As 2025 ends, the Camden County Board of Commissioners has reviewed several initiatives and developments from the past year. The board focused on community improvement through strategic investments, supportive services, and long-term planning.
Commissioner Director Louis Cappelli, Jr. stated, “We came into this year with bold ideas to enhance people’s lives and make a positive mark on our community. As a board, we have been put here by the voters to build a better Camden County on top of an already solid foundation of accomplishments. From getting kids off the street and into job training programs, or reducing violent crime in the county by 50% over the last 10 years, this board has never shied away from a challenge. That said, we are moving into 2026 with the same attitude to face new challenges head on and lead with bold strokes.”
A notable achievement was recorded during summer 2025 when Camden City experienced its first homicide-free summer in five decades. From June 21 to September 22, no homicides were reported—a 43% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. Cappelli attributed this milestone to unity policing efforts and investments in training and technology that began after restructuring law enforcement in 2013.
The county also saw progress addressing substance use disorder. Between January and November 2025, there were 162 suspected overdose deaths in Camden County—down from 188 during the same period in 2024 and a significant drop from previous years. Social workers have been integrated across public-facing operations such as libraries, police departments, and courtrooms to provide support for residents facing addiction or related challenges.
In line with efforts to address homelessness, two major projects broke ground: the $22 million Martin McKernan Supportive Housing Center offering non-congregate housing and support services at Lakeland Campus in Gloucester Township; and an $8 million Multi-Agency Center in Camden City aimed at connecting individuals experiencing homelessness or substance use disorder with resources.
Following a federal government shutdown late in the year that affected SNAP benefits for some residents and left federal employees without paychecks, Camden County organized food donations totaling more than three tons and launched a “Bridge the SNAP Gap” campaign.
The Mary Ann Wardlow Center for Community Nutrition opened in Blackwood this year as part of ongoing responses to food insecurity. The center expands home-delivered meal capacity for seniors; over one million meals have now been delivered through this program.
Fiscal responsibility remained a focus for the Board throughout an ongoing affordability crisis. The county tax rate was lowered again this year as part of continued efforts to keep living costs manageable for residents.
Infrastructure improvements included launching a $161 million program covering roads, bridges, stormwater drainage, and other upgrades across Camden County. In 2025 alone, more than $81 million was invested in infrastructure projects such as road widening and bridge repairs.
Parks received substantial upgrades under Parks Alive 2025: William G. Rohrer Children’s Playground at Cooper River Park underwent renovations; Von Nieda Park received upgrades; Newton Lake Park saw playground improvements; and a new kayak launch was built on Cooper River’s back channel. Additionally, funds were allocated for municipal recreation facility enhancements ($675,000) and historic preservation projects ($540,000).
Cappelli concluded: “The successes we saw in 2025 are a direct result of years of hard work, planning, and investments in enhancing Camden County. As we look ahead to 2026, we know that Camden County’s future is bright, and we look forward to continuing our work to make this the best place to live in New Jersey.”
