Since this is a construction zone, access to the Pagoda grounds will be limited during renovations. The Pagoda will be surrounded by scaffolding and the Pagoda lights will not be operational while new electrical is being installed. Trespassing inside the construction fencing is punishable by law. This is for public safety.

In Spring 2023 the City of Reading had a full-site assessment done on the building and grounds. It was determined that the structure needed a completely new HVAC system, electrical system and plumbing systems to meet code requirements to reopen to the public. Small cosmetic fixes also need to be done to the interior and exterior including paint, wood refinishing, and restoration of some of the building’s unique details. Historical integrity is paramount, and no changes are being made to the layout of the building.

Due to nuisance behavior at the Pagoda, the City of Reading has installed security gates at two locations: Duryea Drive at the traffic triangle with Shearer Road, and List Road’s intersection with Skyline Drive. These gates close automatically at 9pm every night, and reopen again at 7am in the morning. Closing the road overnight is an unfortunate but crucial part of ensuring the preservation of the Pagoda and greater Mount Penn Preserve.

Part of our job as the Foundation is coming up with a sustainable use plan for the operations of the Pagoda after completion of the restoration. We are hoping to have the building open for public walkthrough in Fall 2026 and final operations beginning in 2027.

Three contracts have been awarded in the Pagoda Restoration Project. Warko Group of Reading was awarded $998,918 for the mechanical upgrades, Hirneisen Electric was awarded $1.6 million for the electrical upgrades, and Dolan Construction was given $2.1 million for general contracting. This brings this phase of the project to $4.8 million total.

Reading’s City Council has set aside $3 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to cover the majority of this restoration. The project balance of $1.8 million will come from unspent 2024 capital improvement project funds.

The 2023 site-assessment also covered the exterior grounds and retaining walls. It found that while these stone walls are not currently failing, they will need to be addressed in the coming years to guarantee longevity. The estimated price of this phase was $7 million in 2023.