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Modified Hunters Walk moves forward

Planners OK changed plans: sidewalks reduced, sports courts eliminated
April 3, 2013

The developers of Hunters Walk, a proposed mixed residential and business complex near Lewes, received approval to change two conditions placed on the project in 2009.

The developer, W&J Jones Family LLP, will not be required to construct sidewalks on both sides of streets throughout the 45-acre parcel. In addition, tennis and multi-purpose courts can be eliminated from project plans.

Sidewalks will be built in front of all buildings and parking lots and walking trails will be provided as links within Hunters Walk, located off Kings Highway near the Dartmouth Drive intersection. According to the developer, market research shows little demand for sports courts. As a caveat, the developer will construct a pool and community center within two years of issuance of the first building permit instead of three years as in the original plan.

At its March 14 meeting, Sussex County Planning and Zoning commissioners approved the amended conditions with one stipulation.

Commissioner Mike Johnson said the original plans showed sidewalks on the project's entrance road leading to a school bus stop; the revised plan had no sidewalks. “This is of grave concern to me,” Johnson said. “Without a sidewalk leading to the highway, I'm not prepared to vote on this.”

He said a sidewalk in that location was paramount to pedestrian safety.

Representing the developer, Ben Gordy, of Ocean Atlantic Management, said the site plan would be revised to include sidewalks on both sides of the street leading to the school bus stop.

Hunters Walk includes 144 condominiums in nine buildings along with 23,000 square feet of commercial space. The community will be adjacent to and have access to the Midway Par 3 golf course.

 

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