By Aaron Gantz, Vice President of Economic Development & Strategy
The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance (GRCA) is celebrating a year of significant progress in 2024, marked by economic growth, strategic investments and community-driven initiatives that have strengthened our region. From revitalizing downtown to expanding key industries, 2024 has solidified Greater Reading Pa.’s position for both businesses and people to live, learn, work and thrive.
A major milestone for the City of Reading was its City Revitalization and Improvement Zone (CRIZ) designation. This powerful tool designed to reinvest tax revenue will unlock significant investment for downtown revitalization. Transportation also saw major advancements. The Schuylkill River Passenger Rail Authority made strides in restoring passenger rail service completing the first of three phases of the Intercity Passenger Rail Corridor Identification and Development Program led by the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA). Additionally, the Reading Regional Airport streamlined operations by becoming the sole Fixed Base Operator to better serve the region’s growing transportation needs.
Our community saw significant investments in community spaces that enhance quality of life for residents and attract visitors. The highly anticipated Reading Skatepark officially opened in the City of Reading, quickly becoming a popular destination for skaters of all ages. The GoggleWorks Center for the Arts introduced the Art Park, a vibrant public space featuring green spaces, public art and a variety of amenities. The Reading Fightin’ Phils also made a major splash with the opening of the $45-million Redner’s Event Center at FirstEnergy Stadium, featuring upgraded clubhouses, training rooms and event spaces.
Building on the region’s strong foundation of entrepreneurship and its position as the county’s largest sector in terms of GDP and employment, the manufacturing sector continues to thrive. A prime example of this growth is Reitnouer, North America’s largest manufacturer of aluminum flatbed trailers. The company recently broke ground on a 468,000-square-foot facility in Ontelaunee Township. This project will streamline operations and create up to 200 new jobs, further solidifying the county’s leadership in manufacturing. To support this expansion, GRCA, through its affiliate the Greater Berks Development Fund (GBDF), partnered with the Berks County Industrial Development Authority to provide $2 million in a short-term loan, with Fulton Bank supporting the construction and permanent financing of the project.
In addition to this major expansion, a variety of new businesses opened their doors or expanded across the region, including* A.D. Moyer Lumber, Carmelo’s Pizza & Water Ice, Detail Shoppe, Duck Donuts, Garnet Volkswagen, Halter Landscaping, Hazel’s Coffee & Café, Primo Hoagies, Queen’s Café, Reading Coffee Company, Reading Downtown Food Court home to Pulse Café and Donut Lover’s Boom, Sajal Hot Chicken, Vintner’s Table and Winnie Mochi.
To further fuel economic growth, GRCA and its partners secured critical funding for key community projects.
- $18.75 million in Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP) grants awarded to companies such as fuel growth and revitalization efforts across Greater Reading.
- $500,000 in Main Street Matters funding through the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) was invested into the former Elks Lodge/Trexler Mansion at 47 S 5th St.
- GRCA, through its affiliate GBDF, secured over $720,000 in Local Share Account-Statewide (LSA) funding to support transformative projects, including the historic Strand Theatre in Kutztown, the Hamburg Strand Theater and the Reading Hospital Foundation.
- $6.7 million from Representative Chrissy Houlahan to fund four community projects.
- To support Berks-based companies, GRCA has $3.6 million in funding in the pipeline across programs such as the Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority (PIDA), PA Catalyst Loan Fund, and DCED grants—representing over $2.2 million in total project costs. Since the beginning of 2024, $3.8 million in project lending and grants have been approved—representing a total project investment of more than $62 million.
Looking ahead to 2025, GRCA remains committed to advancing economic growth and supporting businesses of all sizes and industries. Through collaborations with the private and public sectors, GRCA will continue to provide critical support in areas such as financing, site selection, workforce training, leadership development and advocacy for pro-business policies. These efforts will ensure that businesses at every stage thrive in Greater Reading. Building on the successes of 2024, GRCA is excited to continue positioning Greater Reading as a premier destination for business and community growth.
*not a comprehensive list