Redevelopment is a powerful tool at our disposal

New Castle County stands at a crossroads in urban development. The choice between expanding into precious greenspaces or redeveloping existing urban areas will shape our community's future. Smart growth is crucial for creating walkable, bikeable communities that not only enhance our quality of life but also preserve the natural environment.

Redevelopment is the process of transforming underutilized or abandoned urban areas into vibrant, functional spaces. This can include repurposing old malls, office complexes, and other surplus commercial properties into mixed-use developments that serve the community's needs. By focusing on these areas, we can breathe new life into our towns and cities without encroaching on untouched natural spaces.

Economic Efficiency
Redevelopment leverages existing infrastructure, such as roads, sewers, and electric lines, significantly reducing costs compared to developing new land. This approach is not only cheaper but also more sustainable, as it avoids the environmental impacts associated with new construction in untouched areas.

Open Space Preservation
Preserving greenspaces adds economic value to the community, creating desirable areas where people want to live and work. Protecting our limited open space is essential for a thriving economy. Many successful communities across the nation have demonstrated that utilizing greenspace effectively can enhance property values and attract residents and businesses.

Reducing Urban Sprawl and Its Negative Impacts
Urban sprawl leads to longer commute times, increased traffic congestion, and greater reliance on cars. Redevelopment can revitalize underused urban areas, creating vibrant, mixed-use spaces that enhance community life. By focusing on redevelopment, we can foster walkable neighborhoods with better access to amenities, reducing the need for extensive commuting and improving overall quality of life.

Caption: Possible redevelopment plans in Claymont, Delaware includes mixed use communities and the addition of parks along the riverfront. Choosing to redevelop this area turns an economically unproductive area into something incredible, while adding open space. See their full plans.

Economic Incentives
Despite all the benefits to redevelopment, it is currently still cheaper to build on untouched greenspaces. To shift this balance, we need more incentives specifically designed to support redevelopment projects. Making redevelopment financially attractive is key to encouraging developers to choose this option.

Regulatory Hurdles
Slow permitting processes and bureaucratic obstacles can hinder redevelopment efforts. Streamlined regulations and faster permitting processes are essential to facilitate redevelopment. By reducing these hurdles, we can accelerate the transformation of underused urban areas into thriving community spaces.

Redevelopment offers a smarter, more sustainable path for the future of New Castle County. By focusing on transforming existing urban areas rather than expanding into greenspaces, we can preserve our natural environment, reduce urban sprawl, and create vibrant, walkable communities. Addressing the challenges of redevelopment through better economic incentives and streamlined regulations will ensure that these projects benefit all residents and contribute to a thriving, resilient economy. It's time to embrace redevelopment as the key to a prosperous future for New Castle County.