In ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown Boyertown, Adrianne Blank from

The new solar-powered, LED-illuminated commun- ity reader board is located at the Town Center park- ing lot on S. Reading Ave. and East Philadelphia Ave.

Building a Better Boyertown partnered with FASTSIGNS® of Pottstown to develop innovative signage to complement the community, attract more visitors and help support local businesses.

            Building a Better Boyertown is a non-profit organization that is working to preserve the historical heritage of the downtown while creating an environment that fosters a dynamic present and future.

            The committee started their journey in 2014 when they sought funding to develop a wayfinding plan for the town with support from the Berks County Community Foundation. Following the 150th Anniversary Celebration of Boyertown, the 150th Anniversary Committee donated their remaining funds to bolster the project. "Without the 150th Anniversary Committee's generous donation and contributions from the Berks Mont Business Association (BMBA) and other anonymous donors, this project would have never been completed," said Blank.

            The highlight of the project is a solar-powered, LED-illuminated community reader board with a map with indexed locations of local businesses. The solar-powered sign is self-sustaining; no trenches were dug for wires and there are no monthly electric bills.

            "There were over 29,000 volunteer hours last year alone on the revitalization efforts," said Blank. "It's everyone working together, volunteers and merchants, who continue to make this town beautiful."

            "I really enjoyed working on this project and all of the collaboration involved--not just with Adrianne and the committee, but designing in conjunction with Ornamental Post & Panel of Pineville, NC and Solar Illuminations of Fort Myers, FL," said Wellen. "We appreciate Ornamental Post & Panel for their work on the fabrication and integration to come up with an innovative solution 

            All the operating components are concealed within the shed roof where they are less likely to be tampered with. To my knowledge, there is not another one like it in the world."

            The committee hopes to install attraction signs near highway exits in the near future. Funds are still being raised for that phase of the project and will involve multiple townships working together.