One Of South Jersey's Oldest Roads Getting New Look

CAMDEN, N.J. (CBS) - A half-mile stretch of Haddon Avenue in Camden will soon be going through a transformation to accommodate all modes of travel…and new development.

One of south Jersey's oldest roads, the badly needed streetscape enhancements will happen from Vesper Boulevard to the Old White Horse Pike.

Motorists will notice a reconstructed roadway with new traffic signals. Cyclists will ride in bike lanes, and there will be pedestrian friendly sidewalks, curbs and ramps.

Camden County Freeholder Susan Shin Angulo says it's quite a transformation:

"We are making it more of a neighborhood setting, so there will be street lights, trees and landscaping done."

The nearly $4.5-million project includes more than $1-million in Federal Highway funding provided to Camden City. This stretch of Haddon Ave is a gateway into the City, linking residents and neighboring communities to Camden's downtown amenities.

Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center CEO Alexander Hatala says this new stuff helps pave the way for future economic development:

"We've not only been an anchor here for the last 65 years, but we're contributing to the growth of the city of Camden. We're about to announce a $100-million rebuild of this entire campus across the street."

More than $2-million worth of improvements have already taken place on Haddon Ave, from Vesper Boulevard to Euclid Avenue. The county expects this latest phase to be completed by early next year.