their development of Riverside Basin Park and Rivervale Meadows Park

Schuylkill River Explore development of whitewater Determine feasibility/location and Long-term Greenway con't park prepare master plan

Develop/improve boat landings for the Schuylkill River Water Trail at Short term a)Kerper's Landing City of Reading, UGI multiple locations including:

b)Jackson's Landing at Heritage Park City of Reading

Mid-term c)Confluence Point Park Co. of Berks

d)Epler's Landing State

e)Jim Dietrich Park Muhlenberg

f)Pioneer Grove Muhlenberg

g)SRGA Rickenbach Rd. Property SRGA

h)SRGA Leesport Landing SRGA

115 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

Establish visual access of the river Host Municipalities, by thinning areas of vegetation to Short term PennDot, RDC, create select views Volunteers

Expand the marketing and the advertising of the Schuylkill River Reading & Berks County Schuylkill River National & State Heritage Area a)Refine regions tourism marketing Mid-term Visitors Bureau, SRHA, Greenway con't Land & Water Trails to stimulate strategy RDC local and regional economies through heritage tourism Short term, b)Develop/maintain trail guide for the SRHA Ongoing Schuylkill River Trail Mid-term, c)Develop/maintain metro region trail Visitors Bureau, RDC ongoing guide

Explore options to encourage the private sector to provide trail head commerce and outdoor recreation Short term, Private sector, RDC, Host

services along the Schuylkill River ongoing Municipalities Water and Land Trails and tributary trails

Install uniform wayfinding and a)install signs (Trail Blades, Trailhead, interpretive signage for region-wide Directional Highway) on Schuylkill land/water trails, parks, heritage Short term, William Penn River Trail (Thun Section -Reading to SRGA resources using the Schuylkill ongoing Foundation Grant Pottstown-Est. completion 2007; River Heritage Area sign design install interpretive signs in the future) guidelines b)install uniform signs in parks along Ongoing Host municipalities the SRT

116 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source Improve visitor services through the provision of pedestrian amenties, including handicapped access, lighting, benches, trash Ongoing receptacles, restrooms, bike racks, gateways, interpretive exhibits, trail heads, brochure/maps where appropriate

Strengthen connections between neighborhoods and the trail Ongoing network with universally accessible pedestrian friendly streetscapes

Complete tributary trails/resources that a) improve/construct trail link from Develop Angelica Creek Trail Short term City of Reading directly connect to Angelica Park to Schuylkill River Trail Schuylkill River Trail

BCC, City of Reading, PA DCNR, Cumru, b)conduct feasibility study for Cumru, Kenhorst, Nolde Alvernia College, Short term extending trail from Angelica Park to Forest EEC, Alvernia William Penn Nolde Forest EEC College Foundation

c) design and construct trail from Mid-term Angelica Park to Nolde Forest EEC

d)conduct feasibility study for extending trail from Nolde Forest EEC Long-term to Sovereign Sports Park and Horse- Shoe Trail

117 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source Complete tributary trails/resources that Part of Berks Co. OSRAC Grant to connect to SRT con't Link Schlegel Park to Schuylkill Construct paved trail approx. 500 ft by Short term City of Reading City($23,545), in-kind River Trail 10 ft wide. Est. completion 2007 service from City, UGI, RDC

Pa DCNR, County of Wyomissing Creek Trail-Link a)City acquire easement from RDC, BCC, Wyomissing Berks ($12,038-CDBG), Wyomissing Parks trail system to Short term Wyomissing Valley Jt.Munic. Authority V. Jt. Auth., City of RDC, Wyomissing Jt Schuylkill River Trail (Est. completion 2007) Reading , County of Berks Authority

RDC, City of Reading, b)improve trail from Museum Rd to Part of Berks Co. West Reading, Parkview Rd; construct trail on OSRAC Grant to Wyomissing, Wyo. V Jt. Short term acquired easement and under RR City($23,545), in-kind Auth., Reading Hospital underpass to SRT (Est. completion service from City, UGI, Reading Public Museum, 2007) RDC; State UGI

Reading Public Museum, c)renovate Reading Public Museum Reading Hospital, Ongoing grounds, with improved connection to Reading School District, Reading Hospital Campus West Reading, City of Reading, Wyomissing

d)improve other trail segments in Wyomissing Park trail system, as Ongoing necessary , with improved connection to Wyomissing School District facilities e)conduct feasibility study for Mid-term extending trail to Mohnton

118 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

Develop West Shore Trail North, connecting to the Schuylkill River County Redev. Auth. Trail at the RACC Bridge and a)acquire land; determine ownership RDC, County of Berks, acquiring Mt Top and Short term proceeding north with access to (West Reading) West Reading Rdg Co properties, the Bertolet Dock and Penn Street OSRAC funding Bridge

Mid-term b)prepare feasibility study RDC, West Reading

Mid-term c)prepare design and engineering Mid to Long- d)construct trail/boardwalk term

Develop Neversink Connector Complete tributary Trail linking Neversink Mt. trail BCC, City of Reading, trails/resources that system to Schuylkill River Trail via Short term a)conduct feasibility study RDC connect to SRT con't Heritage Park & Reading Riverfront Park

Part of Berks Co. OSRAC Grant to Short term-mid- b)acquire property/easements (Est City of Reading, BCC, City($23,545), in-kind

term completion 2007 for one easement) RDC service from City, UGI, RDC for initial easement acquisition

Mid-term c)trail design and construction

119 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source Develop Reading's, West Reading's, and Wyomissing's a) improve stability, function and hospitality and tourism resources pedestrian friendly streetscape of the PennDot, City of Reading, (arts, culture, dining, retail, Penn Street Bridge; dependent upon Short term West Reading, RDC, entertainment) along the Penn results of engineering study to ICGR Corridor into a single entertainment determine Penn St. Bridge destination, providing a link to the replacement or repair Schuylkill River Trail

b) provide coordinated events, City of Reading, West Short term, marketing, map/brochure, and uniform Reading, Wyomissing, ongoing signage, lighting, pedestrian friendly RDC, ICGR streetscape along Penn Corridor

Link Barbey's Playground Trail to Short term Est. completion 2007 City of Reading Schuylkill River Trail

Part of Berks Co. Improve connection between a)improve trail connection by striping OSRAC Grant to Union Canal Trail and Schuylkill Short term and signing a bike lane on Blair Ave. City of Reading City($23,545), in-kind River Trail (Est. completion 2007) service from City, UGI, RDC

b)coordinate with design/construction Co. of Berks, City of Mid-term of Confluence Point Park Reading

Link Muhlenberg Twp's Laurel Run Linear Park/associated parks and Mid-term proposed Stoudt's Ferry Bridge Road Trail to Schuylkill River Trail

120 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

Establish Freedom Trail, linking Union Canal Trail and Blue Marsh Lake to Lake Ontelaunee trail Long-term private sector network, with a connection to the Schuylkill River Trail

Complete tributary Link Leesport recreational facilities trails/resources that Mid-Long term Boro of Leesport to Schuylkill River Trail connect to SRT con't

Strengthen connections between neighborhoods and the trail Short term, Municipalities network with universally accessible ongoing pedestrian friendly streetscapes

Install uniform wayfinding and interpretive signage for region-wide land/water trails, parks,heritage Ongoing resources using the Schuylkill River Heritage Area sign design guidelines

Improve visitor services through the provision of pedestrian amenties, including handicapped access, lighting, benches, trash Ongoing receptacles, restrooms, bike racks, gateways, interpretive exhibits, trail heads, brochure/maps where appropriate

121 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source Complete other trail network development Develop Lock 54 Trail, linking with an emphasis on Angelica Creek Trail to Lock 54 RDC, SRGA, Cumru, City important community & located on SRGA-Mifflin Arm Mid-term a)conduct feasibility study of Reading school resource property with spur trail to viewing connections, as well as area of Lock 49 regional connections b)explore transfer of SRGA-Mifflin Arm Mid-term property to Cumru and development as a park

Provide trail connection from St. Joseph Medical Center to Berks Hospital, County of Short term County Heritage Center/Union Berks,Bern, landowner Canal Trail

Develop Spring Twp trail network in accordance with Twp greenway plan and provide connections to Ongoing Spring Twp Union Canal Trail, Horse-Shoe Trail, Wyomissing Creek Trail, Nolde Forest EE Center

Link Lake Ontelaunee trail network Maidencreek, Ontelaunee, Mid-Long term to Willow Creek Greenway City of Reading, PennDot

Improve/create trail links between BCC,Co. of Berks, City of Antietam Preserve & Mt. Penn Mid-term Reading Preserve

Link Mt. Penn Preserve to Mid-term City of Reading, BCC Neversink Mt. via urban trail

Link Neversink Mt. to Exeter's Mid-term Improve trail and signage Exeter Township, BCC River Trail

122 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

Complete other trail a) construct 2.5 mile trail as per master Construct Muhlenberg Rail Trail Short term Muhlenberg networks con't plan

b)explore extending trail north to Ontelaunee, Maidencreek, Short term Blandon, along the existing rail corridor Muhlenberg, railroad

c)explore extending trail south to City City of Reading, Mid-term of Reading, along the existing rail Muhlenberg, railroad corridor and to Mt. Penn Preserve

County of Berks should construct Execute contract for construction, and Blue Marsh Connector linking Federal Transportation Short term complete construction; estimated County of Berks, PennDot Union Canal Trail to Blue Marsh Enhancement Program completion 2007 trail network

County of Berks should renovate a)maintain a capital improvement plan existing county park facilities within Short term, that adequately maintains/renovates County of Berks the Tulpehocken Creek Valley ongoing county park facilities and historic Park resouces

Short term, b)prepare/update master plans for County of Berks ongoing parks c) install wayfinding and interpretive Ongoing signage using SRHA sign design County of Berks guidelines d)explore relocating administration and Short term maintenance operations to Heritage County of Berks Center

e)explore acquisition of additional land County of Berks, adjacent Short term at Heritage Center for expansion and landowners to buffer historic resouces

123 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

County of Berks should evaluate Use Berks County Parks and and refocus mission of Berks Short term Recreation Peer Review, September, County of Berks County Parks and Recreation 2006 Department

Explore providing a direct connection between the proposed Appalachian Mt Club, Highlands Trail and the Metro Long-term Highlands Coaliation Region's trail network and destinations

a)identify critical sidewalk corridors Improve connectivity in urban and Short term, between neighborhoods, employment Safe Routes to School suburban sidewalk systems-create Municipalities ongoing centers, community facilities, and Program walkable environments cultural resources

b)develop critical sidewalk corridor program, addressing maintenance of existing sidewalks, missing sidewalks, Ongoing crosswalk safety, traffic calming devises, ADA accessibility, and lighting where appropriate

c)create community gathering places, Ongoing where appropriate

Promote improvement to existing roadways to accommodate safe a)identify critical on-road bicycle bicycle use (refer to Bicycle and corridors between neighborhoods, Pedestrian Transportation Plan for Ongoing Municipalities, PennDot employment centers, community Berks County, dated March 2002, facilities, and cultural resources prepared for Reading Metropolitan Planning Organization)-

124 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

b)develop critical on-road bicycle corridor program to implement Ongoing roadway-based improvements-add bicycle lane when repave

Install uniform wayfinding and interpretive signage for region-wide land trails, parks,heritage Ongoing resources using the Schuylkill River Heritage Area sign design guidelines, where appropriate

Improve visitor services through the provision of pedestrian amenties, including handicapped Complete other trail access, lighting, benches, trash Ongoing networks con't receptacles, restrooms, bike racks, gateways, interpretive exhibits, trail heads, brochure/maps where appropriate

Develop Neversink Mt. Preserve based on feasibility study and a)determine ownership and BCC, County of Berks, Develop new parks and concept plan -preserve ecological operational responsiblities (County of City of Reading, Cumru, maintain/revitalize resources while promoting passive Short term Berks should explore taking over these Lower Alsace, Exeter, Mt. existing parks recreational, scenic, and historic responsibilities) Penn, St. Lawrence resources, including the railroad and resort heritage b)finish acquisition and resolve Short term-mid easement language conflicts (public term access) Short term-mid c)construct trailheads, improve trail

term network d)install wayfinding and interpretive Short term, signage using SRHA sign design ongoing guidelines

125 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source Short term, e)prepare brochure/map and conduct

ongoing marketing campaign Long-term f)construct visitors center

City of Reading, County of Short term a)complete acquisition Berks, State Short term, b)prepare boundary survey and GIS completed in Co. of Berks assessment 2007 County of Berks should develop c)prepare master plan (maintain Antietam Preserve as a County equine access) and determine Park -preserve ecological DCNR, County of Berks, Short term additional staff and maintenance costs resources, while promoting passive Lower Alsace ; explore partnerships to assist recreational, environmental w/maintenance responsibilities education, and scenic resources

County of Berks, Lower Short term d)repair dam Alsace, State

e)make improvements as Immed-Mid-term County of Berks recommended in master plan f)install wayfinding and interpretive Immed-Mid-term signage using SRHA sign design County of Berks guidelines g)prepare brochure/map; explore Immed-Mid-term coordinating with City to include Mt. County of Berks Penn Preserve

Resolve ownership of Earl Trust BCC, City of Reading, lands on Neversink Mt. and Mt. Short term County of Berks, Bank Penn

County of Berks should explore acquisition of additional land Short term County of Berks adjacent to Leesport Lockhouse

126 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source Develop Shiloh Hills Park by phasing development in Ongoing Spring Twp accordance with master plan

Re-construct Angelica Short term City of Reading Park/Environmental Center

Maintain/improve resources within Mt. Penn Reserve - preserve Develop new parks and ecological resources while Short term-mid maintain/revitalize a)prepare master plan City of Reading promoting passive recreation, term existing parks con't limited active recreation, scenic and heritage resources

b)restore/maintain Pagoda; explore Short term accessory use to provide economic City of Reading sustainability c)explore designating Skyline Drive City of Reading, Lower Short term and Duryea Drive as Pennsylvania Alsace, Alsace Byways

Potential funding thru Short term, d)restore/maintain stone walls along Pa Byways Program,

ongoing Skyline Drive Transportation Enhancement

e)improve Skyline Drive overlooks, Short term, and restore views by thinning ongoing vegetation f)maintain/improve existing active Short term, recreational facilities, camp located City of Reading ongoing within preserve g)explore development of trail/trailhead network on historic gravity railroad with Mid-term links to recreational facilities within City of Reading, BCC preserve, adjacent parks, Reading School District facilities and to the City

127 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source itself

h)install wayfinding and interpretive Short term-mid signage using SRHA sign design City of Reading term guidelines i)prepare brochure/map of preserve; Short term-mid explore coordinating with County to City of Reading term include Antietam property

Bern Township should explore acquiring Cross Keys and Stoudt's Short term Bern, State Ferry Desilting Basins for recreation/preservation purposes

Explore options to enhance First City of Reading, Reading Short term Energy Stadium Phillies Organization

a)municipalities should focus on the provision of local close-to-home Municipalities should recreation and greenways; prepare/update greenway, park Short term, municipalities deficienct in local Municipalities and recreation plans consistent Ongoing recreation land should add with this Plan land/facilities or explore regional solutions/partnerships b)municipalities should offer a full variety of affordable recreation Short term, programs; municipalities with deficient Municipalities Ongoing recreation programs shuold explore participating in adjacent municipal programs

128 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

c)municipalities should develop an ongoing capital improvements program Ongoing Municipalities with scheduled maintenance/upgrades to their existing recreation resources Short term, d)municipalities should explore need Municipalities Ongoing for community centers

e)municipalities should seek county, state, federal, private grants, corporate Ongoing Municipalities sponsorships and partnerships for greenway planning and development

f)municipalites should require the public dedication of land for Develop new parks and park/recreation purposes through the maintain/revitalize Short term Municipalities subdivision process and the option for existing parks con't construction of recreation facilities, fees in-lieu thereof or a combination g)municipalities should explore Short term, adopting an Official Map reserving Municipalities Ongoing lands for public park/recreation purposes h)municipalities should support little Ongoing league/youth programs and other Municipalities service organizations

Install uniform wayfinding and interpretive signage for region-wide land trails, parks, heritage Ongoing resources using the Schuylkill River Heritage Area sign design guidelines, where appropriate

129 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source Improve visitor services through the provision of pedestrian amenties, including handicapped access, lighting, benches, trash Ongoing receptacles, restrooms, bike racks, gateways, interpretive exhibits, trail heads, brochure/maps where appropriate

Municipalities, school districts, little league/youth organizations should Ongoing explore or continue to share facilities

Swimming pool associations B. C. Center for should explore partnerships to Short term Community Leadership, assist with joint purchasing, etc pool assoc.

Explore the need for and develop Ongoing BCC, municipalities community gardens in urban areas

Expand heritage initiatives-promote a greater understanding of Establish/expand heritage tourism Short term, a)Implement the Reading Railroad RCT & HS our history, heritage opportunities as an economic tool ongoing Heritage Museum Development Study resources and the value of protecting them

1)enhance existing interpretive center Mid-term at Temple Station

2)develop interpretive center in Reading as the southern terminus of Long-term the Museum Complex and acquire a use agreement for use of the Richmond Street Industrial RR Tracks

130 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

b)implement long-range expansion Ongoing Mid-Atlantic Air Museum planned at Mid Atlantic Air Museum

c)develop self-guided walking/driving Historical Society, Visitors Ongoing tours that highlight historic themes or Bureau, Municpalities locations

d)provide interpretive heritage exhibits/signage for significant Expand heritage historical resources (river/canal, Ongoing initiatives con't industries, Mt Penn and Neversink resorts, Carsonia Park, architecture, etc.) e)expand upon heritage related Ongoing festivals/events

a)County of Berks should explore creating a position for a Heritage Resources Coordinator with county- wide responsibilities; role would Promote leadership, cooperation County of Berks, Heritage Short term include historic preservation planning, among heritage stakeholders Stakeholders facilitate collaboration of stakeholders, technical assistance, data management, education, heritage tourism b)Historical Society of Berks County should explore expanding their mission Short term Historical Society of BC to include county-wide vision and historic preservation responsibilities

c)Heritage stakeholders should Historical Society of BC, Short term, coordinate programs and events and Heritage Stakholders, ongoing marketing Visitors Bureau

131 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

Identify, and assess heritage resources and create and maintain Short term, Local Historical Societies, a)survey heritage resources an inventory of resources for use ongoing Municipalities by all stakeholders

Short term b)create GIS database of inventory BCPC

BCPC, Local Historical Ongoing c)maintain inventory Societies, Municipalities

d)promote continued nomination of Ongoing significant properties/districts to local, Heritage stakeholders state and National Register programs

a)develop regulations/policies that protect heritage resources; develop land use regulations that require new Strengthen municipal planning Short term, construction to compliment efforts to encourage continued Municipalities ongoing surroundings (develop design integrity of historic resources guidelines), encourage adaptive reuse, make easier to rehabilitate, discourage demolition b)develop/expand façade improvement Ongoing programs to enhance important Municipalities streetscapes c)promote revitalization efforts in commercial core and surrounding Ongoing residential neighborhoods of historic Municipalities downtowns by adopting/maintaining Main Street and Elm Street Programs d)create Historic Districts/HARB(Historic Architectural Ongoing Review Board) where there is intregity Municipalities and concentration of significant resources

132 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

a)capital improvement plan should address maintenance/rehabilitation of County of Berks should enhance Expand heritage Short term, historic structures within the County their historic resources located County of Berks initiatives con't ongoing Park System, as well as museum within the County Park System collection/archive management, exhibit maintenance

b)take advantage of historic assets/tourist attractions at Heritage Center; explore development of Mid-term Visitors Center for Wagon Works and County of Berks Canal Center, and Wagon Display Structure; determine additional staff needs

Preserve ecological Protect/conserve ecological corridors/resources- environments of Irish Mt., Spring provide a seemless Short term, Host municipalites, Hills, Nolde, Blue Marsh, Schuylkill connectivitiy of resources ongoing landowners Palisades, and Lake Ontelaunee within the ecological and their connecting corridors corridors/hub network

Implement consistent Revise municipal land use ordinances protection/conservation land use Short term, to implement CZIP; encourage County of Berks,

standards to provide a regional ongoing conservation development design, and municipalities strategy for resource conservation use of conservation easements

Municipalities, Berks Re-establish lost riparian buffers to Short term, a)coordinate stream County Conservation promote the corridor's ecological ongoing restoration/stabilization projects District, Trout Unlimited, health and seemless connectivity BCC

133 3.3 Metro Region Feature Opportunity/Action Priority Status Next Steps Partners Anticipated $ Source

b)add riparian buffer protective measures into zoning and Short term Municipalities subdivision/land development ordinances

Short term, a)adopt/implement Act 167 Plans, and Municipalities, County of Improve water quality ongoing updates Berks

Short term, Municipalities, County of b)implement MS 4 projects ongoing Berks

Short term, Municipalities, County of c)promote use of stormwater bmps ongoing Berks

Restore tree cover along streets, in a)establish/maintain Shade Tree parks and other public lands in Ongoing Municipalities Programs communities with low tree cover b)explore partnerships for sharing Ongoing Municipalities arborists

a)County should distribute any Protect Natural Areas Inventory Ongoing updates of the inventory to County of Berks sites municipalities

b)municipalities should incorporate the Short term, Natural Areas Inventory into their Municipalities ongoing planning documents/process

Provide floodplain regulations that exceed the federal and state minimum guidelines with the intent Short term Municipalities of maintaining floodplains in their natural state

134 3.3 Metro Region

Notes: Priority Status Short term-1 to 3 years Mid-term-3 to 7 years Long-term-7+ years

BCC-Berks County Conservancy, RDC-RiverPlace Development Corp., SRGA-Schuylkill River Greenway Assoc.(managing entity), SRHA-Schuylkill River Heritage Area (marketing name), ICGR-Initiative for a Competive Greater Reading, RCT & HS-Reading Company Technical & Historical Society

135 3.3 Metro Region

136

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CACCOSSING PENNWYN 724 KLINES CREEK ef SAINT MARY'S Recreation Facilities TRAIL PLAYGROUND SHILLINGTON Trail Network REC AREA READING PICNIC GROVE MEMORIAL PARK ANGELICA Hierarchy Ownership Categories LAND SCHUYLKILL RIVER TRAIL Interstate Federal MANOR G/C TO: BIRDSBORO/ MOHNTON Intercounty PLAYGROUND PHILADELPHIA State READING FLYING HILLS Regional SHILOH HILLS PARK CUMRU MOHNTON ARCHERY BASEBALL FIELD County CLUB Local SHILLINGTON WARREN Municipal WATERSHED HOUSE Proposed Intercounty 01222 PARK FLYING HILLS G/C Non-Profit NOLDE FOREST Proposed Regional GAMELANDS 274 SHEARER'S MOHNTON BOY ENVIRONMENTAL Private GROVE Proposed Local VINEMONT GOUGLERSVILLE SCOUT CAMP EDUCATION CENTER SPRING FIRE CO. Water Trail CAMP PLAYGROUND INDIANDALE Potential Regional Connection FLYING HILLS HERB TEXTER MOHNTON FISH/GAME Potential Local Connection FITNESS CNTR 568 Regions STARLIGHT SKATING PROTECTIVE ASSOCIATION ef Limited Access Highway GAMELANDS 274 Municipal Bounds 625 ef railroad2020 CHAPEL HILL G/C Streams DENVER AUTHORITY SOVEREIGN SPORTS PARK LEDGEROCK G/C ROBESON

ef568 ef272 Prepared by the Berks County Planning Commission HORSE-SHOE with The Berks County Parks Department TRAIL The Natural Lands Trust SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS The Berks County Conservancy 568 REGION LANCASTER COUNTY BRECKNOCK ef PA DCNR Steering Committees and Numerous Stakeholders

Thanks to All

GREEN HILLS SPORTS CAMP Berks County Greenway, Park and Recreation Plan, 2007 UPPER BERN PERRY UPPER TULPEHOCKEN RICHMOND Ecologic Resources:

CENTRE MAIDENCREEK FLEETWOOD Metro Region ROCKLAND

ONTELAUNEE LEESPORT JEFFERSON

PENN

BERNVILLE RUSCOMBMANOR

MUHLENBERG

BERN

NORTH HEIDELBERG LAURELDALE ALSACE ·

OLEY Miles 0 1 2 4

HEIDELBERG

LOWER HEIDELBERG LOWER ALSACE

ROBESONIA

READING

Legend WERNERSVILLE WYOMISSING WEST READING Ecologic Modeling CUMRU MT PENN ST LAWRENCE 1 - High Value LOWER ALSACE SINKING SPRING 2 Major Interchange 3 !( CUMRU EXETER 4 Limited Access Highway 5 Municipal Boundaries SOUTH HEIDELBERG 6 Major Highways 7 SPRING KENHORST Railroad SHILLINGTON 8 9 Streams AMITY 10 - Highest Value Regions

MOHNTON

CUMRU

Prepared by the Berks County Planning Commission with The Berks County Parks Department The Natural Lands Trust BIRDSBORO The Berks County Conservancy ROBESON PA DCNR Steering Committees and Numerous Stakeholders UNION Thanks to All BRECKNOCK UPPER BERN 59 Berks County Greenway, Park and Recreation Plan, 2007 79 PERRY UPPER TULPEHOCKEN Factory District 63 RICHMOND Centre Park Kindt's Corner District 14 Historic Resources: 54 85 Historic District Queen Anne District 74 53 24 68 Metro Region 80 60 CENTRE MAIDENCREEK FLEETWOOD Meinig ROCKLAND Glove 47 Thomas Blue Mountain & Factory 58 King Penn 26 District District Penns Reading Railroad LEESPORT 78 Common 19 ONTELAUNEE Ricktown District 65 81 72 86 District JEFFERSON 77 66 82 51 50 69 Reiser-Shoemaker 64 73 61 PENN Farm 84 67 48 71 Berkley 17 BERNVILLE 57 6 Callowhill Parkline District 31 29 Historic !( District 2 RUSCOMBMANOR 70 District Prince 10 Riverfront 83 Fox Farm District District 55 62 Tulpehocken Creek Historic7 D5 ist 76 City of Reading !( MUHLENBERG BERN NORTH HEIDELBERG 8 35 LAURELDALE 5 ALSACE 3 County · Farm N!(o.1 !( OLEY 21 Reeser Farm Antietam Lake Miles !( !( 0 1 2 4 13 40 !( & Watershed 23 41 !( HEIDELBERG !( Union Canal 1 Janssen !(12 16 22 Historic !( Factory District LOWER HEIDELBERG 15 District !( Centre Park Historic Dist LOWER ALSACE ROBESONIA Cacoosing Valley Rural Historic Kissinger Church !( Legend Distr!(ict READING Historic Sites Major Interchange 9 !( !( 45 20 National Historic Register Listed WCEityS o!(Tf ReEaAdDinIgN, G Limited Access Highway WYOMISSING MT PENN National Historic Register Eligible 42 SCeUe MInsReUt Major Highways WERNERSVILLE 37 !( 44 ST LAWRENCE Other Sites* 7 27 Municipal Bounds !( Historic Districts SINKING SPRING Laurer's 18 Streams 34 LOWER ALSACE National Register Listed Farm Railroad EXETER National Register Eligible !( CUMRU Regions SOUTH HEIDELBERG 33 Ruth !( !( !( Farm 43 36 KENHORST SPRING SHILLING11TON * includes sites identified within surveys conducted by one or 30 Ridgewood more of the following groups: Pennsylvania Museum and 25 !( Historic Councel, Berks County Conservancy, George Meiser Farm 38 AMITY and local historical societies.

MOHNTON CUMRU

Prepared by the Berks County Planning Commission !( with The Berks County Parks Department The Berks County Conservancy BIRDSBORO PA DCNR ROBESON Steering Committees and Numerous Stakeholders BRECKNOCK UNION Thanks to All Simmerman !( Fitterling Farm Farm Schuylkill Berks County Greenway, Park and Recreation Plan, 2007 UPPER BERN River PERRY UPPER TULPEHOCKEN Greenway RICHMOND Greenway Network: Lake Ontelaunee Fleetwood Metro Region Northkill CENTRE MAIDENCREEK FLEETWOOD Greenway Willow Creek ROCKLAND

Leesport ONTELAUNEE LEESPORT JEFFERSON

PENN

BERBNeVrInLvLiElle Irish Mt. RUSCOMBMANOR

Schuylkill Palisades Little Manatawny MUHLENBERG

BERN Laureldale Antietam/ NORTH HEIDELBERG Blue Marsh Highlands Greenway Oley LAURELDALE Youth Recreation Center ALSACE · Poole Sanctuary

OLEY Miles Tulpehocken Creek Valley Park 0 1 2 4 Legend HEIDELBERG Greenway Priority Corridor !( Major Interchange 1 Greater Reading Limited Access Highway LOWER HEIDELBERG 2 LOWER ALSACE Major Highways 3 RRoObBeEsSoOnNiaIA Railroad Greenway Hubs Mt. Penn/ Streams Ecological READING Antietam/ Regions Cacoosing Wyomissing Neversink Destination/ Ecological Valley WEeRNrnEReSrVsIvLLilEle Destination WYOMISSING WEST READING Greenway Nodes CUMRU MT PENN STS LtA. WLRaEwNreCnEce RiverPlace LOWER ALSACE SiSnIkNinKgIN GS pSrPinRgING Ecological

CUMRU EXETER Destination/ Ecological

SOUTH HEIDELBERG South Mountain Exeter Trails South Mt./ Shillington Destination Highlands Greenway SPRING KENHORST SHILLINGTON Municipal Boundaries Kenhorst Daniel Boone AMITY Lower Allegheny MOHNTON

CUMRU Schuylkill River Greenway Mohnton Nolde Prepared by the Berks County Planning Commission with The Berks County Parks Department Spring Hills Allegheny Greenways Birdsboro The Natural Lands Trust To Denver BIRDSBORO The Berks County Conservancy ROBESON PA DCNR Steering Committees and Numerous Stakeholders Adamstown UNION Thanks to All BRECKNOCK To Appalachian Trail via Horse-Shoe Trail