Garden State Times

On Wednesday, the Board of Commissioners attended a check presentation ceremony with Congressman Donald Norcross. The Borough of Gibbsboro received $750,000 to further the redevelopment of the Paint Works superfund sites around Silver Lake. This funding will specifically aid in transforming the former John Lucas House into an event space.

The site has a history dating back to the mid-1800s when it was operated by the John Lucas Company and later by Sherwin-Williams Company for paint manufacturing. This led to significant environmental issues due to waste discharge into Hilliards Creek, resulting in contamination as reported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. An environmental remediation project commenced on August 30 at this location and is expected to last about 12 months.

Commissioner Melinda Kane commented on the ongoing efforts: “The newest remediation project just continues the concerted effort to correct the decades of environmental degradation that has plagued this area,” she said. “And now, with $750,000 of federal funds secured by our congressman, we can transform this area into something beautiful and safe for residents to enjoy. We are very excited to see this revitalization effort continue and cannot wait to see the finished product.”

The funding will support lead paint remediation, barrier-free access construction, kitchen and restroom facilities development, and repair of structural deficiencies at the John Lucas House. Once completed, it will serve as a venue for private and municipal events on Silver Lake.

The broader revitalization plan includes constructing 163 townhomes set to begin in early 2025 and transferring three lakefront lots to Gibbsboro Borough for developing a lakefront restaurant district.