As 2024 draws to a close, leaders from Camden County are reflecting on a year filled with progress across public safety, healthcare, infrastructure, social services, and business development.
From reducing crime to enhancing community health and infrastructure, 2024 has been a year of transformation for the county.
The Camden County Police Department celebrated its best year yet. Violent crime was reduced almost by 20%, and overall crime was reduced by 8%.
Shootings and homicides decreased by more than 35%, which brings some of the lowest crime numbers in modern history to Camden City.
The year also saw the consolidation of the Woodlynne Borough Police Department into the county system, improving services with a nationally recognized community policing approach.
Healthcare initiatives stood out in 2024. The county launched a first-of-its-kind back-to-school vaccine program, offering free vaccines to uninsured and partially insured children so they were ready for the school year.
Additionally, a significant drop in overdose deaths was recorded, with 188 suspected fatalities by December 14, a 43% decrease from 2023.
The county’s efforts, led by the Department of Health and Human Services and the Camden County Addiction Awareness Task Force, helped reduce fatalities and naloxone administrations.
Infrastructure projects also made great strides. The Kings Highway improvement project, a $10.7 million initiative, began in September and covers Haddon Heights, Audubon, and Mount Ephraim.
The project will enhance safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians.
Meanwhile, a $1.2 million intersection improvement project began in Voorhees Township, focusing on traffic flow and safety.
On the social services front, the Camden County Office of Homeless Services unveiled a six-point plan to eliminate homelessness by 2030.
With the help of community partners, this plan aims to provide shelter and resources to the homeless while preventing future homelessness.
The county also expanded its Project SAVE program, addressing the opioid crisis and supporting mental health treatment with over 10,000 referrals for care.
Business development continues to flourish in Camden County. Holtec International expanded its headquarters by 60,000 square feet, and Cooper University Health Care committed $3 billion to expansion projects.
Virtua Health invested over $250 million at its Lady of Lourdes campus, and Jefferson Health completed significant upgrades to its Cherry Hill campus.
In total, the county added more than $5 billion to its tax-ratable base.
Plus, the Parks Alive 2025 initiative continues to revitalize Camden County’s parks.
The second all-inclusive Jake’s Place playground was built at New Brooklyn Park, and Cooper River Park saw new amenities, including a skatepark and dog park.
The $100 million initiative is transforming the county’s green spaces and ensuring their accessibility to all residents.
At the federal level, Congressman Donald Norcross highlighted key achievements, including a $35 cap on insulin for Medicare recipients and the opening of the “Missing Moves” highway connection between Route 42 North and Route 295 South.
Norcross also secured over $300 million in transportation funding and supported legislation to protect workers and enhance affordable childcare.
Moreover, he introduced a bill to improve access to methadone for those battling opioid addiction, complementing Camden County’s efforts to tackle the crisis.
Looking ahead to 2025, Camden County is poised for continued growth and improvement.
With ongoing infrastructure, healthcare, and social service initiatives, the county remains committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
