Berks County Industrial Development Authority Reviews Third Street Shopping Center Plans

The Planning Commission Meeting held on August 26, 2025, in Reading, Pennsylvania, focused on several key developments and initiatives aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure and addressing blighted properties.

The meeting commenced with a motion to table the PSO Luzerne Street subdivision land development plan, which was unanimously approved. The commission expressed optimism about progress on this matter in the upcoming month.

Next, an update was provided regarding the Third Street Shopping Center sketch plan review. Jeremy, the executive director of the Berks County Industrial Development Authority (IDA), attended to discuss the acquisition of the property for the shopping center. He outlined the complexities involved in redeveloping the site, particularly the environmental challenges that had delayed the acquisition process for two years. The IDA is collaborating with Schumann Development Group to develop a 15-acre shopping center while retaining 5 acres for industrial purposes. The commission was assured that environmental compliance is being prioritized in the development plans.

Following this, Paige Brookings from the Redevelopment Authority presented a request for reuse recommendations for three blighted properties. The commission voted to recommend the reuse of 228 Moss Street for multifamily residential development and 645 Locust Street and 311 Hollenbach Street as single-family residences. These recommendations aim to revitalize the neighborhood and ensure responsible ownership of the properties.

The commission also reaffirmed several land development plans, including the Berkshire Building and the Nineteenth Ward Pump Station, ensuring that all conditions outlined in previous reviews were met.

Additionally, the commission discussed a request from the borough of West Reading for a letter of support for a grant application aimed at rehabilitating the trail system along Playground Drive. The commission agreed to support the application, emphasizing the need for the trail to accommodate city maintenance vehicles.

Lastly, the commission reviewed zoning amendments for short-term rentals, recommending their adoption to the city council. This amendment aims to regulate short-term rentals more effectively within the city.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of upcoming meetings, including a workshop scheduled for September 16, 2025, and a regular meeting on September 23, 2025. The commission expressed satisfaction with the progress being made in the city and the collaborative efforts among various authorities to enhance urban development.