The Southern New Jersey Development Council honored business, government agencies and cultural institutions for their contributions to the economic vitality and quality of life in South Jersey, during the SNJDC’s 65th Annual Awards Luncheon at Tavistock Country Club on Oct. 17.
The event recognized five exceptional honorees for their leadership, innovation, and service to the region. Awards were presented to:
- Atlantic County Utilities Authority (Environmental Award) – Recognized for its leadership in sustainability and environmental innovation. The ACUA continues to set a statewide standard through projects such as New Jersey’s first commercial renewable natural gas facility, a pilot microplastic removal initiative at its wastewater plant, and the integration of a 1 MW battery energy storage system to enhance renewable energy management and grid resilience.
- Delaware River & Bay Authority (Transportation Award) – Honored for visionary leadership in modernizing and maintaining critical regional transportation infrastructure. Through its $178.5 million Capital Improvement Program, the DRBA is advancing safety and sustainability across bridges, ferries, and airports, including a new $93 million ship collision protection system for the Delaware Memorial Bridge and the introduction of a $74 million hybrid-electric ferry on the Cape May-Lewes route.
- Deptford Township (Economic Development Award) – Acknowledged for its commitment to smart growth, economic revitalization, and sustainable community development. The township’s revitalization of the Deptford Town Center, infrastructure improvements funded by more than $2 million in grants, and clean energy projects including a solar farm on a former landfill and expanded EV infrastructure all underscore its dedication to regional growth and sustainability.
- T&M Associates (Engineering & Design Award) – Recognized for advancing innovative, community-centered engineering and design solutions across South Jersey and beyond. Recent projects such as the Seaside Park Water and Sewer Utility Improvements Project and the Stone Harbor Retreat House demonstrate the firm’s commitment to resilient coastal infrastructure, sustainable design, and enhancing community well-being through thoughtful engineering.
- Symphony in C (Arts & Culture Award) – Lauded for enriching South Jersey’s cultural landscape and championing music education through its nationally recognized training programs. Based in Collingswood, the orchestra provides professional development opportunities for emerging musicians, while leading outreach initiatives such as “Bridging the Gaps with Music” in Camden schools and youth orchestras and summer programs that expand access to the arts for underserved communities.
The awards ceremony featured remarks from SNJDC President Marlene Asselta, and was emceed by Anthony Mongeluzo, president of PCS, the event’s title sponsor.
Founded in 1951, the Southern New Jersey Development Council is a non-profit economic development organization representing over 300 mid- to large-sized businesses across the southern eight counties.
