NARTP Building 2 Marks Major Milestone in South Jersey Innovation

The National Aerospace Research & Technology Park (NARTP), in partnership with Atlantic County, the Atlantic County Improvement Authority (ACIA), the Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA), the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (USEDA), celebrated a significant milestone on Saturday with the beam signing of Building #2.

“This moment represents more than steel and structure—it represents progress, partnership, and the vision of creating a world-class ecosystem for aerospace innovation right here in South Jersey,” said Howard Kyle, President/CEO of NARTP. “Building #2 will provide critical space for startups, research institutions, and global leaders in aerospace to collaborate, innovate, and grow.”

The ceremony held on-site at NARTP, marked the placement of the final beam on the 40,000-square-foot facility, which will expand the Park’s capacity to support aviation research, innovation, and workforce development. Guests, partners, and officials gathered to sign the ceremonial beam before it was hoisted into place, symbolizing the continued momentum of Atlantic County’s innovation economy.

Building #2 was made possible in part by an $8.6 million investment through NJEDA’s Strategic Innovation Center Program. Once completed, it will offer state-of-the-art space for companies and organizations aligned with aerospace research and development, strengthening South Jersey’s role as a nationally recognized aviation research hub.

Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson praised the collective effort behind the project: “This is our future – our kids are going to want to stay here. We are changing the academic curriculums in the region. We will have an educated workforce. We have to teach to the need.”

New Jersey State Senator Vince Polistina added, “We’re on a mission to diversify our economy beyond gaming and tourism. Education is the key. We are developing a pipeline for students to be educated here, trained here, and have great opportunities here at the park and the FAA for long-term high-paying jobs.”