Leaders from the cities of Allentown and Reading came together Tuesday for a joint press conference to address the growing dangers of illegal swimming and other public safety concerns in local parks and waterways.
Held at Cedar Beach Park in Allentown, the event brought together Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk, Reading Mayor Eddie Morán, both cities’ police chiefs, fire officials, and other public leaders to speak candidly about challenges their communities are facing during the summer months.
“This issue has become a serious problem—not just a nuisance,” Mayor Morán said. “The noise, the trash, the swimming in the river, and occasional disturbances are too much. We’ve tried to be lenient, but enough is enough.”
Morán, who delivered a portion of his remarks in Spanish to directly reach Latino residents, emphasized the importance of following city ordinances. He also noted that Reading has made substantial investments in pools, splash pads, and family-friendly recreation spaces. “There are no excuses,” he said. “We’ve put in the money. The options are there.”
In Reading, Chapters 396-305 and 396-306 of the City Code prohibit disorderly conduct, unauthorized gatherings, and swimming in public waterways. Allentown has a similar law—Ordinance § 425-17—which bans swimming or bathing in creeks and waterways within city parks unless specifically designated. Currently, no natural waterway is designated for swimming in either city.
Reading Police Chief Elias Vazquez echoed the mayor’s concerns, noting the strain large crowds place on public safety. He referenced a previous incident at the Pagoda in which an officer was assaulted during a large gathering. Vazquez said the city is reallocating police assignments, authorizing overtime, and considering additional budget support to help manage the problem.
Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk acknowledged the cultural draw of natural swimming areas, but stressed the need to prioritize safety. “We understand the appeal—this is part of our culture,” he said. “But you’re swimming in the same water that runs off our streets, and that’s not safe. And when our first responders have to perform rescues in these areas, it puts the entire city at risk.”
Tuerk pointed out that large crowds often leave trash behind and overburden park staff. “We have one of the best park systems in Pennsylvania,” he said. “But we don’t have the resources to clean up after everyone. And our workers shouldn’t have to.”
Allentown Police Chief Charles Roca emphasized education alongside enforcement. “This is not just about tickets—it’s about preventing tragedy,” he said, citing the recent drowning of a teenager in Jordan Creek. “We’ve stepped up patrols and added signage, but people need to know what they’re risking.”
Allentown Fire Chief Efrain Agosto said firefighters have responded to more than 60 water-related incidents since new ordinances were enacted. He outlined the physical dangers of natural waterways—such as strong currents, hidden drop-offs, and cold water shock—as well as the emotional toll on first responders who deal with traumatic outcomes.
Council Vice President Cynthia Mota, who helped lead the city’s 2018 effort to ban swimming in creeks, recalled witnessing a near-drowning. “Once you are a mother, you are everyone’s mother,” she said. “That moment changed me forever.”
Both cities reminded the public that swimming in creeks, rivers, or other city waterways is not permitted and that violations could result in fines ranging from $100 to $300. Large, unpermitted gatherings, noise violations, and littering are also subject to enforcement.
Officials encouraged residents and visitors to use city-operated pools and splash pads instead. In Allentown, non-residents can access Cedar Beach Pool for $12. “Don’t let a $100 ticket ruin your summer,” said Tuerk. “Our swimming pools and park pavilions offer safe and affordable options for visitors all summer long.”
“This is not about generating revenue,” Morán added. “It’s about keeping people safe.”
As summer continues, both cities say they will step up enforcement and expand outreach efforts to keep parks clean, safe, and welcoming for everyone.