Photo: Chris Jongkind / Moment / Getty Images
The City of Reading, Pennsylvania, has ordered the emergency demolition of two buildings at 431 and 433 Penn Street due to safety concerns. City officials announced that the structures pose an "imminent risk to public safety" and must be demolished immediately. The buildings, located in the Callowhill Historic District, have been in a state of decay and have been undergoing partial demolition since March.
Reading’s chief building official determined that the buildings were structurally compromised following thorough assessments last week. The decision to demolish was approved by Mayor Eddie Moran, who emphasized the city's commitment to safety and preservation where possible. "This action represents progress for our community," Moran stated. "We are taking this opportunity to clear unsafe, uninhabitable spaces while preserving the pieces of our history that we can."
Efforts are being made to preserve part of the terra cotta parapet of the building at 431 Penn Street, which features the iconic "Reading News" lettering. This section will be salvaged and stored safely. However, due to severe deterioration, no parts of 433 Penn Street can be salvaged. The neighboring structure at 441 Penn Street, which holds architectural and historic value, will remain intact, with measures in place to ensure its stability during the demolition process.
The city purchased the string of five vacant buildings at 431-443 Penn Street for $2.6 million in 2013. Despite plans for adaptive reuse, the buildings were allowed to fall into disrepair. The city had entered an agreement with developer Philly Office Retail for the site, but the deal has not yet been finalized.
During the demolition, Court Street will remain closed between Fourth and Fifth streets, and sidewalks next to the buildings along Penn Street and Court Street will also be closed to ensure pedestrian safety. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution and follow posted signs near the demolition area.