REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. - Back in 2021, the City of Rehoboth announced it was planning a streetscape project for Wilmington Avenue and Baltimore Avenue. According to the city, the streetscape project that was done on Rehoboth Avenue was such a success that officials felt it was necessary to do the same project on the side streets. The project has a few goals, one being opening up Wilmington Avenue and Baltimore Avenue up more to the public.
Rehoboth Beach Mayor, Stan Mills explained to CoastTV, "Enticing people off of Rehoboth Avenue, onto the side streets will be a big boost to those businesses."
Dana Peccon, who owns Green Truck Shop, located on Baltimore Avenue, says she believes visitors do not walk on Baltimore Avenue as often as other streets because it is hidden.
"A lot of people that frequent Rehoboth Avenue are not aware of this charming street, just one block back from them." Peccon continued, "I think this project can only improve the aesthetically pleasing atmosphere that already exists here, and in part also bring more customers back to Baltimore Avenue."
According to Mayor Mills, Rehoboth Avenue business saw an increase in customers after the streetscape project was completed. Along with attracting visitors to the side streets, the Wilmington/Baltimore Avenue Streetscape project will also improve the flow of traffic on the streets, better street lighting, move exposed wires underground, and make sidewalks wider and ADA compliant.
One store worker on Wilmington Avenue said the side walks are a hazard, and she worries someone will get injured on the uneven, cracked pavement."
"We want our sidewalks to be beautiful AND safe, and the side walks also need to be widened for pedestrians," stated Linda DiDomenicis, who works at Sea Finds on Wilmington Avenue.
At this time there is not set date as to when the project will begin. According to the city, the task force will hopefully give an update on the project at the end of this year, or the beginning of next year.