NEWARK, NJ — Work has officially started on a $50 million “wellness center” in the South Ward of Newark.
BRICK Networks, in partnership with Saint James Health and the YMCA of Newark and Vicinity, held a groundbreaking ceremony for the South Ward Wellness Center at 483 Clinton Avenue on March 5.
Developers said the 50,000-square foot facility will house a community room for gatherings and workshops, a full-service pharmacy, a maternal health wing, primary care suites, flexible space for fellow nonprofits, and “state-of-the-art” classrooms for health and cooking education. The wellness center will also provide space for nonprofits and community-based organizations.
The center is slated to open in April 2027.
“For too long, families in the South Ward have had to navigate fragmented systems to access basic care,” Saint James Health CEO Nicole Fields said.
“This center will bring together maternal health, pharmacy, primary care and health education under one roof,” Fields added.
“Our partnership is grounded in the belief that access is a right, not a privilege,” Fields said.
The wellness center is already fully funded for construction at $48 million, with an additional $5 million needed to pay off the mortgage – bringing the dream of a debt-free, sustainable facility within reach, supporters said.
The public-private partnership is supported by funders including the Victoria Foundation and RWJ Barnabas Health, and through federal and state appropriations. Other financial support has come from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, M&T Bank, Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the Burke Foundation, the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey, Wells Fargo, LISC, Grow America and the Reinvestment Fund.
“This is more than a wellness center – it’s the physical embodiment of what our community has demanded and deserves,” said Dominique Lee, CEO of BRICK Networks.
Other comments of support for the groundbreaking included:
Michael Bright, President and CEO, of the YMCA of Newark and Vicinity – “By combining movement, medical care, and community services under one roof, we are making health access real and practical for the families of the South Ward.”
Craig Drinkard, Executive Officer of Victoria Foundation – “Our neighbors have made it clear that they envision a Newark where everyone has what they need to take care of themselves and their families. We invite foundations, policymakers, and neighbors to join us in building an even stronger support network for our city.”
Mark Manigan, President and Chief Executive Officer at RWJBarnabas Health – “This powerful collaboration – shaped by trusted partners like BRICK Networks, Saint James Health and the YMCA of Newark and Vicinity – demonstrates what is possible when public investment and community partnership come together to create lasting impact.”
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