The Burlington County Regional Chamber of Commerce announced on Apr. 14 that the Burlington County Agricultural Center will be honored with the Voice of Business Award for Economic Development at its annual awards event on April 27.
The award recognizes the Agricultural Center’s support for area farms, food vendors, and small businesses in the county and region. The recognition highlights the center’s impact on economic growth and community engagement in Burlington County.
“Agriculture is deeply rooted in Burlington County’s heritage and economy, and the Burlington County Agricultural Center reflects our commitment to keeping the industry strong and viable through farmland preservation and promoting education about farming, sustainability and land stewardship,” said Burlington County Commissioner Director Dr. Felicia Hopson. “The growth of the County’s weekly farmers market at the Agricultural Center is one of our biggest successes. It has helped make the Agricultural Center a major regional asset, not just for local farmers but also for numerous small business vendors and entrepreneurs who sell there. Our residents love it, and we are excited the Chamber of Commerce has chosen to recognize its value to our county and the business community.”
Chamber President Kristi Howell said, “Burlington County created the Agricultural Center and Farmers Market as a place for residents to learn about agriculture and interact with area farmers. Over the ensuing 20 years it’s rapidly grown to become one of the most popular destinations to shop and visit in the region. In the process, it has helped dozens of local businesses to succeed.” Deputy Director Allison Eckel added that “the Burlington County Farmers Market is one of the most powerful economic development tools we have,” citing its direct revenue benefits for farms and small businesses.
Located off Centerton Road on a preserved farm at Moorestown-Mount Laurel border, this center hosts a weekly farmers market from May through early December which recently celebrated its 20th season. The market was named New Jersey’s top farmers market by American Farmland Trust in 2024, while USA Today ranked it fourth nationally last year.
Commissioner Randy Brolo said: “Anyone who has visited … can see how special it is, and we appreciate … recognition … We also applaud other award selections…”
In addition to hosting markets, events like last year’s Harvest Dinner spotlight farm-to-table dining collaborations involving local culinary students.
According to the official website, Burlington County operates under a Board of Commissioners with five members at large; Eve Cullinan serves as county administrator; it encompasses three cities among forty political subdivisions across an area totaling 827 square miles—making it New Jersey’s largest county by area—and features parks such as Historic Smithville Park covering over 300 acres with forests, meadows, streams, wetlands; library services aimed at personal development; plus programs recognizing women’s contributions.
