The City of Reading has announced that the gates and cameras installed on Skyline Drive will become fully operational on Monday, March 31, 2025. The initiative is part of a city-led effort to enhance safety, preserve the natural beauty of the area, and address ongoing concerns from residents and law enforcement.
The decision to install the gates was first announced in November 2024 by Mayor Eddie Morán and City Council. The move came in response to frequent issues, including illegal dumping, loud music, and unruly gatherings at the Reading Pagoda and surrounding areas. With the gates now ready for full implementation, the city aims to create a park-like atmosphere with controlled access.
Under the plan, the gates will close automatically at 9:00 PM each day and reopen at 7:00 AM. Visitors will need to exit the area before that time to avoid potential citations or fines. The gates are located at List Road and Skyline Drive, as well as Duryea Drive and Shearer Road. Each location has been designed to allow vehicles to turn around safely if they encounter a closed gate. Clear signage has also been installed at key locations, including overlooks, the Pagoda parking lot, and both sides of the gates, to inform visitors of park hours and gate closure times.
To ensure public safety, both the Reading Police Department and the Lower Alsace Township Police Department will have remote access to the gates for emergencies. Additionally, security cameras have been installed throughout the area to monitor activity and further discourage illegal behavior.
The city has confirmed that special events, such as the Easter Sunday Mass and the Pagoda Hill Climb, will still be accommodated through Special Event Permits. According to city officials, drivers will face minimal inconvenience as the designated detour route around the gated area is approximately 1.8 miles, matching the length of Skyline Drive’s restricted portion.
“Skyline Drive and the Reading Pagoda are some of our city’s most treasured landmarks, and we want everyone to experience them in a safe and peaceful environment,” said Mayor Morán. “By implementing these measures, we are ensuring that this space remains welcoming while addressing long-standing concerns from residents and law enforcement. We appreciate the community’s cooperation as we take this step toward responsible and sustainable stewardship of our public spaces.”