Development continues along U.S. 13 in Laurel with major retailers coming

Laurel continues to see movement on several commercial and residential development projects, Town Manager Jamie Smith reported during the Feb. 17 meeting of the Laurel Mayor and Council.

Among the most visible projects is a planned McDonald’s on the Truitt property along U.S. 13, near the Laurel Junction flea market. Planning and Zoning recently approved an amendment to the site plan. Smith said the revised plan includes a car wash and an additional commercial component, replacing a previously proposed use. “They’re all ready to move forward with that,” Smith said. The project remains in the development phase as approvals and preparations continue.

A Wawa convenience store and gas station is also planned for property in front of the Laurel Junction flea market along northbound U.S. 13. Smith said the Wawa will be constructed without affecting the existing indoor flea market building.

Both projects are part of ongoing commercial activity along the U.S. 13 corridor, where several properties are in various stages of development review.

The development of the Whaley property behind the Exxon convenience store and gas station is moving closer to final approval. Smith said revised plans were recently submitted to address soil conservation requirements, including stormwater management considerations. “The last two things we’re waiting on are permits from Soil Conservation and DelDOT,” Smith told council.

If those approvals are received, the developer expects to return to Planning and Zoning in May for final approval, with infrastructure work potentially beginning afterward.

The long-discussed “Promenade” project, a 28-unit affordable housing subdivision proposed by the Laurel Redevelopment Corporation (LRC), has experienced delays but may resume progress. The development is designed as approximately 14 duplex buildings providing 28 owner-occupied homes. Plans call for three-bedroom units with two to two-and-a-half bathrooms and approximately 1,300 square feet of living space. Homes are expected to be priced below market rates, with estimates in the $280,000 to $290,000 range.

Smith said she recently spoke with an LRC representative who indicated financing arrangements are being restructured. “They were changing some financing,” Smith said, adding that weather may also have contributed to delays. Town officials said they are awaiting further updates as financing details are finalized.

On Central Avenue, Davelli’s Bagel Café remains under development. Mayor Carlos Oliveras asked about the status of the project during the meeting. Smith said the owners are working through requirements with the State Fire Marshal’s Office. No opening date was provided.

Several of the projects discussed remain contingent on final permits, approvals, or financing arrangements. Construction timelines will depend on when those requirements are satisfied.