Rowan obtains building to expand in Camden

Rowan University has obtained a building in downtown Camden through eminent domain so it can increase enrollment in the city from 500 to 1,500 students, the university said yesterday.

The Glassboro-based university shares space downtown with Camden County College, and it will use the new building at Cooper Street and Broadway, the former First Camden National Bank & Trust Co., for office and classroom space.

Tenants, including a pizza restaurant currently in an annex that is part of the property, will remain, Rowan spokesman Joe Cardona said.

A judge cleared the way for ownership last week but a final sale price has not been set. Cardona said Rowan has offered the owner, New York-based Quercus Alba, about $3.1 million. Two Rowan University banners were hung from the building yesterday. - Matt Katz