ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Officials in Allentown and Reading are focusing on dangerous and illegal behavior in city parks and waterways, where rising heat has drawn large crowds.
The cities are reporting increased incidents of illegal swimming, unauthorized gatherings and public safety hazards at popular park sites. In Allentown, activity has surged at Jordan, Canal, Trout Creek and Fountain parks, while Reading’s Riverfront Park has become a particular hotspot.
Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk and Reading Mayor Eddie Morán issued a joint warning to the public Tuesday: respect local park rules or risk fines.
“The gatherings at Riverfront Park have gotten out of hand,” Morán said. “The noise, the trash, the swimming in the river. We have rules, and we’re going to enforce them to keep everyone safe. I’m especially frustrated because a lot of this is coming from our own community. We need to do better. Riverfront Park is not a beach.”
Morán said he was glad to partner with Mayor Tuerk in addressing what he called a “shared challenge.”
“This isn’t just a Reading problem — our cities are dealing with the same issue, and we’re standing together to say it won’t be tolerated,” he said.
Tuerk emphasized that Allentown offers safe, legal alternatives for summer recreation and warned that violators face a $100 ticket.
“Allentown is the beating heart of the Lehigh Valley, and a destination for families looking to enjoy our incredible park system,” Tuerk said. “We welcome visitors who respect the natural beauty of our city and our city’s rules. Give our first responders and parks employees a break, and give everyone a chance to enjoy Allentown.”
Under Allentown’s Ordinance § 425-17, swimming or bathing in creeks or waterways is prohibited unless an area is officially designated for that purpose and currently, no such locations exist.
Officials said the rise in illegal activity has stretched resources thin. Police, fire and rescue crews in both cities have responded to repeated calls involving unsafe swimming, overcrowding, littering and noise complaints. In some cases, emergency rescues have been required.
Both cities will increase enforcement and coordinate efforts between police, park staff and fire departments. Outreach and education campaigns are also planned to increase public awareness.
“This is a regional issue,” the mayors said in a joint statement, “and we’re working together to protect public safety and preserve the beauty of our shared communities.”
