Community News
Local news about your town and neighbors
Honoring Indigenous Peoples’ Day: recognizing history, activism, and the path forward
Each year, more cities and states are shifting away from celebrating Columbus Day and instead recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day - a change that acknowledges the harm caused by colonialization and celebrates the resilience, culture, and contributions of Native peoples. Rather than honor a figure with a divisive legacy, this day centers the voices and histories of those who have long shaped, and continue to shape, the land we share.
Reading Democratic Town Committee to host annual “Dinner with the Dems” fundraiser
The Reading Democratic Town Committee (RDTC) invites residents to its annual fall fundraiser, Dinner with the Dems, on Friday, October 17, from 6:00 - 8:00 pm at Old South Church (6 Salem Street, Reading).
Street paving scheduled for King, Prescott, and Washington Streets - October 8
The Town of Reading’s Department of Public Works has announced that roadway reclamation work will begin on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 7:00 am, weather permitting.
Reading DPW announces October cleanup and recycling events
The Town of Reading’s Department of Public Works (DPW) is helping residents prepare for fall with two key events this October focused on seasonal cleanup and responsible recycling.
Public Power Week Open House
The 2025 Power Week Open House is Thursday, October 9, 2025, 3 to 6 p.m. at the RMLD Garage, 218 Ash Street, Reading.
Connected Reading: An Open House for Our Community
Calling All Reading Residents! Whether you're a new resident, remember the days of The Atlantic, or arrived sometime in-between, you’re welcome to Connected Reading: An Open House for Our Community!
Chamber to Host Beer Garden on Reading Town Common Saturday
The Reading-North Reading Chamber is inviting the community to come together for a fall Beer Garden on Reading Common on Saturday, October 11 from 3-7. This event is free to attend.
Street sweeping begins the week of October 6
The Town of Reading will begin fall street sweeping program the week of October 6, 2025.
Residents are reminded not to blow leaves into the street or leave yard waste in piles. The sweepers are unable to pick them up, and debris left in the roadway can clog storm drains and create unsafe conditions.
Eastern Gateway Community Workshop
The Town invites residents to participate in a workshop to continue collecting public input on the Eastern Gateway district.
RMLD releases 2024 Annual Report and Financial Statements
The Reading Municipal Lights Department (RMLD) has released its 2024 Annual Report and Financial Statements, offering residents a comprehensive look at the department’s operations, community engagement, and financial performance. The full report is available to the public on RMLD’s website here.
At the Reading Public Library, celebrate your freedom to read during Banned Books Week!
Catcher in the Rye, Of Mice and Men, Harry Potter, and Captain Underpants are just a few examples of books that have faced attempts to be banned. Celebrate your freedom to read with the Reading Public Library during Banned Books Week.
Friendly reminder from the Tax Assessor’s Office
October is a great time to make sure your RMV profile is up to date! Keeping your information current helps ensure your motor vehicle excise tax bill is accurate and sent to the right place.
September is Prostate Awareness Month
September is Prostate Awareness Month, a time to educate and raise awareness about one of the most common cancers affecting men.
RCTV to Host Fundraising Night at Mandarin Reading
RCTV is inviting the community to join them for a special fundraising night at Mandarin Reading on Friday, October 17, 2025. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal while supporting local community television.
Boston CASA Celebrates Record Growth at New Headquarters Open House
Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) hosted judges, community leaders, and supporters at their new headquarters at 151 Merrimac Street Wednesday evening, celebrating unprecedented growth while highlighting the urgent need for more advocates.
September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Each September, communities across the country recognize Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shed light on one of the most serious cancers affecting women. Ovarian cancer is a malignancy of the almond-shaped organs in the female reproductive system that produce eggs and certain hormones. It is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women in the United States.
MBTA refiles Notice of Intent for Reading Turnback Track Project
The MBTA has submitted a Notice of Intent (NOI) to the Reading Conservation Commission for the proposed Reading Turnback Track Project, aimed at expanding rail service capacity between Reading Station and Boston.
Reading Food Pantry: Fighting hunger together this September
Even in a state with abundant resources, hunger remains a serious challenge. According to the Greater Boston Food Bank, one in three residents in eastern Massachusetts experiences food insecurity — a figure that has remained steady for three consecutive years. Here in Reading, the Food Pantry is working every day to meet that need while building connections that strengthen my community.
Wildlife FAQ
The Town of Reading has received reports about an uptick of coyote attacks on other animals and would like to remind Reading residents about steps you can take to safely coexist with coyotes and other wildlife in our community.
Save the Date! October 27, 2025 - Eastern Gateway Community Meeting
The Town is hosting a Community Meeting at the Reading Public Library on Monday October 27th at 6:00 pm to share the findings and community feedback on the Eastern Gateway – an area along Walkers Brook Drive under consideration for new zoning and growth opportunities. This is a chance to directly hear what residents and neighbors have said to date, as well as to provide your own input and thoughts on the future of this area. We encourage your attendance and are looking forward to continuing the effort together.