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Pop Up Park and Pump Tracks

July 2015-September 2016

July 2015
924-28 Penn Street...Before...
Screenshot 2016-09-29 11.42.53_edited
Screenshot 2016-09-29 11.42.25_edited

What's A Pump Track?

A pump track is a continuous loop of dirt berms and “rollers” (smooth dirt mounds) that you ride without pedaling.

 

The name “pump track” comes from the pumping motion used by the rider's upper and lower body as they ride around the track.

What Value Is It Bringing To Reading, PA?

This project has mobilized volunteers to transform a blighted lot into an active community space.

 

Local students earned new bicycles through their work and practiced teamwork to create something that promotes a healthy lifestyle.

 

Local transitioning-youth and adults attended City Council and Planning Commission meetings throughout the project proposal, engaging in and learning about the civic-advocacy and democratic process. 

Volunteers advocated at City Council meetings for signage to be placed in the blocks around the park to make the streets safer for all users, including people who walk and ride bikes.

 

Local adult volunteers gained leadership opportunities by coordinating a major community project and continue to serve as mentors to local youth.

 

The pump track adds to Reading's growing bike culture and is the city's first outdoor bicycle recreational facility.

 

Local students from the elementary school across the street took their education outside, helping to build and maintain the community garden.

THANK YOU

This project is made possible by support from:

 

 

Grant Funding From:

Greater Reading Young Professionals Community Engagement Fund of Berks County Community Foundation

 

Reading Berks Association of Realtors

Pump Track Sponsor:

Riverfront Federal Credit Union

Herb Garden & Sitting Area Sponsor:

Kathy & Dave Kline

Tree Sponsor: 

The Garden Club of Reading

In-Kind Donations From:

Excelente Restaurant

 

Laura Reppert

 

Reading Box Company

 

Susan Hettrick

 

PJ Whelihans, Reading

Special Thanks To:

10th and Penn Elementary School, Reading School District, students and staff

 

City of Reading: 

Reading Housing Authority, Redevelopment Authority and Public Works

 

Fred Heinly

Reading Muhlenberg Career and Technology Center & Mr. Borelli's Class

 

Reading Rentals

 

Reading Bike Hub Crew and Community Volunteers

 

Expertise:

Acoterra LLC

 

Matthew Gantkowski

 

Nan Reinhart

Design:

Dellavalle Designs

 

Ludgate Engineering

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