Downtown Dover Partnership Board Meeting Packet Revised

<i I, DOWNTOWN y == f PARTNERSHIP BOARD OF DIRECTORS Wednesday, April 24, 2024 7:30 a.m, City of Dover Conference Room AGENDA 1. Welcome 2. Agenda 3. Minutes (March) 4. Dover Police Dept. Sgt. Lynch and Dan Logan, State Prosecutor, DE Attorney General's Office 5. DDP advocacy role 6. Downtown Dover Master Plan Priorities i, Historic District Commission meeting May 16 (DDP letter of support) 7, Other Business 8. Public Comment 9. Adjourn Next DDP board meeting: Wednesday, May 22, 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room Agenda items as listed may not be considered in sequence. Pursuant to 29 DEL. C. 10004(e)(2), this agenda is subject to change to include the addition or deletion of items, including executive sessions, which arise at the time of the meeting. Downtown Dover Partnership Board Meeting Agenda — March 27, 2024

k DOWNTOWN Board Meeting y” SSOVER 3/27/24 WY PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room BOARD MEETING MINUTES ATTENDANCE: Codi Canasa, Todd Stonesifer, Councilman Fred Neil, Sarah Keifer, Dina Vendetti, Kim Adams, Sgt. Jenn Lynch, Pete Bradley, Will Grimes, Jonathan Street, Mayor Robin Christiansen, Sharon Duca, Dave Hugg, Senator Trey Paradee, Stacy Downing STAFF: Diane Laird, Tina Bradbury, Ken Anderson, Jordan Resh CALL TO ORDER Stonesifer opened the meeting at 7:33 a.m. AGENDA Councilman Neil motioned to approve the agenda. Mayor Christiansen seconded the motion. Unanimous approval. MINUTES Councilman Neil motioned to approve the previous meeting minutes. Mayor Christiansen seconded the motion. Unanimous approval. POLICE REPORT Sergeant Lynch presented statistics from Feb 2024 and Feb 2023, noting similarities between the two years, and reflecting the presence of Dover PD in downtown. She noted that the highest incidents, stops, were routine. Sergeant Lynch noted that suspicious events have increased from 2023 but is being addressed. She noted that Family Dollar and Irish Mike’s were popular crime locations for both years. Canasa noted that new loiterers are on Bradford St., and asked if any outside sources are bringing people downtown in the past month. Sergeant Lynch responded that Dover is known regionally as a popular spot, but she is not aware of anything specific. She added that there were incidents on Minor St. and at EZ-Pass and they are working to identify the individuals. She noted that these individuals have been seen throughout Dover/beyond downtown. Vendetti noted that Code Purple ends in March, so those sheltered no longer have a place to go. Bradbury noted that the report does not include prostitution. Sergeant Lynch responded that the incidents may be reported under suspicious event or welfare check. Bradbury asked if anyone was assisting them. Sergeant Lynch responded that nonprofits may be assisting with opioid awareness, but Board Meeting 3/27/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 1

k DOWNTOWN Board Meeting y” SDOVER 3/27/24 WY PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room not directly for prostitution. She added that she attended the meeting on S. Bradford with homeowners, and one of their primary complaints was prostitution too. Stonesifer asked how recruitment and retention efforts have gone. Sergeant Lynch responded that four officers will start in the academy in spring and there is one anticipated retirement. She added that staffing is even, with retirements and recruitments balancing out. Sergeant Lynch added that five cadets are in the background phase and will start their training once completed. She noted that the cadets will be working by summer. Mayor Christiansen noted that the cadets can become police officers after. EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE/STAFF UPDATES Franchise Tax Bradbury reported that DDP and Main Street are current for their franchise taxes. Nominations Committee Laird shared that at least one board member is being sought, noting the goal of diversity in age, race, and professional experience. Street shared that he is leaving the board after many years of service, as he is relocating for work. He noted that the experience has been meaningful to him, and he will complete the full fiscal year before leaving. PROPERTY UPDATES 136 W. Loockerman St. (Key to Life Juice Bar) Bradbury shared that Key to Life is open on weekends and for pickups. She noted that Key to Life were EDGE grant recipients, and they invested the money into their business. She added that they received a DDD grant from DSHA as well and will receive a county match and funding for architectural drawings. Bradbury added that Key to Life is outgrowing the current space and has requested information about 120 S. Governors sites once available. 120 S. Governors Ave. (Auto parts/Day care) Bradbury shared that vacating has started, with the auto parts store fully out and the day care nearly out. She noted that both residents had requested to end their lease independently and that demolition will be planned once they are fully out. Board Meeting 3/27/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 2

k DOWNTOWN Board Meeting y” SDOVER 3/27/24 WY PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room Bradbury shared that on May 18, Central DE Habitat for Humanity is scheduling a Rock the Block clean up at 120 S. Governors and asked for additional police presence. Stonesifer suggested playing classical music to deter loiterers. 39 S. West St. (Inner City Cultural League) Bradbury shared that the site was a former brownfield, which has been fully restored. She added that with Sen. Paradee’s help, they are working to deed the property to the hands of someone who will continue to maintain the property. DOWNTOWN DOVER MASTER PLAN PRIORITIES C-2 Zoning Stonesifer shared that the master plan’s goal of increasing density required building higher, and the City of Dover Planning Dept took leadership to pass new zoning ordinances. He thanked Dawn Melson- Williams and the community’s support for successfully passing zoning changes in a vote of 8-1. Duca added that Mayor Christiansen must sign the ordinance for final approval and that the changes were well received by the Council. ITB (Invitation to Bid) for demolition 680-684 Forest St. Anderson shared that on Feb. 27 two sealed bids were opened. The bids have been vetted out by various committees, such as Economic Vitality, and a motion is prepared. Street motioned to “authorize the notice to proceed with Delaware Landscaping Service for the amount of $67,500.00 for the demolition of 680-684 Forest Ave., as delineated in the aforementioned ITB and as responded to in their proposal dated Feb. 13.” Anderson noted that a contingency needs to be established as well in case of issues with the vendor, although none are anticipated. Street amended the motion to include “alternatively, this motion also requests authorization to issue a notice to proceed for stated services to Richard E Pierson Construction Inc. in the amount of $77,905.00 should the pre-notification to proceed discussions indicated Delaware Landscaping Services, Inc. inability to proceed.” Councilman Neil seconded the amended motion. Unanimous approval by the board. Board Meeting 3/27/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 3

k_ DOWNTOWN Board Meeting ye SDOVER 3/27/24 PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room Dover Kent MPO FY 25 Laird shared that DDP has missed the deadline for a new proposal for FY25, but Kent MPO/Kittleson Associates proposed amending the existing Downtown Dover/City of Dover study to include working with the city and providing a plan on how to best reinstall the sidewalks. She added that DDP committed $6,500, DelDOT commits $6,500 and the remaining costs are covered by the MPO. Laird noted that the project is aimed to be completed by Nov. 2024. Other Laird shared that she is requesting $5M for workforce housing — a more affordable housing option - to Sen. Coons office. She added that the housing is between subsidized and market rate, allowing for diverse incomes downtown. She added that the grant also requests funding for a playground, which will be required for the proposed daycare at 120 S. Governors. Laird thanked board members who have helped write letters of support, such as Sen. Paradee, and noted that the application is competitive. Laird added that the work cannot be completed and reimbursed and that the award will not be announced until October, but that the efforts are worthwhile. Stonesifer shared that the process of acquiring two properties is underway and expected to go to closing soon, noting that the properties are instrumental to the development of the Multi Modal Transit Center. Stonesifer shared the video posted by Gov. Carney’s office to highlight Capital City 2030: Transforming Downtown Dover plan. https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1174884380559861&ref=sharing LEGISLATIVE UPDATES Sen. Paradee shared the influx of money from the federal and state levels has started to run out. He added the three primary focuses are Healthcare, Education, and Police, and they are working to entice young people to enter these fields through favorable pay and benefits. He added that in working with the school districts, the community is growing frustrated with teacher shortages, which are prevalent nationally as well. Sen. Paradee attributed the shortage to retirement and career changes following the pandemic and noted classes with 30+ students/per teacher. He added that they are working to offer training for teachers and reducing the barriers of entry into the field, such as easing the process to transfer teaching licenses from state to state. Sen. Paradee added that he expects to see additional Board Meeting 3/27/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 4

k DOWNTOWN Board Meeting ye SDOVER 3/27/24 PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room investment in affordable housing, the Downtown Development District, and other efforts to improve economic growth. Sen. Paradee shared that legislation about hospital reform is being proposed, noting the high cost of Medicare/Insurance coverage. Stonesifer noted that the housing crisis is affecting the country, and that Sen. Huxtable has submitted several bills that will impact the DDP’s work, such as a 20% rebate on new workforce housing units (which would apply to 120 S. Governors), and transfer tax reductions for workforce housing. Sen. Paradee shared that Sen. Huxtable previously worked for Milford Housing Development, Inc., an organization similar to NeighborGood Partners, noting that he is a leader in creating affordable housing. Sen. Paradee noted that he sponsored several of the bills proposed by Sen. Huxtable and is working on answering questions about financing. Councilman Neil shared that he has contacted the legislature about HB55, emphasizing that utilities are as important for housing, and asked for a Commission for Housing, efforts to maintain low costs for affordable housing, and ensuring dollars from housing stays within the state of Delaware. Hugg shared that the Homeless Bill of Rights is moving in the legislature, as well as bills related to the police and housing. He expressed concern that the bills would not help downtown. Sen. Paradee responded that homelessness is a concern as the state would like to help those in need but noted that the state does not want to encourage homelessness. Sen. Paradee shared that efforts in Portland, OR to support homeless currently allow tents and campers near the downtown and that all drugs are decriminalized, causing public drug use nearby. He noted that drug treatment services, food, and housing, and important to provide, but not to become a magnet for other people. Sen. Paradee added that HB55 will be addressed if/when it reaches the DE Senate. BOARD MEMBER UPDATES Duca shared that they are working with Hugg and a consultant for renewal and expansion of the Downtown Development District. She added that they are also working with a consultant to present to the council options to proceed for the new marijuana laws, with a plan to present to council on Apr. 9. Mayor Christiansen shared that the state’s final deadline to decide is Nov. 9 and that they are looking to restrict eligible locations for dispensaries. Hugg added that the consultant is providing clarity on what Board Meeting 3/27/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 5

k, DOWNTOWN Board Meeting ye SDSOVER 3/27/24 PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room other jurisdictions are during and how to control sale/consumption and locations of retail sales, such as in C-4 Zones. Councilman Neil shared that he would not like to restrict retail sale from coming to Dover, as there is a tax benefit, but that he will attend upcoming presentations from the State and Council to receive advisement on how to proceed. Anderson shared that DDP is looking to form a new entity, a 501c3, that is differentiated from the 501c6 of the DDP and the 501c3 of Main Street Dover. The new entity would handle the unique requirements of the master plan, such as ability to give a tax ID number to private donors, ability to acquire properties, ability to receive certain kinds of funding — all related to the goals of the master plan. He added that counsel is working with the IRS to confirm eligibility. Bradley shared that Dover Days and NASCAR are coming soon. He added that Kent County Tourism’s rebranding is underway. Bradley also shared that Dover was named one of the South’s 25 Destinations on the Rise in Southern Living. Grimes shared that NeighborGood Partners is preparing for the first fundraiser on May 2 at Rail Haus, called Raise the Roof and that they are currently looking for sponsors. Dr. Downing shared that their annual DSU Downtown Spring Festival will be April 27, with family-friendly events, food, and live music. The event takes place on Governors on the corner of Fulton and Cecil (the tennis courts). The event is 11 a.m. —4 p.m. with a 5K before the Festival, to raise awareness about sexual violence. Dr. Downing shared that about 1,500 students are attending the downtown campus daily, with shuttles allowing the students to transport without taking up parking. Sen. Paradee noted that DSU has helped beautify the downtown and has made a positive impact on the community. Hugg asked if any updates were available about the transfer of the former Library from DSU to the new healthcare provider. Dr. Downing responded that the transfer is underway, but she does not have an update at this time. Dr. Downing shared that they had a walkthrough of the Schwartz and are working on ways to start programming the venue. Laird noted that DDP provided a letter of support to encourage the awarding of funds for renovation. Anderson noted that DDP has a meeting with DSU leadership on April 3. Keifer shared that changes for Public Facilities are underway, which will change the requirements for payments to schools, utilizing building permit surcharges instead, and reducing the requirements for Board Meeting 3/27/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 6

k DOWNTOWN Board Meeting yy SDOVER 3/27/24 fp ARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room traffic impact studies, transferring responsibility to DeIDOT and away from the County, but noting that the Levy Court does not have unanimous support yet. Street thanked Keifer for the changes, providing details about the challenges the previous policy presented and noting that the changes are favorable for development. Stonesifer noted that reducing the barriers from the County helps support the growth of downtown. Mayor Christiansen thanked the Kent Economic Partnership for support of Ready in Six, which decreases the length of time required for development projects by streamlining requirements. Vendetti shared that the Central Delaware Chaber of Commerce had their Legislative Luncheon last week with a successful turnout, and has upcoming their 55+ Expo, Mini-Masters Golf Tournament, as well as continuing to work at lobbying the legislature. Sen. Paradee thanked Canasa for hosting the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, noting the prominent level of organization and positive atmosphere. He noted that Rail Haus had a large crowd on the weekend of the event as well and reported his excitement for downtown’s growth. Hugg shared that the Old Post’s critical stormwater project is moving forward and is under Phase | environmental analysis. Hugg added that Robin Eaton, Director of Parks and Recreation is leaving his position, but has established a quality team. Hugg thanked Eaton for his work and noted that his position is now posted. Hugg shared that a promising candidate is in conversation for the role of Planning Director. Hugg added that he is speaking with private investors about planning options for development. Canasa shared the success of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and the first annual Capital Bar Crawl. She noted that events are important to highlight downtown and experience the changes that have taken place. She noted that ~7K people participated in the parade, with many remaining downtown throughout the day to participate in the Bar Crawl, shop, and dine. Canasa shared that another Destination Downtown Dover event will take place Oct. 12 for OktDoverFest. Canasa encouraged the board to share information about upcoming events and consider opportunities to help support the event financially. Canasa added that the Capital Bar Crawl was a premier event for downtown, hosted by Destination Downtown Dover, and replaced History, Heritage, and Hops from previous years. She added that participants received shirts that recorded the various locations they visited during the crawl. Canasa noted that the event encouraged people to visit new/existing bars and resulted in thousands of points of engagements both in person and online. Board Meeting 3/27/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 7

k DOWNTOWN Board Meeting yy SSOVER 3/27/24 PARTNERSHIP City of Dover Conference Room PUBLIC COMMENT N/A ADJOURNMENT Street motioned to adjourn the meeting. Councilman Neil seconded the motion. Unanimous approval. Next Meeting Wed. April 24, 7:30 a.m. City of Dover Conference Room Board Meeting 3/27/24 Downtown Dover Partnership Draft 8

DOWNTOWN DOVER PARTNERSHIP IN Ds Downtown Dover Partnership Main Street Dover 101 W. Loockerman Street, Ste 2B Dover, DE 19904 (302)678-2940 April 17, 2024 DRAFT similar for 148 & 150 S. Bradford St. To: Members of the City of Dover Historic District Review Commission (May 16 meeting) Re: 148 S. Bradford St., Dover, DE The Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) seeks an Architectural Review Certificate for 148 S. Bradford St. The DDP acknowledges and values this historic building, as well as the historic context of which this building is a part. Nevertheless, a larger initiative is underway that will require demolition of this property: The Capital City 2030: Transforming Downtown Dover! master plan (“the Plan”). The Downtown Dover Partnership has led development of The Plan, the goal of which is to transform downtown Dover into a thriving residential, cultural, and business district with recreational, arts and music amenities, as well as a multi-modal transportation hub. The plan was created through significant community engagement and has been supported by a broad range of public and private entities, as well as non-profits and individuals. | Most recently the Governor committed $25M toward two projects to kick-start the transformation. The property that has been identified for the public transportation hub is comprised of two existing parcels (city and DDP-owned, respectively) and requires the adjacent parcel of 148 S. Governor’s Ave. to complete the land massing for the structure. We ask that members of the committee be assured that The Plan will not only set the stage for a strong, sustainable future for the downtown business district and neighboring communities of Dover for years to come, but will also ensure that the Downtown Dover Historic Victorian district maintains a majority of its assets, character, and intrinsic value throughout the encompassing transformation that is associated with The Plan. The DDP appreciates the committee’s thoughtful consideration for the proposed demolition. Sincerely, Diane Laird Executive Director MAIN STREET 4, AMERICA" Accredited

BUSINESS TIMES | April 2, 21 Liieto 7 IY She Leads: Manufacturing Strong: Moving Out: DRA launches accelerator LBR promotes supply chain bill Morris James to leave Wilmington 7 8 9 Tidal Waves: Chemours Health care org signs Change-up: with Seaford center 12 12

* nad = By Maddy Lauria Contributing Writer On the other side of downtown Dover from where Kristin Stonesifer serves coffee to a growing number of patrons, a demolition site will soon become an emblem of what she and many others hope will finally be a resurgence of Delaware’ capital city. " ose behind the scenes of Dover's 1 lopment efforts say it's the far Jess visible work, from conversations to permits, that are moving some properties toward a meticulously planned — and pricey— rebirth of downtown. Recent announcements touting tens of millions of dollars may be the key in helping naysayers shift to a more hopeful outlook on the city’s future growth, this Kent County native and business owner said. “It's time,” said Stonesifer, who owns House of Coffi near the corner of Loockerman and State streets. “Theres alot happening that’s about to pop.” Stonesifer said she can take no credit for the progress she and others think is about to “pop,” in part due to the dogged efforts of the Downtown Dover Partnership (DDP) and anyone else willing to bet a stake on the historic city. The demolition on Forest Street may mark the westernmost and most visible impact of the changes starting this spring. But will starting 10 DELAWARE BUSINESS TIMES / APRIL 2, 2024 witha fraction of the full investment needed to support infrastructure improvements and redevelopment in downtown Dover be enough to turn the tide of business churn and scarce foot traffic along Loockerman? Some, like DDP’s Executive Director Diane Laird, say yes. But it won't happen overnight. . “There's going to becomea tipping point in downtown Dover where we will have more second locations of businesses that are already successful and welll also have newstarts of businesses where people areina position toruna successful, sustainable business,” she said. “We haven't quite reached that tipping point yet.” ‘This is no accident’ At the end of March 2024, the most drastic visual change so far in downtown Dover has beena construction site at the corner of S. Governor's Avenue and Water Street, where $118 million in public funding is being invested in a new three-story Kent County Family Court courthouse that will replace an outdated facility on Court Street and add a 378-car parking garage into the downtown mix. While the new courthouse wasn't exactly part of the master plan for Dover, it’s been a more than welcome addition. The project is slated for , Inside Downtown | Dover’s bet for rebirth — Dover officials are hoping that thelr dswatowa corridcr caa be reimagined by $500 milion in investment that would bring more aparlmeats and Frst-floor retail to the city. | PHOTO COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN DOVER PARTNERSHIP completion at the end of 2025. “Most people don't realize that the master plan initiative, the visibility that themaster planis starting to get «itactually has hada residual effect ofspurring development in other parts of Dover,’ said Ken Anderson, DDP's property development director. “(The] dots are easy to connect when you look at the vastness of the master planand the total development that's anticipated over the next three to five years.” Coney Island Grillis one of a few businesses that have opened in tbe past four years in downtona Dover, PHOTO COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN DOVER PARTNERSHIP It's been about a year now since DDP and its partners unveiled an extensive master plan for redeveloping the heart of the city, one that's going to require at least $500 million in funding (which doesn't include the courthouse) to spur even more investment from private developers, develop interconnectedness between key players and employers like Bayhealth, the Dover Air Force Base, Delaware State University and state government, as well as add about 2,000 new residents. Since that plan was laid out, most of the moving parts have been under the radar. Atleast until earlier this year, when elected officials announced $25 million in funding from Goy. John Carney that will fuel another $80 million investment at akey site on S. Governors Avenue, just a few blocks from the new courthouse. Here, construction is slated to begin within the next year ona 300-space parking garage along with a six-story complex that will include a grocery store, daycare, retail and over 100 rental units. Developers behind this first multi-use project, including Philadelphia-based Mosaic Development Partners, are also on board with a multi-year vision for a more interconnected way of living in acity just shy of 40,000 people. “What we've really focused on is really being the catalyst to bring others in,” said Mosaic Co-Founder and CEO Gregory Reaves. “We believe

‘SPECIAL SECTION: COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE t* "development and developers jew ideas and new approaches, its good for downtown Dover. And we're already seeing traction.” As shovels start to hit the ground, other incentives like DDP's Critical Improvements Program have pumped another $].2 million into the downtown to make improvements to existing buildings, such as updating ADA access and commercial kitchens at new eateries on Loockerman and N. West Street. Eyen local zoning rules are shifting to make room for Dover to grow. That includes rethinking parking needs along with building designs, considering new parking garages are being proposed for redevelopment on Governors Avenue as well as at the site ‘of the new courthouse. Zoning changes that will make way for development Jaid outin the plans have recently been passed by city officials, Reaves noted. Laird said the city is currently assessing the water and wastewater needs that new development in the downtown will spark. “You're right in the nexus,” Anderson said. Just in the past year or so, there's also been the opening ofa new middle "school campus. The Rail Haus beer garden has been attracting new fans throughout the cold winter months. About Limile away from those brews ts, the 100-000-plus-square- foc. courthouse is emerging from the ground. At Loockerman Plaza, the former U.S. Post Office site has been sold above its asking price, and fingers are crossed that it will soon become even more new eateries and apartments for those looking to land in downtown Dover. Anderson and others pointed to DDP's years of planning as the root cause of some of these “residual” benefits popping up around the city. “The Downtown Dover Partnership has been relentless,” said Stonesifer, who opened her business near the corner of Loockerman and State streets six years ago and noted that she’s seen 10 to 12 percent year-over- year growth in her business. “They've taken each small success and allowed that small success to catapult them forward. This is no accident.” Orchestrating change For those like Anderson, the most drastic changes so far have been made not with power tools but in conversations with critical facets of the community, like the People’s Church of Dover, he said. The creation of Dover's master plan relied heavily on community input, which included insight from over 800 residents across dozens of in-person and virtual meetings. The idea is more of a “placemaking” approach, in which the mixed-use vision also incorporates public arts and equitable access for both diverse businesses and residents. Ashe described a current tipping point for downtown Dover's development on the horizon, Anderson noted a journey parallel to the early days of investment by the Buccini/Pollin Group in Wilmington. a Gi rerosco nstoncrosrrno orensrace @ marcas erevar arent) @ mya setucenmrwenn @ meeaneu smagunssmecroan @ swurieoetvux rxenronarenccnsanstor B "rowan vorremexiarvowntas GB vaouarnuaxery eres, and city officials draft the master plan guiding many of these developments. Just over a decade ago, some of the key players now involved in downtown Dover's impending rebirth previously also worked together at the former Delaware Economic Development Office, once known as DEDO for short. Through their time there, both Anderson and Laird led state-backed efforts to spur investment and business acumen. in local endeavors and downtown districts through efforts like the Project Pop-Up program. Mosaic’s Reaves also spent time previously working with them as he helped launch an entrepreneurial training aa +a = i, “ a bringing in the people who are already in the area for those anchors, but who leave to shop, eat and play- elsewhere, like along Route 13, Those four key anchors in Dover aren't new or different, but the recent wave of public and private funding, as well as the behind-the-scenes efforts to make a more cohesive community, are what supporters believe will make the difference this time around. Yet, for years, Dover's downtown. commercial vacancy rate has hovered at about 50 percent, DDP'’s Laird said. DDP offers resources to help with recruitment and retention of businesses, but the churn of businesses has remained steady, ‘Masaic Developmect Partners studied ten sites in the city and ientiSed soggested concepts ta revtaize them fcr the future, | IMAGE COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN DOVER PARTNERSHIP Before the arguably successful Riverfront redevelopment efforts, investors took a great risk banking on Wilmington at a time when people really weren't hopeful about the city’s resurgence, he recalled. State support on the heels of those investments spurred more interest and investment and, with time, that developer's risk has seemingly paid off. So, too, could be the case for Dover and the developers at Mosaic, which is doing similar work in some Philadelphia communities. “Tm a big believer in painting the picture and working backwards,’ said Mosaic’s Reaves. Mosaic helped DDP program in Delaware. Now they're tag-teaming their expertise and resources on the heart of the First State, where they say long-standing community “anchors” like the Dover Air Force Base, Bayhealth Medical, Delaware State University and the state have an inextricably linked role in seeing this plan through. “We don't have the high-quality assets they want,” Reaves said. “We believe they will bea real critical place to focus to bring people down. The planwas never about bringing all new people to the downtown Dover district.” Part of the plan has focused on Base-level rental rates downtown can cost less than half of what commercial properties on Route 13 demand, since there's just inherently far more traffic along the highway than downtown. streets, a local real estate agent said. That's always going to be a challenge for Dover's downtown. For some, this new vision, and the few visible markers of it coming to fruition, are enough to keep the hope alive for Dover's resurgence. “Tam thinking that it'sa little bit overdue, considering that it's the capital of the First State,” said House of Coffi's Stonesifer. “I'm enthusiastic about the future.” D3T APRIL 2, 2024 / DELAWARE BUSINESS TIMES 11

4116/24, 10:55 AM A Delaware city is on the top 25 list in Southern Living magazine delaware online NEWS This Delaware city is on the list of 25 ‘cities on the rise’ in Southern Living magazine (' ») Ben Mace N Delaware News Journal Published 4:55 a.m. ET April 16, 2024 | Updated 10:33 a.m. ET April 16, 2024 What's one of “The South’s Best Cities on the Rise”? Dover, Delaware, according to Southern Living. In the magazine's April issue, Dover made the final spot on the list of 25 cities "with flourishing downtowns and burgeoning food scenes." These "up-and-coming areas have become hot destinations." What's No.1? Wilmington — but it's Wilmington, North Carolina. Here’s the section in the magazine about Dover: “Delaware’s capital has evolved quite a bit since its early days as the appointed site of Kent County’s courthouse. Still home to the state’s supreme court and other government agencies, the city may be embarking on its biggest season of change to date. In 2023, the Downtown Dover Partnership presented the Capital City 2030 plan that will add a proposed multimodal transportation hub, around 100,000 square feet of commercial development, 20 acres of green space, 1,000 residential units, and a half-mile river walk to be built over the next decade.” More about redevelopment plans: $25 million 'jumpstart' to downtown Dover revitalization for apartments, shops, parking “Cities were picked by Southern Living’s editors, who compiled a roster based on research, reporting and personal experiences,” said Lisa Cericola, the magazine's deputy editor. Then readers selected their top picks in the magazine’s annual "South’s Best" awards survey, which had more than 20,000 respondents. https:/Avww.delawareonline.com/story/news/2024/04/16/dover-delaware-is-on-the-top-25-cities-on-the-rise-list-in-southern-living-magazine/73305962... 115

4/16/24, 10:55 AM A Delaware city is on the top 25 list in Southern Living magazine Diane Laird, executive director of the Downtown Dover Partnership, said it’s “heartening” to see that the plan to transform the core of the city is being noticed outside Delaware. Because of the magazine article, “future residents, workers and small business owners from other parts of the Southern region may be on the lookout for a forward-moving town in which to relocate,” Laird said. The projects mentioned in the story are designed to work together, adding a parking center by December 2026 and then more residential and retail units. In addition to more spaces for cars, the "multi-modal parking center will provide more options for transportation, including biking, scooters and micro-transit options, and a reduced need for vehicles,” serving residents, businesses and visitors, Laird said. “New vibrancy, more businesses and people bringing more ‘eyes on the street’ will significantly reduce vacancy and safety concerns,” she said. New residents downtown will help support local restaurants and retailers. Amenities in the plan include a river walk, an outdoor amphitheater and an art walk with rotating exhibitions “that will bring a wonderful arts vibe to the Capital City,” Laird said. City Council President Bill Hare said regional and national attention on Dover is nothing new. The city has places and events that draw people from surrounding states and across the country including Dover Motor Speedway, Bally’s casino, the former Firefly concerts and the new Phish music festival, and the air show at Dover Air Force Base. But he’s “surprised” and “delighted” that Dover is featured in Southern Living. He remembers Dover being listed as a good weekend destination on a travel website and another listing the monster-mile statue at Dover Motor Speedway as a unique place for a photo-op. But “the Southern Living article goes well beyond those items for national recognition.” Hare said the projects mentioned in the article are the start of the master plan for redevelopment created by Mosaic, a diverse group of planners, along with business owners, residents and government leaders, guided by the Downtown Development Partnership. “Every ... city in America has changed dramatically since World War II. The ‘downtown’ that was the heartbeat of cities needed more attention than just the City Council and the mayor provide,” Hare said. “It needed some group of stakeholders to concentrate on what to do make the downtown viable.” https:/Avww.delawareonline.com/story/news/2024/04/1 6/dover-delaware-is-on-the-top-25-cities-on-the-rise-list-in-southern-living-magazine/73305962... 216

4116/24, 10:55 AM A Delaware city is on the top 25 list in Southern Living magazine He said the “full vision of the plan calls for tying together the cornerstone institutions,” including Dover Air Force Base, the Kent campus of Bayhealth Hospital, Delaware State University, Delaware Technical Community College and state government buildings, with "a range of housing from affordable to high end.” Those key "institutions" are what made Dover an attractive place to start a business for Donny Legans, who opened his beer garden, Rail Haus, last year on North West Street downtown. “We knew Dover had good bones and those elements would be a successful combination for us because they bring in a variety of people,” Legans said. “The diversity is also important. We have a mix of ages and races in Dover.” Mayor Robin Christiansen said he’s pleased to see the magazine's recognition for “our effort to showcase Dover as a great place to live, work and play.” The projects highlighted in the magazine “will enhance the heart of our city, and a healthy heart equates to a healthy, growing, vital city,” he said. Why is Delaware considered to be in the South? Southern Living’s deputy editor said Dover was included in the readers’ survey because the magazine’s coverage area extends from Delaware and Maryland south to Florida and west to Texas and Oklahoma. “We cover Delaware frequently,” Cericola said. “Our readers love small towns and beach towns.” Examples of Delaware stories can be seen on the Southern Living website in a Delaware search. While Delaware could be considered on the border of the South, a notable boundary that puts the state in the North is the Mason-Dixon line, said Sam Hoff, professor emeritus of history and political science at Delaware State University. The Mason-Dixon survey in the mid-1700s was brought up in the 1820 Missouri Compromise about how slavery would be dealt with as states were admitted into the United States, a dividing line of “free states” and those that practiced slavery, Hoff said. In general, states below the Mason-Dixon line were considered slave states. httos:/Avww.delawareonline.com/story/news/2024/04/16/dover-delaware-is-on-the-top-25-cities-on-the-rise-list-in-southern-living-magazine/73305962.., 3/5

4/16/24, 10:55 AM A Delaware city is on the top 25 list in Southern Living magazine While slavery existed in Delaware, the state is north and east of the Mason-Dixon line and fought with the Union during the Civil War. “Slavery in the state had been reduced from its peak by about 90% by the time of the Civil War, but Delaware was one of four states, despite continuing slavery, that did not leave the Union,” Hoff said. While Delaware fought for the Union and housed Confederate prisoners of war, it was split on the subject of slavery, Hoff said. Delaware didn’t ratify the 13th Amendment prohibiting slavery. The amendment was passed by the three-quarters of states needed to become an amendment to the Constitution, without Delaware’s approval. Other reasons for a Southern reputation are less controversial — a rural, agricultural heritage, especially below the canal, and a moderate climate, usually without harsh winters. List of 'The South’s Best Cities on the Rise' in Southern Living magazine 1. Wilmington, North Carolina 2. Franklin, Tennessee 3. Spartanburg, South Carolina 4. Huntsville, Alabama 5. Columbia, South Carolina 6. New Braunfels, Texas 7. Bowling Green, Kentucky 8. Cary, North Carolina g. Alpharetta, Georgia 10. Bentonville, Arkansas 11. Covington, Louisiana 12. Gulfport, Mississippi https:/Avwwaw.delawareonline.com/story/news/2024/04/16/dover-delaware-is-on-the-top-25-cities-on-the-rise-tist-in-southern-living-magazine/73305962... AIS

4/16/24, 10:55 AM A Delaware city is on the tap 25 list in Southern Living magazine 13. Palm Bay, Florida 14. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 15. Georgetown, Texas 16. Frederick, Maryland 17. Gainesville, Georgia 18. Clarksville, Tennessee 19. Hattiesburg, Mississippi 20. Morgantown, West Virginia 21. North Port, Florida 22. Lake Charles, Louisiana 23. Reston, Virginia 24. Edmond, Oklahoma 25. Dover, Delaware Reporter Ben Mace covers real estate, development and business stories. Reach him at rmace@gannett.com. https:/Avww.delawareonline.com/story/news/2024/04/1 6/dover-delaware-is-on-the-top-25-cities-on-the-rise-list-in-southern-living-magazine/73305962... 515