FPA Attends Camden County Ground Breaking Ceremony
French & Parrello Associates (FPA) was proud to attend the groundbreaking ceremony for the Newton Avenue (CR 604) Signal and Alignment Improvement Project, hosted by Camden County on Monday, April 20th. Located in the City of Camden, the project extends from Kaighns Avenue (CR 607) and South 4th Street to Pine Street and South 7th Street. Representing a $6 million infrastructure investment, the project will deliver critical transportation and streetscape upgrades that prioritize safety, enhance multimodal connectivity, and strengthen access between the Lanning Square and Cooper Plaza communities and the Bergen Square neighborhood.
FPA provided preliminary and final design services for the corridor with a focus on improving safety, operations, and overall user experience. The project includes reconstruction of four signalized intersections with upgraded equipment, improved alignments, enhanced crosswalk visibility, and safer turning movements, along with roadway resurfacing, updated geometry, and modern signage and striping. Drainage improvements and green infrastructure, such as rain gardens supporting CCMUA’s Long Term Control Plan, help reduce stormwater runoff, minimize ponding, and enhance system resilience, complemented by sewer system upgrades and supporting geotechnical and environmental studies.
The design also prioritizes pedestrian safety and accessibility through ADA-compliant curb ramps, improved sidewalks and driveway aprons, enhanced crossings, and streetscape features like pedestrian lighting, street trees, and decorative elements, creating a safer, more walkable, and connected corridor. Construction is anticipated to continue through Summer 2027.
Members of the FPA project team attended the event alongside City of Camden Mayor Victor Carstarphen, City Council President Angel Fuentes, Council Vice President Arthur Barclay, Councilwoman Jeanette Robertson, and community leader Maria Perez. Also in attendance were Camden County Commissioner Al Dyer, Deputy County Administrator Robert Harris, Director of Public Works Christopher Costa, and Camden County Engineer Jim Winkowski.
This milestone marks the beginning of a comprehensive corridor improvement effort designed to significantly reduce crash risk, improve intersection safety, and create safer, calmer, and more predictable travel for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users. These improvements support the City of Camden’s ongoing commitment to safer streets and continued community revitalization.
Photo Credit: Camden County
