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Edison’s 157,000 square foot Convention and Exposition Center, has transformed into a 500 bed emergency field hospital for overflow patients due to coronavirus demands. The transformation was made possible with a $1.5 million dollar Line of Credit extended by Columbia Bank to New Jersey Convention & Exposition Center, Inc. The location is now one of three temporary hospitals in the state. When approached by the Governor’s office, the New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center had to act quickly. “We went from a week of tradeshow and event cancelations to a dynamic medical transformation,” said Jeff Pacansky, CFO/Financial Controller for Summit Associates Inc., a local real estate developer. “Our team led by owner John V.Visceglia along with General Managers Gene Rurka and Dan Boutureira coordinated logistics with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and FEMA in providing everything from modular patient rooms to caterers and more. We accomplished all of this while partnering with Columbia Bank to obtain financing in under a week. Everything was at lightning speed.” “We are dealing with a widespread crisis and our team is working hard to provide the necessary resources to our customers, employees and communities,” said Thomas J. Kemly, President and CEO of Columbia Bank. “This is what community banking is all about, partnering with local customers and businesses to do the best for our communities. It is our hope that more people can get the care they need as we continue battle COVID-19.” Summit Associates has worked with Columbia Bank for over 10 years. With the help of the Summit Associates, New Jersey Convention & Exposition Center, and Columbia teams, the hospital is now a reality. Pictured, is the temporary hospital which is scheduled to start taking patients Saturday April, 11th. For additional information on Columbia Bank’s comprehensive support efforts, please visit ColumbiaBankOnline.com.