Unlocking Potential: Planning the Next Chapter for Reading’s Eastern Gateway

Reading’s Eastern Gateway District has long served as a transition between downtown and the Route 128 corridor. Today, it is poised to become a vibrant mixed-use neighborhood that welcomes new housing, jobs, and public spaces while strengthening connections to Main Street, the commuter rail, and surrounding neighborhoods.

The Town of Reading engaged Form + Place as the prime consultant to lead this planning initiative, with JM Goldson supporting community engagement. Together with The Engineering Corp, the team is analyzing zoning, infrastructure, and redevelopment opportunities to unlock the district’s potential for transit-oriented growth.

JM Goldson is designing and facilitating a series of public forums, focus groups, and surveys to ensure that community members have a voice in shaping the district’s future. At the first open house, residents shared aspirations for a walkable gateway with a mix of housing options, strong pedestrian and bike connections, and public gathering spaces. Many also expressed a desire to see redevelopment that builds on Reading’s strengths while addressing pressing needs for affordability and economic vitality .

The planning effort builds on earlier studies, including the Economic Development Action Plan and Reading’s 2020 Vision, while taking a fresh look at how zoning and design guidelines can support new opportunities. The outcome will be a comprehensive framework for redevelopment that balances feasibility with community values and creates a welcoming gateway into town.

With Form + Place leading design and feasibility analysis, and JM Goldson ensuring an inclusive community process, the Eastern Gateway initiative is set to deliver a thoughtful, forward-looking vision for Reading’s next chapter.