Guzman hosts Policy Committee for tour of Reading businesses
Rep. Manuel Guzman August 17, 2022 | 12:54 PM
READING, AUG. 17 – The House Democratic Policy Committee took a tour of three downtown Reading businesses and held a roundtable with business leaders, local colleges, and the District Attorney John Adams Wednesday morning, hosted by state Rep. Manny Guzman, D-Berks.
“We’re elected by the community we represent, but by serving in the state House, we really represent all the people of Pennsylvania,” said Guzman. “That’s why I felt it was important to host some of my colleagues in Reading and show them some of the businesses in my area that feel the impacts of what we do in Harrisburg.”
Legislators started the tour at the site of a private redevelopment project to create a local food market -- Super Natural Produce, which will be located on North Fourth and Elm Streets in Reading. This market will put an emphasis on farm-to-table produce with reasonable costs.
The second leg of the tour took lawmakers to the Medical Arts Building on N. 5th Street, where the Shuman Development Group is renovating the nearly 100-year-old building into luxury residential apartments and retail space. The high-rise was first built in 1929, mostly used by doctors and dentists. But vacant since 1980, the building will soon offer housing and shopping for the Reading area. This project is being funded in part by a $1.3M RACP grant it was recently awarded.
The final stop of the tour brought attendees to Masano Auto Park, located on Wyomissing Blvd, for a roundtable discussion with local business leaders. First opening in the Spring of 2018, this 300,000 sq. ft. facility is home to the Masano USA Super Center indoor 150 vehicle AutoTorium. It covers 30 acres and employs 300 people. The Masano Auto Group is also heavily investing in the Reading community. They’re currently in the process of testing an aquaponics farm to start generating sustainable produce, as well as cleaning up and installing walking and bike paths in the 18th ward.
“I want to thank today’s hosts for teaching me and my colleagues a little about their operations and projects, and how they will benefit the community,” said Guzman. “We’re looking forward to doing everything we can in Harrisburg to continue supporting these and other businesses so they can thrive and drive our community.”
Photos from today’s tour will be available here.
Information about this hearing and other House Democratic Policy Committee hearings can be found at pahouse.com/policy.