The opening of the new Veterans Affairs clinic in Toms River marks a major milestone in healthcare access for U.S. veterans in Ocean County. Designed to meet the growing needs of the local veteran population, this state-of-the-art facility offers comprehensive medical services, with plans for further expansion as additional staff and specialties are added.
This achievement is the result of decades of advocacy and collaboration. Leading the charge has been Rep. Chris Smith, a staunch supporter of veterans since his election to Congress in 1981. Smith’s efforts to enhance healthcare for veterans in Ocean County began over 30 years ago, culminating in the creation of the James J. Howard Outpatient Clinic in Brick in 1991. As demand outstripped the capacity of that facility, Smith championed the push for a larger, more advanced clinic, successfully securing approval in 2014 through bipartisan legislation addressing critical gaps in the VA healthcare system.
Smith’s unwavering commitment ensured that this long-overdue project stayed on track, even as it faced challenges such as multiple bidding rounds and logistical delays. He described the new clinic as a vital resource to honor the sacrifices of veterans and fulfill the nation’s promise to care for those who served. His leadership, persistence, and ability to build bipartisan coalitions have been instrumental in turning the vision for this clinic into a reality.
Key support also came from Sen. Cory Booker and Rep. Andy Kim, both of whom emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation to bring this project to fruition. Kim, whose personal family history gave him a deep appreciation for the sacrifices of U.S. soldiers, has consistently prioritized veterans’ issues. Booker highlighted the critical need for facilities like this to ensure veterans can access the mental and physical healthcare they deserve.
In addition to federal lawmakers, local and state officials played essential roles in advocating for the clinic. New Jersey’s congressional delegation, veterans’ service organizations, and community leaders worked together tirelessly to secure funding, approvals, and resources. State Senator Carmen Amato, Assemblymen Brian Rumpf, Greg Myhre, and Paul Kanitra, along with Toms River officials like Council Members Craig Coleman, David Ciccozzi, and James Quinlisk, added their voices to the effort. Former Toms River Mayor Maurice Hill was also instrumental in championing the project during its critical planning stages.
The clinic was developed by FD Stonewater, the contractor responsible for its construction, under the oversight of the VA’s Office of Real Property, led by Associate Executive Director John Thomas. Their work ensured that the facility met the high standards required to serve veterans effectively.
The Toms River VA clinic stands as a symbol of what can be achieved through perseverance, collaboration, and a shared commitment to honoring veterans. It provides not only expanded healthcare options but also a tangible expression of gratitude for the sacrifices made by those who served the nation. For the veterans of Ocean County, it represents a long-awaited promise fulfilled.
