WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Bob Menendez and Cory Booker today announced $175,524,000 in federal financing from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program to improve critical facilities in Burlington and Gloucester Counties.

“This federal investment will ensure South Jersey communities have continued access to quality health care and higher education,” said Sen. Menendez. “I appreciate that the Biden Administration is focusing critical investments in South Jersey and I look forward to working with them to ensure all of our communities have the resources to thrive.”
“Addressing the economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic must remain a top priority,” said Sen. Booker. “I am pleased to see successful federal programs like this make critical investments in South Jersey communities at a time when our state needs it most.”

Deborah Heart and Lung Center will receive $88,174,000 in USDA financing to upgrade all double-occupancy, in-patient rooms to private suites. This will help improve patient and visitor safety, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds will also provide an in-patient tower of individual patient suites. This project will benefit nearly 800,000 rural residents.

The Gloucester County Improvement Authority will receive $60,980,000 in USDA financing to create a fossil park in Mantua Township, which contains prehistoric animal remains from more than 100 million years ago. The park will complement Rowan University’s new College of Earth and Environment and provide a space to train students in the growing field of green technology.

The Authority will also receive a separate $26,370,000 loan to expand and renovate the Student Center on the main campus of Rowan University. The expansion will add 17,500 square feet to the Student Center.

 

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