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The Berks County Vietnam Veterans Memorial, located at Reading City Park is set to undergo significant structural repairs. The City of Reading is investing the remainder of the dissolved Corporation funds, supplemented with City Capital Improvement funds, to cover the cost of $16,949.52 for the repairs. The project is expected to take about two months to complete.
The scope of work includes removing the granite stairs, resetting them with the proper pitch, and pressure-washing the entire memorial. New polymeric sand will be installed throughout, with special care taken to avoid any damage to the existing granite. Full-site remediation, including grass seeding as needed, will also be completed.
Mayor Eddie Morán expressed the importance of the memorial, stating, "As a community, we owe a great deal to the men and women who served in the Vietnam War. The Berks County Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a place of reflection and remembrance, and it is important that we take steps to preserve its integrity for future generations." according to BCTV.org.
While the repairs will address the structural integrity of the memorial, it has also come to the City’s attention that some plaques are missing or were stolen. The City is not currently seeking to replace these plaques. However, organizations wishing to replace any plaques are encouraged to contact the City, and the necessary steps will be coordinated for those interested in supporting this effort.