By Steffen Klenk
Last Thursday, the National Aviation Research and Technology Park (NARTP) broke ground on its second building in Egg Harbor Township. Located on 58 acres, and a short distance from the William J. Hughes Technical Center and Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), the facility is said to provide expanded academic and industrial partnerships that will enable innovation and collaboration, in addition to much needed economic and job opportunities.
Since the grand opening of its first building in 2019, the National Aviation Research and Technology Park (NARTP) in EHT has blossomed into a hub for innovation and collaboration. With the aviation sector growing at rapid speed throughout Southern New Jersey, and growing symbiosis between government, academic, military, and corporations, NARTP Chairman Mark Loeben says Thursday’s groundbreaking is leading to other aviation ecosystems in surrounding counties. “This really shows that the NARTP has come a long way in such a short amount of time.”
Hundreds of attendees and local dignitaries were on-site for the official groundbreaking ceremony. Among the guest speakers included Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson. While the region has benefitted greatly from tourism, Levinson says tenants are showing up and providing full-time employment opportunities in a growing sector. “We’re not just dedicating a building; we are building an industry, a future for our area, with good solid-paying jobs.”
With close access to the FAA Technical Center, ACY, the 177th Fighter Wing, and the Coast Guard Training Center, State Senator Vince Polistina says supporting aviation is a no-brainer. “This is going to pivot the entire South Jersey economy, to diversification and additional opportunities.
Polistina credits the work being done, on both the state and federal level, to secure necessary funding to turn the vision into reality. “We don’t focus on party; we focus on getting things done.”
Recorded and written remarks were provided by Congressman Jeff Van Drew and Senator Cory Booker respectively.
NARTP has established profound partnerships with local colleges and universities and the Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA) to expand opportunities for area employees. Atlantic County Institute of Technology (ACIT) has adapted its curriculum to build an educated workforce. Interested college students can also enroll in aviation studies courses at Atlantic Cape Community College.
Upon completion, the second building is slated to consist of two floors, complete with high-speed connectivity, research facilities, and a multimedia auditorium, comprised at 40,000 square feet. A total of seven multi-story buildings are planned to envelop the facility.
In addition to aerospace and aviation opportunities, plans are also in place to build a brand new 111-room airport hotel, at the corner of Delilah and Westcoat Rd. The first phase of construction is slated to begin in 2024. With a growing industry, Leo Schoffer, Esq. of Schoffer Enterprises says the site will include space for additional hotels. “This park, and what is happening around us, is a success story for our community.”
Steffen Klenk is a photographer and multimedia journalist who enjoys capturing the eclectic moments of shore life. You may contact Steffen at shorelocalsteffen@gmail.com.
