New Castle County officials focus on economic development

New Castle County officials are one step closer to revitalizing a struggling area that has seen development shift to other parts of the state due to the economic downturn.

Thanks to strong partnerships and grant money, New Castle County announced Thursday that officials will work to create the perfect plan to rebuild communities along the Routes 9 and 13 corridor, south of Wilmington. New Castle County was recently awarded a $41,700 grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration to promote tourism and reinvestment opportunities, as well as expand small businesses. Investors will be encouraged to tackle such projects in the Port of Wilmington and New Castle County Airport areas.

“In this area you do have a lot of valuable assets, you’re close to road systems, you have land that maybe isn’t valued as highly right now so business can come in,” said New Castle County Executive Paul Clark.

In May, there will be a request for proposals to select a consultant to work with developers on the plan that is expected to be complete by December.

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“We’re going to revitalize this area, we’re going to work on it and everyone in New Castle County is going to have equal access,” said Clark.

In addition to the $41,700 grant, the county received matching funding from partners in economic development such as Delaware Economic Development Office, the Delaware River and Bay Authority and City of New Castle.

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