The City of Reading has announced it has been selected as one of 54 projects across 24 states to receive a grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund’s Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program (ORLP), administered by the National Park Service (NPS). The $672,000 grant, the largest single grant investment ever from the ORLP, will support the revitalization of the Hillside Pool property.
The City of Reading submitted a concept plan to transform the long-closed Hillside Pool site into a vibrant community space. The plan calls for removing the derelict pool and replacing it with a modern splash pad, shaded cabanas, and numerous upgrades to create a family-friendly atmosphere. Additional improvements include new operational, concession, and restroom facilities, on-grade parking, and full ADA accessibility.
“Investing in parks and recreation has been a key priority for me and my administration, as these spaces are vital to reducing youth violence and building a stronger community. The revitalization of the Hillside Pool property will turn it into a family-friendly destination, enhancing the quality of life for all residents. We are grateful for the support of the National Park Service, City Council, and our partners for helping make this project a reality” said Mayor Eddie Morán…