The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) has awarded $5.7 million in grant funding through the Urban Investment Fund (UIF) Grant Program to support five community revitalization projects in Camden. The grants are aimed at rehabilitating buildings and improving public spaces in the city, which experienced economic challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Governor Phil Murphy commented on the initiative, stating, “The pandemic deeply affected municipalities throughout the state, especially in urban neighborhoods where foot traffic sharply declined. By investing in the renewal of New Jersey’s most impacted communities, we can strengthen small businesses, promote job creation, and revive vibrant main streets. Camden plays a vital role in our state’s economy, and the NJEDA’s Urban Investment Fund will help ensure the city’s ongoing growth and prosperity.”
NJEDA Chief Executive Officer Tim Sullivan emphasized the agency’s commitment to aiding communities most affected by the pandemic. “Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, the NJEDA remains committed to supporting communities hardest hit by the pandemic by ensuring they have the tools and resources needed to recover. Across the state, the Urban Investment Fund helps catalyze economic growth to create stronger, more vibrant downtowns,” said Sullivan. “The funds awarded to Camden will stimulate inclusive economic development in key commercial corridors, generating jobs, aiding local businesses, and fostering sustained prosperity through impactful investments.”
The announcement was made at Sheila Roberts Park in downtown Camden. Planned improvements include better access to parks, upgraded plazas and sidewalks, enhanced safety features, and new amenities for families.
Jeffrey Nash, Camden County Commissioner, described the funding as significant for local development: “The city of Camden is teeming with opportunity and this allocation of $5 million will be a game changer in terms of boosting the local economy and improving the use of our public spaces. We are extremely grateful that NJEDA sees the value in investing in projects such as these and we cannot wait to work with the City of Camden, Camden Community Partnership, and our other community partners to transform this city into something spectacular.”
Camden City Mayor Victor Carstarphen highlighted ongoing investments: “Parks are more than playgrounds and fields—they are places where memories are made, where friendships are formed, and where a community takes root. We are firmly committed to improving the quality of life in our neighborhoods, and our parks play a huge role in that endeavor. We are leveraging over $150 million dollars of investment already made in our parks. Thank you to the Camden County Board of Commissioners, Camden Community Partnership, and to the NJEDA for this funding commitment. This will help bring a vibrant energy back to our open spaces.”
Camden Community Partnership (CCP), working with city officials on revitalization strategies for public spaces following pandemic-related setbacks for local businesses, received one of these grants. Dana L. Redd, President and CEO of CCP said: “We are deeply grateful to the New Jersey Economic Development Authority for awarding Camden Community Partnership this transformative Urban Investment Fund grant. This grant allows us to continue revitalizing our public spaces and commercial corridors in ways that reflect the strength, creativity, and resilience of our community. With this support, and the continued partnership of the city, county, and nonprofit organizations, we take another powerful step toward realizing the full promise of our great city.”
The UIF Grant Program supports eligible municipalities—such as Camden—in their efforts to revitalize key commercial corridors through building rehabilitation projects or improvements to public space use.
Senator Nilsa I. Cruz Perez (LD-5) commented on broader impacts: “This investment will not only bring much-needed improvements to our parks and public spaces but it will also help strengthen the economic and social fabric of Camden,” she said.
Assemblyman William Moen (LD-5) added: “This NJEDA funding demonstrates the State’s commitment to City of Camden and reinforce[s] City’s remarkable progress… Every dollar will support and elevate Camden’s outdoor spaces…”
Assemblyman William Spearman (LD-5) stated: “This significant investment from NJEDA marks a major milestone for Camden… These projects will not only enhance our parks… but also spark economic growth…”
The UIF Grant Program was established in March 2024 for revitalizing commercial corridor areas within select municipalities including Newark; New Brunswick; Passaic; Paterson; Trenton; as well as Camden—cities identified by high population density adjusted for commuters along with high municipal distress according to 2023 data.
Funding comes from American Rescue Plan State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds.
