In addition to the government and military, Dover’s healthcare sector is robust and continues to expand. “We’ve got Bayhealth Medical Facility, and a lot of spin-off medical activities related to that,” says Hugg. “Specialty services, clinics, and wellness centers are becoming more common, supporting our population and creating new business opportunities.” Delaware State University also makes significant contributions to workforce development and economic synergy. “Having a university in the city allows us to keep talent local,” Hugg adds. “It’s a major employer and an incubator for new ideas and energy that feed directly into our city’s growth.” RESTORING THE HEART OF THE CAPITAL Dover’s historic downtown is undergoing a metamorphosis, guided by the Capital City 2030 Transformation Project. Hugg captures its essence in three words: “Full speed ahead.” “For downtown to prosper, it’s got to be businesses that people want to come to. It’s got to be safe. It’s also got to have some people who live downtown, so you have eyes and feet on the street,” he says.The plan includes restoring historic blocks, introducing mixed-use developments, and creating spaces that reflect the city’s character. A centerpiece of this revitalization is the former Dover Post Office. “We entered an agreement with a developer who’s going to maintain some of the historic features while making it a mixed-use residential and commercial building,” Hugg explains. The goal is to turn it into a gateway to downtown. This ambitious vision has been recognized and supported at the state level. Governor Carney committed $25 million to downtown revitalization and an additional $10 million for a multi-story parking facility.“We strongly advocated for additional investment downtown,” Mayor Robin R. Christiansen “and the state is now completing a $27.5 million family court building downtown, which will bring 350 employees and countless visitors, all of whom will need food, services, and parking.” 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 07 DOVER, DE
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