John Carney becomes Delaware’s 74th governor this morning

John Carney will take the oath of office later this morning, officially becoming Delware’s 74th governor.

The ceremony for Carney is scheduled to take place on the opposite side of Legislative Hall in Dover than where it has traditionally been done in recent years. The front side of the building facing towards Rt. 13 will be used instead of the rear side of the building which faces The Green. 

Carney and Hall Long will start the day at Whatcoat United Methodist Church in Dover at 9 a.m. for an interfaith prayer service. After that, it’s over to Legislative Hall for the ceremony. Carney and Hall Long will then greet residents inside Legislative Hall after the inauguration. Later that night, Carney’s official Inaugural Celebration will be held at Dover Downs. 

A number of roads around the complex will be closed as of 6 a.m. That includes Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. east and west from Capitol Drive to Federal Street. Legislative Ave. will also be closed between Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard North and South. 

DelDOT is warning drivers in the area to expect difficulty finding parking around Legislative Hall. Shuttle bus service is being provided to help mitigate those parking troubles. Residents can park at the Blue Hen Corporate Center’s park and ride lot and take a shuttle bus to Legislative Hall.