By: Follow South Jersey Staff
CAMDEN, N.J. — Local and county officials unveiled the newly renovated Jack Curtis Stadium in Cooper River Park on July 14.
Camden County Commissioner Jeffrey Nash joined mayors from the municipalities surrounding Cooper River Park and local running organizations to open the $1.2 million makeover.
“With the completion of this track, Cooper River Park now has two top tier locations for athletics along with its world-renowned Boathouse used for rowing,” Nash, who serves as the liaison to the Parks Department, said in a press release from the county. “This track can not only be utilized by athletes, but everyday Camden County residents can also enjoy all this location has to offer. These are the types of projects we prioritize because they ensure that all of our residents have access to outdoor recreation.”
The location underwent a complete transformation with the construction a new six-lane track, a sodded field, three shade sail pavilions for shade and seating, water stations, tree plantings, lighting enhancements and curbing and drainage upgrades.
“This project has helped to transform Cooper River Park and will only help to attract even more residents from throughout the County,” Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen said. “I commend the Camden County Board of Commissioners for their continued investment in our tremendous county-wide park system. Physical fitness and wellness play such an important role in our quality of life. This top-notch track is a major benefit and I encourage residents to take full advantage of this great recreational opportunity.”
Pennsauken Mayor Jessica Rafeh said how the project will benefit her community.
“Jack Curtis Stadium has been a true staple of Cooper River Park for many years,” Rafeh said. “And the amazing work that Camden County has done takes this popular spot to a whole new level and benefits both our residents and visitors to our community.”
Jill Chestnut Collins of the South Jersey Track & Field Club was excited about the benefits of the new track opening.
“Our club is thrilled to have the opportunity to utilize such a beautiful, state of the art track and field right here in our community,” Collins said. “These types of athletic facilities will benefit clubs such as ours and might even inspire others to begin their own journey with track and field. We want to thank everyone who was involved in making this project a reality and we can’t wait to get out on this track.”
In April, the Board of Commissioners joined its community partners at the site of the track to unveil a $100 million plan to revitalize the county’s 24 parks, conservation areas and waterways. The new track will work in tandem with this initiative by drawing more residents and visitors to Cooper River Park.
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