Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
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.
Reading comes together to celebrate with education, unity, and purpose
On Saturday, June 21, the Reading community gathered on the Town Common for the annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival, commemorating the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom.
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 hot summer temperatures this week, the Town of Reading has issued an important public advisory on how to stay safe during heat waves and how to recognize and respond to heatstroke symptoms.
Reading Lions Club to host 40th annual Journey for Sight 5K Road Race and 1-mile walk
The Reading Lions Club and Friends of Reading Recreation are inviting the community to join them for the 40th annual Journey for Sight 5K on Thursday, July 17, 2025.
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.
Please clean your pool: protecting health, safety, and the environment in Massachusetts
As summer heats up in Massachusetts, it’s important for pool owners to remember that regular pool maintenance is more than just a matter of appearance - it’s essential for community health, safety, and environmental protection.
Come to a Community Garden Party this Friday at the Reading Public Library!
Dig into summer with your neighbors at our Community Garden Party! Whether you have a green thumb or just want to enjoy the longest day of the year, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.