Municipal Mapping for Livable Delaware

Delaware is trying to address the problem of sprawl or poorly planned growth. The cumulative impact of sprawl has been the degradation of the state's water quality, groundwater pollution, increased impervious surfaces leading to flooding problems, and the loss of local community character. Well-managed development can alleviate traffic congestion and reduce the loss of farmland and natural habitats. Governor Ruth Ann Minner signed into legislation House Bill 255 requiring local jurisdictions to have comprehensive plans certified by the governor. This requires municipalities to plan their development five years in advance. Important issues, such as growth and annexation, creating or maintaining a community's character, and directing development, can be addressed so that the new land use plans can exist in harmony with the community's valuable natural resources.

Recently, Governor Minner signed Executive Order 61, strengthening her Livable Delaware agenda by directing all state agencies to preserve Delaware's green infrastructure, which includes the state's natural areas such as parks, preserves, wetlands, woodlands, and agricultural land.

The University of Delaware, Institute for Public Administration has been working with the Delaware Office of State Planning Coordination to assist municipalities in completing and certifying their comprehensive plans. This proactive planning approach will truly make Delaware a better place to live and visit.

For more information, see the Livable Delaware Agenda and Municipal Planning Developmental Project Sites.