HAMILTON TOWNSHIP — Plans for a massive Amazon distribution center at the former Atlantic City Race Course continue moving forward, with local approvals now in place and construction expected to bring hundreds of jobs to the region.
State Sen. Vince Polistina said Amazon has received local site plan approval for the proposed 1.2-million-square-foot fulfillment center, which would be built on the former race track property in Hamilton Township.
"Amazon continues to pursue their approvals," Polistina said during an interview on WOND's Off The Press with Scott Cronick. "They do have their local site plan approval now for the Amazon facility — 1.2 million square feet, two floors — which is going to be a real game changer for the region."
The facility is expected to rely heavily on robotics and automation, creating demand for workers trained in robotics, computer systems and equipment maintenance, in addition to truck drivers and warehouse personnel.
"It'll be primarily robotic," Polistina said. "There will be robots grabbing the packages, but there will be a lot of technical jobs needed to fix the robots, program the robots and do all of the underlying work."
Construction is also expected to generate significant work for local building trades.
"I've talked to some of the contractors who are going to be doing the concrete and everything," he said. "Every indication is it's moving."
According to Polistina, Amazon has also agreed to provide a community fund for Hamilton Township to help offset municipal impacts from the project.
He said the site's proximity to the Atlantic City Expressway, Garden State Parkway and Atlantic City International Airport makes it attractive for future logistics and distribution companies as well.
"I really believe it's going to be conducive for additional development," Polistina said. "There are so many things this area has to offer from a logistics standpoint."
Polistina called the project one of the most significant economic development opportunities in Atlantic County in years.
"If we get a shovel in the ground this year, that'll be a tremendous thing," he said.
About the Author
Karen Johnson
With over 30 years of news experience in major markets like Los Angeles, Denver, and Columbus, Karen now covers our area for South Jersey NewsBeat. She also brings her articulate and conversational news delivery to WOND radio listeners every weekday. Her background includes work with the NBC Radio Network, and she thrives in fast-paced news environments.
