Debate Grows Over Traffic Calming Plans on Newark’s Main Street

Rise and Shine, 302—The Empire State Building has its own ZIP code: 10118. That’s what happens when you get 102 floors and 7 million visitors a year. Let’s jump into what’s happening above the canal.

Your 302 Rundown:

• Newark’s Main Street speed bump debate heats up

• Delaware’s bearless bear saga continues

• STAR Campus gets a $200M glow-up

Let’s get to it

NEWS YOU CAN USE

🚒 Speed bumps vs. sirens on Main Street

Newark’s Main Street is at the center of a safety debate. After a tragic crash involving a stolen U-Haul left one pedestrian dead and several injured, residents are pushing for speed bumps to slow traffic. But the Newark Fire Department warns that adding them could delay emergency response.

The city is now weighing pedestrian safety against emergency access. No decisions yet, but it’s a hot topic in town. If you frequent Main Street, this is one to watch.

🐻 Is that you, Delabear?

Black bears have been spotted recently in PA, NJ, and Maryland — and you know what that means. Delaware’s favorite furry fugitive might be gearing up for another cameo. Wildlife officials haven’t confirmed a Delabear sighting yet, but they’re keeping an eye out (and so are we).

Turns out, these solo bear treks are common this time of year. Hungry, curious, and looking for love — classic spring energy. If you see one, don’t panic. Just bring in the bird feeders and admire from afar.

Because let’s be real — bear season in Delaware is basically local celebrity season.

🏡 Home run listing in Greenville

Got $3.5M burning a hole in your pocket? You could own a piece of Delaware royalty — the Du Pont estate formerly owned by Phillies legend Ruly Carpenter just hit the market. Known as Ball Farm (adorable), the 10.5-acre property sits across from Wilmington Country Club and comes with a side of World Series history.

Built in 1923 and once part of E.I. du Pont’s original 1812 land purchase, it’s got that old-school elegance with plenty of lush lawn for a very fancy game of catch.

Even if you’re not in the market, it’s worth a little Zillow daydream.

🚧 Night owls, take note: I-95 & 896 closures ahead

Heads up, late-night drivers! Overnight lane closures are scheduled this week on I-95 near the Route 896 interchange. From May 12 to May 16, expect intermittent closures between 7 PM and 6 AM as crews continue construction on the I-95/SR 896 Interchange Project. These closures are part of ongoing efforts to improve traffic flow and safety in the area. Wagman Construction+2I-95 & 896 Improvements+2I-95 & 896 Improvements+2

Plan accordingly and consider alternate routes to avoid delays. For real-time updates and more information, visit the project's official website: 95896improvements.com.

IN BUSINESS

💼 Big bank, big boost for small biz

Barclays is doing more than just swiping cards — they’re swiping right on Delaware entrepreneurs. In partnership with the Delaware Small Business Development Center, they’re launching a program to fund and mentor local startups, aiming to turn fresh ideas into thriving ventures.

The initiative gives future business owners the tools (and cash) to get off the ground. Whether you’re dreaming of a bakery, boutique, or tech breakthrough, this could be your big break.

Moral of the story: Barclays is banking on Delaware.

🏗️ STAR Campus gets a glow-up

The Buccini/Pollin Group just broke ground on a 229-unit apartment complex at UD’s STAR Campus, and it’s not your average student housing. Think upscale living with a pool, pickleball court, dog run, indoor basketball half-court, and a fully equipped fitness center. The project is set to welcome residents by 2026.

Located just north of the Chemours Discovery Hub, this development aims to attract professionals from nearby science, finance, and healthcare institutions. It’s a significant step in transforming the former Chrysler plant site into a vibrant live-work community.

With this addition, STAR Campus is not just about research and innovation—it’s becoming a place to call home.

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

🏠 Wilmington weighs rent caps

Big news for renters: Wilmington City Council is gearing up to vote on a rent stabilization proposal that would limit yearly increases to 3% (or the rate of inflation, whichever’s lower). The goal? Protect tenants from jaw-dropping hikes and keep housing affordable.

Landlords could still raise rent beyond that — but only if they’ve made serious upgrades. New buildings would be exempt for 10 years, giving developers room to breathe.

It’s a hot-button issue, and the final vote’s set for May 22. Stay tuned — this one could shake things up.

FORECAST AT A GLANCE

Monday
82 🌡️ 62 | ⛅ | 15% | 💨 SE 10 mph (9 knots)

Tuesday
70 🌡️ 61 | 🌧️ | 54% | 💨 ESE 14 mph (12 knots)

💧🌡️ Water temperature = 60.1ºF
Temperature readings taken from the Atlantic Ocean in Rehoboth Beach.

WEEKNIGHT SOCIAL

Monday

• Grain KSQ | Trivia w/ Riley | 7—9 PM

• Grain on Main | Classic Bingo w/ Rylie | 6—8 PM

Tuesday

• Bellefonte Brewing Company | Music Bingo | 7—9 PM

• Grain Exchange | Jeopardy Bar League | 6—8 PM

• Grain on Main | Trivia w/ Rylie | 6—8 PM

• Trolley Tap House | Music Video Bingo | 7—9 PM

• Wilmington Brew Works | Board Game Social | 5—9 PM

What did I miss? Let me know!

LIVE MUSIC

Monday

• Argilla Brewing Co | The Sin City Band | 7—11 PM

• Brew HaHa! Greenville | Shaun Dougherty | 10 AM — 1 PM

• Brew HaHa! Trolley Square | Shawn Q Duo | 10 AM — 1 PM

• Chesapeake Inn | Emily Moses McNatt | 6—9 PM

Tuesday

• Chancery Market | Karaoke - DJ Ski | 6—8 PM

• Chesapeake Inn | Howsmyhat | 6—9 PM

• Deer Park Tavern | High Five Swan Dive Duo | 10 PM

• St Georges Country Store | Mark Hummel’s Allstar Band Featuring Anson Funderburg, Wes Star & Bill Stuve | 6—9 PM

What did I miss? Let me know!

APPRECIATE YA!

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