Business Buzz
Sometimes the most important real estate transactions are not measured by dollars and cents, but by the positive impact they will have on a community for generations to come. That is certainly the case with the recent purchase of the former Oak Avenue School property located at 2100 Oak Avenue in Northfield by Archway Programs.
The school, originally constructed in 1969, has long been a recognizable landmark in Northfield.
Since 2004, the property had been owned and occupied by the Jewish Federation of Atlantic and Cape May Counties, serving as a center for educational programming, community events, youth activities, and cultural and religious programs.
Unfortunately, the building had remained vacant for approximately two years, leading many residents to wonder what the future would hold for the five-acre campus. Numerous proposals were discussed, including residential development, daycare facilities, and other potential uses.
After an extensive search for the right buyer, Archway Programs stepped forward with a vision that many believe is a perfect fit for both the property and the community.
Headquartered in Atco, New Jersey, Archway Programs has established itself as one of the regions most respected organizations dedicated to serving children and adults with intellectual, developmental, behavioral, and learning disabilities. The organization plans to transform the Northfield property into a specialized educational facility that will complement its existing network of schools and services throughout southern New Jersey.
The story of Archway Programs is truly inspiring. What began in 1965 as a modest summer camp known as Camp Happy Times has evolved into a comprehensive organization serving thousands of individuals and families. Founded by Dr. Irving Packer and his wife, Estelle, the program was born out of a simple but powerful realization—there were not enough services available for children with disabilities.
Over the past six decades, Archway has expanded dramatically while remaining committed to its original mission. Today, the organization provides Early Intervention services for children from birth to age three, helping families establish a strong foundation during the most critical stages of development.
Archway also operates a network of specialized schools that serve students from ages 3 through 21. These include facilities in Atco, Evesham Township, Camden, Vineland, and Hamilton Township and Sewell Campus. Through these programs, students receive individualized educational services designed to help them achieve their highest potential.
In addition, Archway’s popular Just for Kids & program provides before- and after-school childcare services at dozens of schools throughout the region, helping working families while creating a safe and supportive environment for children.
A major milestone occurred in 2013 when Archway Programs became affiliated with Woods System of Care, one of the nation’s leading nonprofit organizations focused on healthcare, education, and advocacy for individuals with disabilities and behavioral challenges. Together, the organizations serve more than 40,000 individuals and employ approximately 7,000 dedicated professionals.
Today, Archway Programs itself serves more than 1,800 individuals annually with a workforce exceeding 650 employees. Their commitment to personalized care, innovative educational services, and compassionate support has earned them a reputation as one of New Jerseys premier organizations in the field.
The future plans for the Northfield campus are exciting. Archway intends to open an Approved Private School for Students with Disabilities at the site by July 2027. The school is expected to primarily serve students from Atlantic County and will focus on educating children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The facility will have the capacity to accommodate approximately 60 students and is projected to employ between 50 and 60 staff members. The expansive five-acre campus will provide valuable outdoor space for recreation, physical activities, and educational programming that enhances the overall learning experience.
For Northfield residents, this represents more than simply filling a vacant building. It means bringing meaningful educational opportunities to the community, creating quality jobs, preserving a well-known neighborhood landmark, and providing essential services for families throughout Atlantic County.
In an era when many vacant institutional properties struggle to find productive new uses, the transformation of the former Oak Avenue School into a vibrant educational center is welcome news. Congratulations to Archway Programs, the City of Northfield, and the many families who will benefit from this investment for years to come.
As always, it is encouraging to see organizations investing in our communities while making a positive difference in people lives. This appears to be a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-226-6680 or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
