
Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
July is UV Safety Month: protect your skin from harmful sun exposure
The Town of Reading is reminding residents that July is UV Safety Month, a time to raise awareness about the dangers of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones from sun-related health risks, including skin cancer.
Celebrate the Library’s Summer of Story with Reading Parties and a Story Slam!
Whether you like to tell a good story or read it, the Library’s got you covered this summer with programs for adults and teens.
Town of Reading announces water rates for FY26
Reading Town Manager Matt Kraunelis is pleased to share the Select Board’s recent decisions on water, sewer, and stormwater rates for Fiscal Year 2026. These rates were voted on and finalized following a public hearing and thoughtful deliberation during the Select Board’s June 24 meeting.
Summer swimming safety: protecting our community in and around the water
With summer in full swing, families across Reading are heading to pools, ponds, lakes, and beaches to cool off and enjoy the sunshine. The Town of Reading wants to remind all residents - especially parents and caregivers - of the importance of water safety.
Hot car warning: never leave children, disabled adults, or pets in vehicles
As summer temperatures rise, the Town of Reading is reminding all residents and visitors of a critical safety issue: never leave children, disabled adults, or pets alone in a hot vehicle - even for a few minutes.
Reading launches communication project to better connect with residents
The Town of Reading is committed to strengthening its connection with residents and improving how the Town shares important information about local resources, events, and opportunities. To support this goal, the Town is launching a new communication initiative - and they want your input.
Reading trash and recycling service unaffected by regional work stoppage
The Town of Reading is aware of the recent work stoppage related to ongoing labor contract negotiations between Republic Services and union employees. This labor dispute is currently affecting trash and recycling collection in several neighboring communities, including North Reading and Wakefield.
Upcoming road construction in Reading: what residents need to know
Over the next several weeks, the Town of Reading’s Department of Public Works (DPW), in collaboration with its contractor Lazaro Paving Corp., will begin road resurfacing and construction work on Summer Ave. This work is part of the Town’s ongoing effort to improve roadway conditions and enhance public infrastructure.
June is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
June marks Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, supporting those affected, and promoting early detection and treatment options.
Lowell Street (Rt. 129) paving project continues through June
Paving work along Lowell Street (Route 129) is ongoing and expected to continue through the end of June, weather permitting. The project includes both daytime and nighttime construction, so residents and commuters are encouraged to plan accordingly and use caution in work zones.
Town of Reading opens cooling centers during June 23-24 Heat Advisory
With a Heat Advisory in effect for Monday, June 23, and Tuesday, June 24, the Town of Reading is reminding residents to take extra precautions during this stretch of dangerous heat.
Reading offers free summer pickup for old trash and recycling carts
Do you have old recycling or trash carts that you no longer need? The Town of Reading is making it easy for residents to dispose of them with special curbside collection events this summer.
Mosquito control spraying scheduled in Reading this summer
The East Middlesex Mosquito Control Project (EMMCP) will be conducting mosquito control spraying in Reading this summer using truck-mounted aerosol sprayers of biological larvicide. The effort is part of the town’s annual strategy to reduce mosquito populations and protect public health.
Reading PorchFest this Saturday
Lawn signs are popping up all over town at the 44 venues for this year’s 7th annual Reading PorchFest.
It’s tick season: stay safe and informed about tick-borne illness
As warmer months settle in, it’s officially tick season in Massachusetts. Ticks are more than just a nuisance - they can carry serious diseases that impact both people and pets.
June is Men’s Health Awareness Month: prioritizing prevention and early detection
June marks Men’s Health Awareness month, a critical time to spotlight the unique health challenges men face and to encourage early detection, regular checkups, and open conversations about both physical and mental health.
June is PTSD Awareness Month: understanding, supporting, and finding help
The Town of Reading is recognizing PTSD Awareness Month this June, encouraging residents to learn more about post-traumatic stress disorder, its symptoms, and available treatments. Increasing awareness is a crucial step toward reducing stigma and connecting those affected with the help they need.
Staying safe in extreme heat: heatwave and heatstroke tips for Reading residents
With rising summer temperatures, the Town of Reading has issued an important public advisory on how to stay safe during heatwaves and how to recognize and respond to heatstroke symptoms.
Presence&Co: a new third place in Reading, built for courage, connection, and community
Presence&Co, Reading’s newest community space, officially opened its doors this month, offering something increasingly rare in modern life: a place to slow down, disconnect from technology, and connect meaningfully with others.
Shred the Peak: How RMLD Customers Can Help Reduce Energy Costs and Support Sustainability
The Reading Municipal Light Department (RMLD) offers Shred the Peak, a suite of programs designed to help customers actively reduce electricity usage during peak times. By participating, customers can help lower power supply costs, keep electricity rates affordable, and contribute to RMLD’s non-carbon goals.