LEWES, Del. - The Sussex County Council on Tuesday approved two measures in the Northstar development that pave the way for new 94-unit multi-family dwellings near Route 9 and Beaver Dam Road, citing the need for more workforce housing and a desire to prevent future development of more expensive homes on the site.
The Council recommended approval of a zoning change and a conditional use application submitted by Northstar Property LLC. The changes affect a 7.88-acre portion of a larger 433-acre parcel.
The zoning change amends the county’s comprehensive map to rezone the land from Agricultural Residential to Medium Density Residential, allowing for the construction of multi-family dwellings. The conditional use approval specifically permits the development of 94 residential units on the site.
Council members said the project supports local efforts to create more attainable housing options for working families. They also expressed concern that without the zoning change, the land could eventually be developed into high-end homes that would be out of reach for many locals.
Gayle Moore lives right near the land and says traffic is her main concern.
"We do need affordable housing, but we also need to have the infrastructure to get people back and forth. It goes hand in hand. I mean, first you should plan the infrastructure and then do the building," said Moore.
Kathy Sedbrook believes the county is already overdeveloped but understands the need for workforce units.
"I mean, if it's going to be built up anyway, why not?" said Sedbrook.