In New Jersey’s centralized pitch for Amazon HQ2, Camden is among top towns

According to a report from N.J.-based business news site ROI-NJ, four New Jersey towns were informed by the state’s Economic Development Authority that they’d made it to a second round in the state’s centralized pitch for Amazon’s HQ2 bid process.

Camden — the “City on the Rise” that has been working to raise its tech profile — was included with New Brunswick, Jersey City and Newark for requests for additional information. The report, penned by former NJBiz.com editor Tom Bergeron, says the four proposals will go to Gov. Chris Christie, whose team will submit one or more locations with the state’s official backing.

Other Jersey towns can still independently submit their bids without the Christie administration’s blessing.

Ahead of the Oct. 19 deadline, Philly is working alongside local leaders to put together a comprehensive Philly proposal.

Site selection specialist John Boyd, says the neighboring town of Camden can be a strong contender in the process. The Jersey-based expert says Camden may benefit from its “impressive” urban turnaround.

“One of its biggest plus is its proximity to Philly and having a network of public transit,” said Boyd. “But also, Camden benefits from the state’s incentive package.”

In Philly, Councilman David Oh is singing a similar tune.

But Boyd cautions against early optimism over the news: “I wouldn’t read too much into that. The application process is still underway.”