Mayor’s Message: Michael Mignogna
It has now been a year since the new Virtua Medical Campus opened on Route 73 in Voorhees. The $481 million complex sits on a 120-acre site and has been an economic infusion for our community. The project has brought 1,000 additional jobs to Voorhees and generates hundreds of thousands dollars in tax revenue for both our municipality and our schools. The hospital is attracting related businesses such as medical offices, restaurants and hotels. The project has also included a major upgrade to our sewer infrastructure.
What will happen to the former Virtua facility on Evesham Road? This is a question often posed to me and other members of the Township Committee. Virtua has no immediate plans for the future use of the site. However, Virtua has determined that it is more cost effective to raze the old buildings than to maintain them in their current condition. Virtua had considered imploding the old hospital, but determined it was better to demolish the old facility in the traditional manner.
Virtua is finalizing their demolition plans and has included our Police Department, Fire Department and other Township entities in the process to insure safety and to minimize any traffic issues. Representatives of Virtua will be meeting with neighbors in the area surrounding the former hospital campus to share information and answer any questions about the process.
Virtua expects to begin the demolition in early June and anticipates the process will continue through the end of the year. Demolition work will occur Monday through Friday during daytime hours.
Virtua plans to maintain most of the parking lots but will plant grass in the areas of the former buildings.
The Township will continue to share information as we receive it from Virtua.
* * In recognition of its 85 years serving South Jersey, the week of May 13–18 has been declared American Automobile Association Week in Voorhees. A proclamation was presented at AAA Headquarters in recognition of the accomplishment.
** The 4th Annual 5K Victorious Run/Walk will be held on Sunday, May 20 at 9 a.m. at Silver Lake at the Paintworks Corporate Center, 10 Foster Avenue in Gibbsboro. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Entry fees are $20 for adults and $10 for students from grades 1 through 12. Children under 5 are free. There is an additional $5 charge for race day registration. To register online visit www.arvf.org. For more information, visit the website or call 856–784–0615. The Alicia Rose Victorious Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of teenagers struggling with life threatening illnesses by installing teen lounges in pediatric hospitals.
** Voorhees Township will once again offer discount tickets to Morey’s Piers in Wildwood and Clementon Lake Park. Tickets may be ordered online through our website at www.voorheesnj.com. Click on the appropriate link and follow the instructions. Morey’s tickets may also be purchased at the office of the Township Clerk. Tickets are available to residents and non-residents. Additional information is available on our website regarding ticket prices and payment.
