Norcross delivers nearly $2M to Rowan, Gloucester County

Congressman Donald Norcross delivered $1.9 million in Community Project Funding to Rowan University and Gloucester County Wednesday to support the research, development and testing of concrete 3D printed housing and critical roadway infrastructure improvements at Rowan’s West Campus. 

Standing with President Ali A. Houshmand and Gloucester County elected officials, Norcross announced the federal support during a visit to the University’s fast-growing West Campus. 

“With this new Community Project Funding, we are marking smart investments that keep South Jersey on the map as a leader in education and innovation,” Norcross said. 

“I always say that my three priorities are jobs, education and security in our nation and our neighborhoods,” Norcross added, “and this funding helps deliver on all three—expanding educational opportunities that prepare the future workforce while improving traffic safety in our communities.” 

In addition to roadway improvements in Mantua Township on the West Campus, the funding includes more than $1 million for additive manufacturing research led by Islam Mantawy, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Henry M. Rowan College of Engineering. 

“It’s about resiliency and affordability, particularly in housing,” Norcross added. “It’s a game changer.” 

Houshmand thanked Norcross for his consistent support while in elected office, first at the state level and again at the federal level. In 2012, Norcross co-sponsored state legislation that designated Rowan as a public research institution. Today, the University is the fastest-growing public research university in the Northeast, now ranked among the top 100 in the nation and one of only two universities with three medical schools.  

“What you have done for this school has been absolutely amazing,” Houshmand said. “Rowan University would not be what it is today without you. Since you have served in elected office, you have played a critical role in Rowan’s rapid rise as a research institution.” 

More than $850,000 in new federal support will supplement state Department of Transportation funding that will continue construction of the extension of Gilbreth Parkway to Lambs Road, parallel to Route 55 in Mantua.  

Gloucester County Commissioner Director Frank DiMarco thanked Norcross for his continued support, which included securing new funding for new firefighting equipment, improvements to a recreational complex and safety upgrades for parks in nearby communities. 

“These investments make our communities safer, improve quality of life and support smart growth across our county,” DiMarco said. 

Gloucester County Commissioner Matthew Weng noted the infrastructure improvements will make travel safer, smoother and more reliable for students, residents and local businesses.

“This is a huge win for Gloucester County and Rowan’s West Campus,” Weng said, “helping us deliver the road and infrastructure upgrades that will support growth for decades to come.”