Top-Quality Investments Are Key to Our Future

BY MICHAEL J. QUARANTA

The economic damage brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic has been well documented. In response, the federal government has done several things, among them is economic assistance to states and municipalities around the country to stimulate the economy and support businesses. The State of Delaware has received unprecedented stimulus aid that if invested wisely, could have meaningful economic impacts for years.

It is important to note that, not surprisingly, the federal aid came with parameters that largely dictate the options of permitted expenditures. Other federal funding could be headed our way, so the State Chamber believes it is important to identify investment ideas that could benefit the state for the long term. With that in mind, we asked our Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to meet and discuss ideas we could forward on to Governor Carney as his team deliberates over how best to spend these taxpayer dollars. The Committee met several times and discussed ideas amongst themselves and guests, including the economic development directors from the three counties and City of Wilmington, a representative of the Governor’s office, and Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki.

Among the ideas proposed by the Committee include (not a complete list):

Making Delaware Route 1 an Interstate Highway

Many prospective new businesses from out of state inquire about sites in proximity to interstate highways, so changing Route 1 from a state to federal highway could help with development along that corridor.

Building a Bypass Road in Sussex County

The beach area is interested in a bypass road that could divert throughtraffic from congesting downtown areas of the region.

Creating a Brownfield Cleanup Fund

The Committee also recommended funds be set aside to clean up Brownfields so that redevelopment could occur without plowing under as many Greenfields.

Establishing a Multi-Flag University and Training Center in Downtown Wilmington

In addition to expanding broadband and upgrading water infrastructure, the Committee discussed the idea of a multiflagged university and training center in downtown Wilmington. By looping in a wide range of college and university programs from different schools, a center like this could provide evening classes for career professionals as well as serving daytime students. A hub like this could also include certificate training program providers and serve as a single destination for area high school students enrolled in dual-enrollment classes. What we do know is that every great city in the world has a center of excellence within its downtown and something like this could be an “idea factory” for employers and employees for decades to come.

In closing, it’s important for decision makers to invest in infrastructure that is both physical and human. We have before us a once-in-a-generation opportunity to change the course of events in meaningful and positive ways. With careful thought and planning, we can do just that.

Michael J. Quaranta is president of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce.