More room for Stockton University to grow in A.C.? Working group to explore possibility

Efforts are currently underway at Stockton University to study options that would enhance its impact in Atlantic City.

The Galloway-based school’s president, Joe Bertolino, announced the formation of a working group of several members of the Stockton board, alumni, business and community leaders, as well as students, faculty and staff.

The group’s initial task is to hire an experienced firm to conduct a feasibility study for Phase III, which is currently a 2.25-acre parking lot between Hartford and Albany avenues.

Stockton does not own the property, but would partner with Atlantic City Development Corp. in the development of the project.

Strong demand for student housing in Atlantic City led to Stockton formally opening the Phase II residential complex across from O’Donnell Memorial Park in May. More than 900 Stockton students will live at the university’s two Atlantic City residential complexes this fall.

“As an Anchor Institution, we are committed to being in and of the community,” Bertolino said. “In partnership, we will actively explore opportunities that would best enhance experiences for our students and elevate the impact of Stockton as a good neighbor within Atlantic City.”

Stockton received $1 million in its Fiscal Year 2024 state appropriations to assist in the planning of Phase III.

Stockton offers an array of classes at the John F. Scarpa Academic Center and hosts nearly 2,000 program and event-related bookings annually at the Atlantic City campus.

Additionally, demand for summer programming and housing has turned Stockton Atlantic City into a 12-month residential campus experience.