Reading Council Reviews New Pagoda Pavilion Proposal
The proposed 1,200-square-foot pavilion near the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower heads to a city council vote.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Civic
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Pagoda-Skyline has introduced a new plan to construct a pavilion adjacent to the historic William Penn Memorial Fire Tower. The organization intends to fund the project through a partnership with the Blue Mountain Region Sports Car Club of America without utilizing city funds.
Why it matters
The pavilion aims to provide a dedicated space for local events such as the Duryea Hill Climb, annual barbecues, and Easter dawn services. This proposal follows a failed attempt in 2023 when a similar project was rejected over maintenance concerns.
The proposed structure will measure 30 feet by 40 feet and sit 30 feet south of the existing fire tower. Pagoda-Skyline has committed to handle all maintenance responsibilities for the site.
The players
Pagoda-Skyline
This is a local organization dedicated to the preservation and management of landmarks on Mount Penn.
Blue Mountain Region Sports Car Club of America
This organization is a regional chapter of a national car enthusiast group that is collaborating on the funding for this project.
Reading City Council
This is the governing legislative body for the City of Reading responsible for approving or denying municipal land-use projects.
The details
Pagoda-Skyline solidified its maintenance commitment by signing a memorandum of understanding with the city public works department. The space would be available for public rental regardless of residency status.
Timeline
In 2023, the city denied a previous pavilion construction proposal.
The Pagoda reopened in April 2026.
Pagoda-Skyline presented the new pavilion proposal on October 26, 2026.
The City Council is scheduled to vote on the project in November 2026.
Industry Dynamics
The pavilion proposal mirrors a broader trend where non-profit organizations must formalize maintenance agreements to secure municipal approval for public space improvements. This effort marks a departure from previous unsuccessful attempts that lacked similar infrastructure backing.
Once completed, the pavilion will provide a new rental venue available to both Reading residents and non-residents for various events. This project will create a new public gathering space without increasing the tax burden on city residents.
The takeaway
The project emphasizes the importance of formal maintenance agreements when pursuing infrastructure developments on public land. Residents interested in the future of the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower area should monitor the upcoming November council vote.
What happens next
Reading City Council is expected to hold a final vote on the pavilion construction project in November 2026.
Further reading
For more on local development projects, visit the Reading Civic section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WFMZ.
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