RiverWinds

As a pristine spot on the Delaware River in West Deptford Township, where residents flock to golf, exercise, and have dinner, RiverWinds has become a premier destination for visitors and residents in South Jersey. Many come to watch the sunset as airplanes soar into the sky across the water.  Few towns along the Delaware River can boast tracts such as RiverWinds in Gloucester County.  At the turn of the century, Township officials embarked on the redevelopment of more than 1,100 acres that would make it all possible – a community center, restaurant, senior housing, and a golf course with a sweeping view of Philadelphia. Not bad for a former dredge spoils dump.

Those redevelopment efforts continue today – balancing the need for great public, open spaces with redevelopment opportunities for new housing and mixed uses.  However, at the forefront of those efforts are the successes of a Great Public Space, known as RiverWinds which features various amenities located on 1,100 sprawling acres.

• RiverWinds Community Center: The RiverWinds Community Center is a 110,000 SF multi-functional facility owned by the Township of West Deptford and is operated for the benefit of its residents. The facility is open year-round with amenities and services to benefit individuals of all ages boasting an aquatics center, fitness floors, arts & crafts workshop areas, childcare center, numerous party rooms, senior center with private veranda, an outside amphitheater, and more.
• Ron Jaworski’s RiverWinds Golf & Tennis Club: This 7,086-yard, par 72 course was designed by architect Ed Shearon and shaped by expert Pete Fazio, of the renowned golfing family. This original course brings world-class golf to the Philadelphia area and has been voted one of the “Best Places to Play” in New Jersey by Golf Week. The Tennis Club boasts an indoor five (5) court facility has received numerous USTA Premier Provider awards, as well as Courier Post #1 Tennis Facility awards.
• Scenic Walking Trail (Preserved Open Space): There are numerous walking trails along the perimeter and interior to the complex; however, it is also home to a 1.7 scenic walking trail that spans a multi-use walking path along Riverwinds Drive from Grove Avenue to the banks of Woodbury Creek, which traverses American Bald Eagle habitat – a majestic sight.
• The Point & The Cove: At the edge of the Delaware, sits a small, beautiful beach and mariner’s cove, providing fantastic views of the City of Brotherly Love (Philadelphia) and the river itself.  It is also home to the Township’s kayak launch and makes a great place to eat lunch or just relax by the water to watch many of the area’s cargo ships and recreational water vehicles sail by.
• RiverWinds Restaurant: According to Zagat Survey, “the phenomenal view of the Delaware River is the draw at this comfortable West Deptford American parked on the edge of the RiverWinds Golf Course, where the seafood-focused menu is quite good as well; courteous service and seasonal alfresco dining enhance the overall upscale picture.” All 4 dining rooms, including 2 bars and huge outdoor patio area, are waterfronts offering top-notch views of the city.
• RiverWinds Age-Restricted Housing: As part of the original Redevelopment Plan for Riverwinds, housing that provides opportunities to seniors to age in place have been a critical focal point for the Township including 4 existing developments totaling over 600 age-friendly options with more on the way.
• Ongoing Redevelopment Efforts: Designated as an Area in Need of Redevelopment since 2000, many of the Township’s redevelopment efforts have focused on preserving the high-quality open space and amenities that make RiverWinds such a great public space. However, the Township continues to look to opportunities to create a mixed use community for approximately 60 of the 1,100 acres.