Hamilton Township and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia have reached an agreement to provide a temporary training environment for the Township’s Divisions of Fire and Police personnel at the former AMC movie theater, which CHOP announced the acquisition of in July 2025.
The township announced the agreement on Tuesday, Feb. 10.
Ahead of the planned demolition of the former movie theater located on Sloan Avenue, CHOP has granted the Hamilton Township Fire and Police Divisions full access to the site for specialized emergency response training. The 42-acre site, which was recently acquired by CHOP for the development of a state-of-the-art pediatric care facility offers a rare opportunity for first responders, the township said.
The large, multi-theater layout allows for complex simulations, including search-and-rescue operations, structural navigation and coordination of tactical response drills that are difficult to replicate in standard training facilities.
“Public safety is our top priority, and providing our police officers and firefighters with realistic training environments is essential to their readiness,” said Mayor Jeff Martin, who also serves as the director of public safety. “We are grateful to CHOP for their continued partnership.
“Not only are they bringing world-class pediatric healthcare to our backyard, but by opening this site for our first responders before demolitions, they are actively helping us to keep our community safer.”
The township said that the training exercises will take place over the coming weeks, utilizing the structure’s unique features before the building is cleared for the next phase of redevelopment. This collaboration ensures that the vacant property remains a productive asset to the Township.
“We are honored to become members of the community and are committed to supporting both the continued growth of the area and the safety and well-being of those who live and work here. This was a unique experience that CHOP was proud to support before construction begins,” said Donald E. Moore, senior vice president, real estate, facilities and operations at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
(Photo provided by Hamilton Township.),
