Reading, PA Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)

Density Bonus. A density increase may be allowed when the proposed development provides workforce housing or an alternative to workforce housing. For each workforce housing unit, one additional market rate unit shall be permitted, up to a 20% increase in dwelling units.

(h)   Alternative to Workforce Housing Units.

1.   As an alternative to the requirement of subsection B.(2)(b) to provide for workforce housing within a proposed development, the applicant may contribute a fee, develop off-site workforce housing units, or provide a combination thereof in lieu of constructing workforce housing units within the proposed development, upon approval by City Council, based on recommendations from the Planning Commission and Community Planning and Development staff.

2.   Off-site workforce housing units. The applicant may provide the same number of workforce housing units as required under subsection B.(2)

(b) at another site within the TOD Overlay District, as agreed upon by City Council. As a condition of approval, the City shall require that construction of the off-site workforce housing be completed no later than completion of the market rate units. If the off-site workforce housing units are not completed within this timeframe, final occupancy permits shall not be granted for the number of market rate units equal to the number of workforce housing units that have not been completed.