Laurel Town Council receives development, grants, project updates

Laurel Town Manager Jamie Smith delivered her monthly report to the Mayor and Council during the Monday, Nov. 17 meeting, outlining ongoing economic development efforts, grant-funded infrastructure projects, community initiatives, and recent ordinance actions.

Smith reported continued movement on several commercial and residential projects along U.S. Route 13, including progress on the Wawa project and a concept plan for further commercial construction on an adjoining parcel. Developers also continue discussions regarding residential development on Central Avenue and a mixed-use project on Discount Land Road, both expected to appear before the Planning and Zoning Commission.

A substantial portion of Smith’s report focused on the Ramble Walkway TAP project, which remains delayed pending a necessary easement from the railroad. Although Sen. Tom Carper’s office has intervened, meeting federal safety-structure requirements beneath the railroad bridge has proven nearly impossible. Smith recommended shifting the active portion of the project to the Janosik Park section, which is already in need of major repair, while the town simultaneously pursues a Reconnecting Communities Planning Grant to fund eventual bridge-related construction. Phase II construction at Janosik Park is expected to begin within 12 months, with Phase I design advancing at the same time.

Smith also noted progress on the Janosik shoreline stabilization project. Funding has been secured with the assistance of the Nanticoke Watershed Alliance, though state permitting may take more than a year to complete. She further updated the Council on the town’s continued collaboration with Seaford and the Sussex Conservation District on MS4 stormwater requirements, including pursuit of grant funds to offset projected costs.

The One Laurel Steering Committee continues to meet twice monthly, and its partnership with the Boys & Girls Club remains focused on teen-oriented programming. Smith also confirmed that Laurel Heritage Day 2026 is scheduled for April 11, with the Laurel Historical Society opening the Hitchens Homestead for youth games and theme-specific vendors.

The town continues its work with Rossi Company on the renewal of Laurel’s Downtown Development District designation. Outreach to stakeholders is already underway, and Mayor and Council have reviewed and approved a draft plan following Planning and Zoning review.

Council also approved the second reading of Ordinance 2025-3, amending Chapter 55 of the town code relating to brush, grass, and weeds. The amendment maintains the six-inch height limit for unmanaged vegetation while establishing exemptions for agricultural properties and approved pollinator meadows. Seasonal plantings must still be trimmed to at least six inches following die-back.

In addition, Council adopted Resolution 2025-9, affirming Laurel’s acceptance into the Delaware State Housing Authority’s Zoning and Land Use Reform Pilot Program. Laurel applied for the program to examine zoning reforms that would allow accessory dwelling units and “missing middle” housing in R-1 districts.

Smith concluded her report with a summary of October meetings and community events, including safety and technology sessions, Good Neighbor Partners, Trunk-or-Treat, and Halloween activities at Laurel Elementary School.