There have been two campground conceptual plans recently introduced to Sussex County for zoning approval which have been met with strong opposition by local residents. Both of these campground concepts were slated for two beautiful locations within close proximity of our coastline and would attract additional visitors and commerce to our area.
Additionally, both proposals have been introduced by responsible developers who have a long history of creating well-planned communities in which they reside.
Campgrounds today are far different than they were 20-plus years ago. Your typical camper today will visit their favorite campground in a $50,000 camper or motorhome over a long weekend and will contribute more to the local economy than your average vacationer. Campers need supplies, groceries, equipment and other ancillary items which support local commerce.
There have been numerous advocates vehemently opposed to these new proposals due to traffic concerns. In each of these proposals, both developers had the option to introduce conceptual plans for traditional year round housing developments which would generate far more traffic than a campground due to the seasonal nature of the campground business.
In addition, both of these developers will be required to complete a Traffic Impact Study and will ultimately be required by DELDOT to assume the cost of widening any and all impacted roads to State road specification standards to ensure that the infrastructure can support the increased traffic.
I realize that some residents simply despise new development and would be happy to never see another house constructed. However, there are many residents who live and work in Sussex County who are proponents of new commerce which ultimately leads to new employment opportunities for our residents.
Both of these developers have chosen to assume the risk of converting a piece of real estate that is generating very little income into an economic engine for the entire area. Both of these properties are well-located, well-planned and are market-driven, and we should carefully consider the benefits of plans of this nature.
Casey H. Kenton
Rehoboth Beach
