Commissioners Open Camden Athletic Fields

The Camden Athletic Fields, a complex that will be used at all levels of athletic competition in South New Jersey, was opened over the weekend with the officials from the City of Camden, Rutgers-Camden, Congressman Donald Norcross and the Rowan University Rutgers-Camden Board of Governors.

“This brand-new athletic complex will expand the availability of open playing fields not only to the Rutgers-Camden athletic teams but will meet the needs of our city and county residents as well,” said Camden County Commissioner Jeff Nash, who serves as the liaison to the Parks Department. “This project will be transformative to the waterfront and will be an asset for the children of Camden. The impact of this park will be felt for generations to come in the city and is now one of the premiere complexes in the region.”

The $16 million project was funded by the city, county and Rutgers-Camden University. Work included the demolition of the former Campbell’s Field and the construction of a turf baseball field and multipurpose field, an eight-lane track, pole vault and steeple chase and a clubhouse complete with locker rooms, bathrooms and training rooms. The facility also includes new parking areas with bike racks and sports lighting.

“Rutgers is proud to be a partner in helping to launch this county-owned and -operated facility,” said Antonio D. Tillis, chancellor of Rutgers University–Camden. “These playing fields will provide a home base for our NCAA and club sports. This complex also will provide the families of Camden and Camden County with opportunities to exercise, play and build healthy communities.”

To that point, some of the fields will be used this summer by the East Camden Little League.

“Being able to provide the youth of this city with a top of the line baseball field to play on, that will make a lasting impact on them as they grow up and develop as athletes,” said Falio Leyba-Martinez, who runs the league. “These fields are a great investment for the children of Camden.”