The New Jersey Business & Industry Association (NJBIA) and New Jersey Business magazine recently honored the Child Health Institute of New Jersey at the UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School in New Brunswick with a 2006 New Good Neighbor Award.

NJBIA President Philip Kirschner presented the award to Steven Galayda, senior project manager for UMDNJ at the 46th Annual New Good Neighbor Awards luncheon, held June 2 at the Sheraton at Woodbridge Place in Iselin.

“The Child Health Institute is among the nation's most comprehensive biomedical research centers, focusing on the genetic, environmental and behavioral factors in childhood diseases,” Kirschner said.  “Not only is this project great for New Brunswick, but it gives patients and their families hope to know that leading scientists are working on cures for their diseases.” 

The $56-million, 150,000-square-foot facility is a new type of healthcare institution that promotes collaboration between experts in research and clinical care.  In fact, on the main floor, scientists and doctors conduct clinical trials on new drugs.

The construction of the facility was funded by grants from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Energy as well as state appropriations. The Institute added more than 600 new jobs in New Brunswick, a big boost to the local economy. Many Child Health Institute employees who now live and shop in New Brunswick and surrounding areas.

The Institute is also the cornerstone for additional redevelopment in the immediate area, strengthening New Brunswick’s reputation as a healthcare hub.

Hillier Architecture of New York City designed the building.  The facility was constructed by the New Brunswick Development Corporation of New Brunswick.   Christopher Phelan, president of the Middlesex County Regional Chamber of Commerce, nominated the project.

The New Good Neighbor Awards Luncheon annually brings together a dynamic group of builders, architects, engineers and others in the development community to honor those responsible for the State’s most impressive new commercial construction and renovation projects. An independent panel of 23 judges selected the 12 winners based on economic impact, architectural merit and community involvement.   In all, 29 applications representing more than $600 million in construction costs and 7,000 jobs were submitted.

With more than 23,500 members, NJBIA is the nation’s largest state-level employers association.  New Jersey Business magazine is NJBIA’s flagship publication.