Friends and neighbors,

Before 2021 is over, I want to give you an update on several job-creating transportation projects underway in the 9th Senate District thanks to the $1.35 billion Bond Bill passed by the Delaware General Assembly in June – the largest infrastructure improvement and jobs creation act in Delaware history.

Below is a list of just some of the major Delaware Department of Transportation projects occurring in the 9th Senate District.

Be sure to click on the blue links below for more information.

Sincerely,

Jack Walsh
Senator, District 9

9th District DelDOT Updates

BR 1-159 on James Street over Christina River

Project Description: Bridge replacement

Project Phase: Construction

Projected Construction Completion: 2022

Project Update: Mumford & Miller Concrete began construction on December 2, 2019. The contractor has installed erosion & sediment control devices, cleared the work area, and installed construction fencing. Several utilities will now relocate their facilities over a 10-month timeframe. Once the utilities are relocated, Mumford & Miller will construct the new bridge adjacent to the existing bridge. Two weekend closures of the road will be required during construction and will be coordinated with area businesses and the traveling public closer to that time.

New Castle County Transit Center

Project Description: Construct a new DART transit facility, including a park & ride, near the Christiana Mall. The project will include roadway connections from Center Boulevard to Churchmans Road. All new infrastructure will also provide pedestrian and bicycle facilities.

Project Phase: Design

Projected Construction Completion: TBD

Project Update: Concept design is underway.

Road A / Del. 7 Improvements

Project Description: Construct a new bridge adjacent to the existing Road A bridge to provide additional capacity between Center Boulevard and Del. 7.

Project Phase: Construction

Projected Construction Completion: Spring 2021

Project Update: The project is substantially complete

Del. 1 widening, Del. 273 to the Roth Bridge

Project Description: Identify and prioritize cost-effective short, mid- and long-term transportation infrastructure improvements along Del. 1 from the Roth Bridge to south of I-95 that will reduce congestion and travel times and improve safety, while minimizing environmental impacts.

Project Phase: Planning

Projected Construction Completion: TBD

Project Update: Planning for the widening of Del. 1, including various interchange improvements, has been ongoing. A project of this magnitude takes many years of planning, environmental approvals, public outreach, design, and ultimately construction. Fortunately we have been able to implement several smaller scale upgrades while the larger project continues through the process. A virtual public workshop was held October 27, 2021, to present the recommended preferred alternative and updates to the noise study and other environmental efforts.

Del. 2 Capitol Trail at Darwin Drive Intersection Improvements

Project Phase: Design

Projected Construction Completion: 2022

Project Update: The project is in design.

Rehabilitation of Bridges 1-242, 1-362, and 1-406

Project Description: Spray liner for bridge rehabilitation

Project Phase: Construction

Projected Construction Completion: Winter 2021/2022

Project Update: The project has been awarded to a contractor. Construction is anticipated to begin in December 2021.

Rehabilitation of Bridges 1-719, 1-720, 1-738, and 1-739 on I-95

Project Description: Bridge rehabilitations.

Project Phase: Design

Projected Construction Completion: TBD

Project Update: The project is in design

Del. 2/Red Mill Road Intersection Improvements

Project Description: Provide safety and capacity improvements at the intersection.

Project Phase: Design

Projected Construction Completion: 2024

Project Update: Right-of-way acquisition is underway. Design is progressing. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2022.

Del. 4/Harmony Road Intersection Improvements

Project Description: Improvements include adding turn lanes and geometric improvements; and pedestrian, bicycle, and transit improvements.

Project Phase: Design

Projected Construction Completion: 2026

Project Update: Alternatives to be developed starting in 2021

Del. 273 and I-95 Interchange Improvement

Project Description: Relocate the I-95 southbound ramp to Del. 273 westbound and provide a signalized intersection to improve safety.

Project Phase: Construction

Projected Construction Completion: Summer 2022

Project Update: Construction began in March 2021. Phase 2A of the project, which limited westbound Del. 273 to one through lane, is now complete. Traffic has been switched to Phase 3, allowing for two through lanes on westbound Del. 273. The westbound Del. 273 ramp to southbound I-95 has also been re-opened. The northbound I-95 ramp to eastbound Del. 273 was re-opened to traffic prior to Thanksgiving 2021. See www.sr273-i95improvements.com for more information.

Del. 273 / Chapman Road Intersection Improvements

Project Description: This project includes widening the westbound Del. 273 ramp to northbound I-95 to include an additional lane. The two left turn lanes from northbound Chapman Road will be restriped to turn into the ramp lane and a choice lane. Along the I-95 ramp, the two lanes will merge together as a zipper merge.

Project Phase: Design

Projected Construction Completion: Winter 2022/2023

Project Update: Design is underway. Construction is anticipated to begin in the fall of 2022, following the construction of the current I-95/SR 273 construction project.

Delaware Avenue Separated Bikeway – Orchard Road to Library Avenue

Project Description: This project provides a two-way separated bicycle facility along Delaware Avenue between Orchard Road and Library Avenue that will accommodate both eastbound and westbound bicycle travel.

Project Phase: Design

Projected Construction Completion: Fall 2022

Project Update: Construction began November 29, 2021

Del. 4, Ogletown Stanton Road/Del. 7, Christiana Stanton Road Phase I, Stanton Split

Project Description: This project will address capacity issues at the Del. 4/Del. 7 Stanton Split intersection by adding turn lanes and other geometric improvements. The project will also include pedestrian and transit facility improvements.

Project Phase: Design

Projected Construction Completion: TBD

Project Update: Traffic analysis and development of alternatives are currently being reviewed.

Friends and neighbors,

The Red Clay Consolidated School District will host an online town hall later this month to review a proposal to construct a cell phone tower on the grounds of Dickinson High School, which would provide upgraded cell service for local residents, including for emergency calls.

A site plan application has been filed with New Castle County by Milestone Communications and AT&T to install a 132-foot wireless telecommunications tower at the high school.

Residents interested in learning more about the proposed tower and application can attend the virtual meeting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, December 16.

To learn more and register for the virtual town hall, visit: http://www.johndickinsonhswireless.com/

Thank you,

Jack Walsh
Senator, District 9

Friends and neighbors,

Starting today, Delaware’s vaccine providers are now administering the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 pediatric vaccine to children ages 5 to 11.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to contact your child’s pediatrician to schedule a vaccination appointment. If your pediatrician is not offering the vaccine at this time, children also can be vaccinated at a limited number of large chain pharmacies, at federally qualified health centers if you are a patient, or at the following Division of Public Health pop up sites:

• Canby Park: 1920 Maryland Ave., Wilmington, DE 19805
• University Plaza, 256 Chapman Road, Suite 100, Newark, DE 19702
• Blue Hen Corporate Center: 655 S. Bay Road, Dover, DE 19901
• Georgetown Plaza: 19 Georgetown Plaza, Georgetown, DE 19947

This announcement from the Delaware Division of Public Health comes after the FDA and CDC approved the Pfizer vaccine for children in this age group.

The reduced Pfizer dose for children was found to be more than 90% protective against developing symptomatic COVID-19.

For a complete list of locations where adult vaccines are available, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine.

MORE INFORMATION

Thank you,

Jack Walsh
Senator, District 9

Friends and neighbors,

Several job-creating roadway and construction projects are underway in the 9th Senate District, with more just around the corner thanks to the $1.35 billion Bond Bill passed by the Delaware General Assembly in June – the largest infrastructure improvement and jobs creation act in Delaware history.

As a member of the Joint Capital Improvement Committee, I have worked hard to deliver for the 9th Senate District and our state.

Below is a list of just some of the major Delaware Department of Transportation projects occurring in the 9th Senate District, along with an update on the neighborhood paving projects planned over the next year.

Click on the links below for more information about each project.

Sincerely,

Jack Walsh
Senator, District 9

9th District DelDOT Updates

BR 1-159 on James Street over Christina River

Project Description: Bridge replacement
Project Phase: Construction
Projected Construction Completion: 2022

Project Update: Mumford & Miller Concrete began construction on December 2, 2019. The contractor has installed erosion & sediment control devices, cleared the work area, and installed construction fencing. Several utilities will now relocate their facilities over a 10-month timeframe. Once the utilities are relocated, Mumford & Miller will construct the new bridge adjacent to the existing bridge. Two weekend closures of the road will be required during construction and will be coordinated with area businesses and the traveling public closer to that time.

New Castle County Transit Center

Project Description: Construct a new DART transit facility, including a park & ride, near the Christiana Mall. The project will include roadway connections from Center Boulevard to Churchmans Road. All new infrastructure will also provide pedestrian and bicycle facilities.
Project Phase: Design
Projected Construction Completion: TBD

Project Update: Concept design is underway.

Road A / Del. 7 Improvements

Project Description: Construct a new bridge adjacent to the existing Road A bridge to provide additional capacity between Center Boulevard and Del. 7.
Project Phase: Construction
Projected Construction Completion: Spring 2021

Project Update: The project is substantially complete

Del. 1 widening, SR273 to the Roth Bridge

Project Description: Identify and prioritize cost-effective short, mid- and long-term transportation infrastructure improvements along Del. 1 from the Roth Bridge to south of I-95 that will reduce congestion and travel times and improve safety, while minimizing environmental impacts.
Project Phase: Planning
Projected Construction Completion: TBD

Project Update: Planning for the widening of Del. 1, including various interchange improvements, has been ongoing. A project of this magnitude takes many years of planning, environmental approvals, public outreach, design, and ultimately construction. Fortunately, DelDOT has been able to implement several smaller scale upgrades while the larger project continues through the process. The new auxiliary lane on southbound Del. 1 between Del. 273 and U.S. 40 is open. A virtual public workshop was held on November 19, 2020. Workshop materials are posted on the project website for those who could not attend. Additional public outreach efforts are anticipated later this year.

HEP NCC, Del. 2 Capitol Trail at Darwin Drive Intersection Improvements

Project Phase: Design
Projected Construction Completion: 2022

Project Update: The project is in design.

Rehabilitation of Bridges 1-242, 1-362, and 1-406

Project Description: Spray liner for bridge rehabilitation
Project Phase: Design
Projected Construction Completion: Winter 2021/2022

Project Update: Design is complete. Construction was anticipated to begin in Fall 2021.

Pavement and Rehabilitation, North IX, 2019

Project Description: This contract includes the mill and overlay of I-95 generally in the area of Churchmans Marsh. The work in the southbound direction extends from I-495 to Del. 1 (skipping the section near Del. 141 that will be improved by a separate project). The work in the northbound direction extends from Del 1 to Del. 141. The project will also widen the southbound I-95 ramp to Churchmans Road to two lanes and signalize that ramp connection at Churchmans Road. This upgrade is expected to reduce the chances of traffic from this ramp backing up onto I-95.
Project Phase: Construction
Projected Construction Completion: Winter 2020/2021

Project Update: The project is substantially complete.

Del. 2/Red Mill Road Intersection Improvements

Project Description: Provide safety and capacity improvements at the intersection.
Project Phase: Design
Projected Construction Completion: 2024

Project Update: Right-of-way acquisition is underway. Design is progressing. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2022.

Del. 4/Harmony Road Intersection Improvements

Project Description: Improvements include adding turn lanes and geometric improvements; and pedestrian, bicycle, and transit improvements.
Project Phase: Design 4 DelDOT Quarterly Legislative Update
Projected Construction Completion: 2026

Project Update: Alternatives to be developed starting in 2021

HSIP NCC, Del. 273 and I-95 Interchange Improvement

Project Description: Relocate the I-95 southbound ramp to Del. 273 westbound and provide a signalized intersection to improve safety.
Project Phase: Construction
Projected Construction Completion: Summer 2022

Project Update: Construction began in March 2021. Work is progressing on guardrail upgrades, new drainage, and the new stormwater pond. Phase 2A of the project, which will limit westbound Del. 273 to one through lane, is expected to last into early September 2021. The westbound SR 273 ramp to southbound I-95 is currently closed and detoured as part of the Phase 2 work

Del. 273 / Chapman Road Intersection Improvements

Project Description: This project includes widening the westbound Del. 273 ramp to northbound I-95 to include an additional lane. The two left turn lanes from northbound Chapman Road will be restriped to turn into the ramp lane and a choice lane. Along the I-95 ramp, the two lanes will merge together as a zipper merge.
Project Phase: Design
Projected Construction Completion: Winter 2022/2023

Project Update: Design is underway. Construction is anticipated to begin in the fall of 2022, following the construction of the current I-95/SR 273 construction project.

Delaware Avenue Separated Bikeway – Orchard Road to Library Avenue

Project Description: This project provides a two-way separated bicycle facility along Delaware Avenue between Orchard Road and Library Avenue that will accommodate both eastbound and westbound bicycle travel.
Project Phase: Design
Projected Construction Completion: Fall 2022

Project Update: Final design is nearly complete and right-of-way acquisition began in Summer 2020.

Del. 4, Ogletown Stanton Road/Del. 7, Christiana Stanton Road Phase I, Stanton Split

Project Description: This project will address capacity issues at the Del. 4/Del. 7 Stanton Split intersection by adding turn lanes and other geometric improvements. The project will also include pedestrian and transit facility improvements.
Project Phase: Design
Projected Construction Completion: TBD

Project Update: Traffic analysis and development of alternatives are currently being reviewed.

Neighborhood Repaving Projects

The Delaware General Assembly created a new program in 2019 to help repave more local neighborhood streets and ensure the safety of our community streets. The program prioritizes the worst-rated roadways with an emphasis on streets near schools, libraries, post offices and the entrances to neighborhoods.

The Joint Capital Improvement Committee dedicated a record $30 million toward the Pilot Subdivision Paving Program this year.

Here in the 9th District, 17 neighborhood roadways are slated for repaving in the coming year.

• Hillside Heights – Greentree Road from Grayrock Road to Brownleaf Road
• Roseville Park – Chestnut Avenue from Polly Drummond Hill Road to Laurel Avenue
• Rutherford – Rolling Drive from Ogletown Stanton Road to Rutherford Drive West
• Green Valley – Valley Drive from Green Valley to Valley Circle South
• Heritage Farms – Wittier Dive from Whitman Drive to Bryan Drive
• Village of Drummond – Holt Road from Chadd Road to Dewalt Road
• Sycamore Gardens – Hudson Drive from Brewster Drive to Mc Cann Road
• Greenleaf Manor – Dempsey Drive from Sullivan to the cul-de-sac
• Harmony Hills – Tamara Road to Durso Drive
• Eastburn Acres – Ellsworth Drive from Madeline Drive to Marta Drive
• Crossan Pointe – Berry Drive from Crossan Court to Crossan Court
• Woodmill – Woodmill Drive East from Woodmill Drive West to end of road; Musket Road from Brownleaf Road to Gerald Drive
• Birchwood Park – Flintlock Road from Birchwood Drive to Gerald Drive
• Pinecrest – Huntington Drive West from Wyncote Drive to Kirkwood Highway
• Woodmill Section II – W Zabenko Drive from E Zabenko to the cul-de-sac
• Greenbridge – Hobart Drive from Old Newark Road to the end of the road

Friends and neighbors,

Fall is here! As we head into a new season, I want to share a few legislative and community updates with you.

In this email, you’ll find information on legislation I sponsored, community news, and local resources.

Please feel free to send me any questions and/or input you may have in a reply email, and I will do my best to respond to each of you.

For more updates, please be sure to follow me on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/SenJackWalsh

Sincerely,

Jack Walsh
Senator, District 9

Legislative Update

In Delaware, our regular legislative session runs each year from the second Tuesday in January through June 30. This fall, the Senate will return for a special session for redistricting. To watch recordings of past proceedings and check for updates on our special session this fall, click here.

Senate Bill 184 Signed by the Governor

Senate Bill 184 allows bidders on large construction contracts to pay a fee instead of participating in an apprenticeship program requirement and directs the state to use that money to promote and expand our existing occupational training programs.

Senate Bill 156 Signed by the Governor

Senate Bill 156 will ensure that laborers and mechanics working on UD construction sites or renovation projects over a certain size are paid competitive wages as determined by the Delaware Department of Labor – regardless of whether those projects are funded with state money.

House Bill 86 Signed by the Governor

House Bill 86 will provide funding for basic special education students in kindergarten through third grade to help students develop strong foundational skills.

Senate Bill 15 Signed by the Governor

Senate Bill 15, which I proudly sponsored, will gradually increase Delaware’s minimum wage to $15 by 2025.

House Bill 178 Signed by the Governor

House Bill 178 codifies Delaware’s year-long teacher residency programs and establishes guidelines for funding them well into the future.

Senate Bill 127 Signed by the Governor

Senate Bill 127 creates a Site Readiness Fund that will allow us to assist qualified businesses and local governments that invest in the development or improvement of commercial and industrial sites.

Around the 9th District

DSWA Collection Event at DelCastle Technical High School

First Responders Day in Newport – Sponsored by Hope Street

Belvedere & Vicinity Community Center Re-Opening

Save the Date!

More info to come.

Our next Food Bank Mobile Food Pantry will be held on November 22 at 11 a.m. at Absalom Jones Community Center.

Treats with Santa – this year, Rep. Kim Williams, Sen. Mantzavinos, Councilman Ken Woods and I will host a special holiday event on December 4 at 11 a.m. at Absalom Jones Community Center

Toll Amnesty

Do you have outstanding toll violations that you got on Route 1 or Interstate 95 between January 1, 2014 and April 30, 2021?

If so, you may be eligible to resolve those outstanding tolls without facing added penalties.

Delaware’s one-time Toll Amnesty Program will run from October 1 through December 31.
This is a one time program so be sure to settle your debts now.

To learn more, visit: de.gov/tollamnesty

To the friends and neighbors in my district,

We’re just two weeks into Phase 1B of our vaccination rollout. During my time volunteering at the vaccination sites at the Delaware City DMV and the Chase Center, I worked alongside health care workers and other volunteers as we tried to get as many people vaccinated as possible. While there have been some stumbling blocks, the results are overwhelmingly positive.

Delaware is now ranked 9th in the country in terms of the percentage of the population who have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccination at 8.5%. We’re also tied for 11th place when it comes to the percentage of our population who have received a second dose.

Our ability to continue at this pace will be dictated by the amount of doses coming in from the federal government. Recently, Delaware has been getting 15,000 to 20,000 doses per week, but production remains a hurdle nationwide. Click here to read more about the issues being encountered by states across the nation and countries around the world.

Given both the limited supply and the federal government basing future vaccine numbers on how many doses the state distributes, the Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is focusing its vaccination efforts on delivering first doses to the highest-risk seniors ages 65 and older and providing second doses to high-risk health care workers as soon as possible.

If you are 65 or older, the first and most important step is to register your willingness to receive the vaccine. Click here to register today! Seniors without computer access can call the COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center at 1 (833) 643-1715 to register.

Our public health officials are committed to ensuring that all Delawareans receive a second dose within 42 days of their first vaccination in keeping with the latest CDC guidelines. The science shows that the first dose of vaccine provides 52-80% protection, making it more effective than the average flu vaccine.

In the meantime, DPH is working to get employer-based vaccination programs set up for teachers, first responders and other frontline essential workers.

Remember, we’re rolling out the largest and most extensive vaccination effort in Delaware history. There are going to be some bumps along the way as DPH scales up that program.

Please contact me with any issues you experience as DPH continues its work. My colleagues and I are in constant contact with agency officials to make sure your concerns are addressed as quickly as possible.

Click here for additional information about Delaware’s vaccine rollout.

In this newsletter you will find updates on:

• Vaccination options for seniors
• Testing sites in our area
• How Delaware is building out its vaccination infrastructure
• Additional steps to protect our most vulnerable neighbors
• And more!

Be well and stay safe!

Jack Walsh
Senator, 9th District

DELAWARE VACCINATION PROGRAM CONTINUES

Delaware is continuing to build out the distribution infrastructure needed to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to larger and larger segments of the population.

The Division of Public Health is currently prioritizing seniors 65 and older, while laying the groundwork to vaccinate workers in essential business included in Phase 1B.

Seniors have multiple options for scheduling their first dose:

• Large scale vaccination events: To participate in an upcoming drive-thru vaccination event, you must first register your willingness to receive the vaccine. Click here to register today! Seniors without computer access can call the COVID-19 Vaccine Call Center at 1 (833) 643-1715 to register.
• Pharmacy-based vaccinations: Pharmacies will eventually become the primary location for vaccinations as more doses become available, but are now limited due to supply. Six pharmacy chains in Delaware are now offering vaccines to seniors by appointment only. All scheduling must be completed online. No walk-ins or phone scheduling is currently available. For a list of participating pharmacies and links to their online scheduling, click here.
• Medical-provider vaccinations: Some primary-care and specialty-care providers have vaccines available for their own patients, while some may invite the public to request appointments. For a list of participating medical providers, click here.

DPH is also partnering with Vault Health and community organizations to expand access to the COVID-19 vaccine among low-income and underserved seniors. A walk-up event targeted to those seniors was held Tuesday at Delaware Technical Community College in Wilmington and more events are being planned.

Educators and school staff are scaling up their own vaccination events now. The Delaware Department of Education held its first clinics in all three counties last week with separate events for child care providers planned later this month. For more information about DOE’s COVID-19 vaccination plan, click here. Email your questions to Education.CovidVaccine@doe.k12.de.us.

Essential workers who fall under Phase 1B soon will be able to get vaccinations through their employers. Businesses that do not already have a vaccination plan are asked to fill out a survey here. Questions can be emailed to VaccinePlanning@delaware.gov.

MORE INFORMATION ON WHERE TO GET VACCINATED

THE LATEST COVID-19 DATA IN DELAWARE

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delaware since mid-March reached 74,575 over the weekend – a 5% increase from one week ago. Statewide, the rate of infection is now 795.2 cases for every 10,000 people.

Hospitalizations are falling from their holiday peak but remain elevated. As of this morning, there were 388 people in the hospital due to COVID-19 complications, down nearly 11% from last week. The number in critical condition fell to 52.

Delaware documented 25 additional Coronavirus-related deaths over the last week, bringing the total number of fatalities to 1,041. Of those, 53% were residents of long-term care facilities.

Visit Delaware’s Coronavirus Data Dashboard for all the latest information about COVID-19’s spread throughout the First State.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE STATE-LEVEL DATA

GET TESTED NOW, GET TESTED OFTEN

Fast, free and convenient testing sites are available in our area this week.

Click here for a full list of state-run and community testing sites in Delaware.

Walgreens is also offering test sites throughout our state. Click here to check available locations and reserve an appointment.

Seniors and other high-risk populations also can get test kits delivered to their homes. You’ll need to download Zoom to your smartphone or other electronic device to complete the test. Click here for more information on how to request an at-home test kit.

HELP DELAWARE FIGHT COVID-19

Volunteers are needed to help bolster the rapidly growing vaccination infrastructure Delaware needs to deliver inoculations to nearly every resident by the end of the year.

The Delaware Medical Reserve Corps is a volunteer group of medical professionals, mental health professionals and everyday people willing to dedicate their time to help our state recover from this pandemic.

Any community member ages 18 and older can offer their services to help register Delawareans for vaccinations, manage traffic and process data at one of our large-scale vaccination events.

Please consider helping your community heal today.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

NEW COVID VARIANT DETECTED IN DELAWARE

Three cases of the COVID-19 variant that originated in the United Kingdom were confirmed in Delaware last week.

All three people live in the same New Castle County household and may have been exposed while attending a family gathering with people from other states. Delaware is now one of 26 states reporting cases of the UK variant.

Preliminary data suggests the UK variant may spread more easily and quickly, but it is not yet known whether it causes more severe illness than the more common Coronavirus.

Public health experts believe current testing will still detect the UK variant and existing COVID-19 vaccines will provide a similar level of protection.

Please step up your efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19 by continuing to frequently wash your hands with soap and water. Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, not your hands. Wear a mask anytime you leave your home. Practice responsible social distancing. Get tested regularly. Sign up to receive the COVID vaccine when it becomes available to you. And limit any in-person gatherings to the immediate members of your household.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

NEW TESTING RESOURCE FOR DELAWARE GROUP HOMES

Delaware group homes, day programs and other provider-managed settings that serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have a new resource for protecting clients and staff.

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services is now making rapid antigen testing kits available to providers that can detect the active COVID-19 virus in 15 minutes.

That kind of quick detection is vital when it comes to serving this especially vulnerable community, who often have underlying health conditions but also rely on close contact and care from direct support professionals who can’t always maintain responsible social distancing.

Using a shallow nasal swab, providers will be able to test staff and more readily identify asymptomatic COVID-19 positive clients. Staff members who test positive will be required to isolate at home and obtain a second COVID test to confirm the rapid test. They will not be permitted to return to work until they provide a negative COVID test or complete their isolation period.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Weekly COVID-19 Press Briefing

Be sure to tune in for Governor John Carney’s weekly press briefing at 1:45 p.m. every Tuesday for the latest information and announcements.

You can watch by visiting his Facebook page or by visiting the State of Delaware’s livestream page.

COVID Alert DE App

Use your phone to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

This free and anonymous app will alert you when you’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19, regardless of whether that person lives in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York or Washington D.C.

Restore the Corridor – Wilmington

DelDOT’s massive, three-year reconstruction of Interstate 95 bridges, ramps and pavement is set to begin on February 12, 2021.

During Phase 1, the northbound lanes of I-95 will be closed from I-495 to an area between the Brandywine River Bridge and the U.S. Route 202 off-ramp. Northbound traffic and southbound traffic will share the 1-95 southbound side of the roadway, with one lane in each direction.

Access into/out of the City of Wilmington will remain open, but some ramps will be closed (see below image).

Commuters can access real-time travel advisories and updates by visiting DelDOT.gov or by downloading the DelDOT app from the Google Play or Apple App Store directly to their smartphones or other electronic devices.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Hello friends and neighbors,

We’re less than 24 hours away from the start of the 151st General Assembly!

This year, for the first time ever, you’ll be able to watch from home as we swear in new and newly-elected Senators, formally elect a President Pro Tempore and confirm our new Secretary of the Senate, starting at 2 p.m.

To watch live, look for the Live Proceedings section in the upper right of the Delaware General Assembly’s homepage. Or if you want to come back later to watch, recordings of past proceedings will be available by clicking on the Meetings and Archives link, or simply by clicking here.

We’ll be meeting virtually through at least January, as the COVID-19 pandemic begins to surge again in the wake of the winter holidays. New cases rose to post-Thanksgiving levels last week while new hospitalizations have also started to creep up again.

Governor John Carney announced Friday that he is continuing the stay-at-home advisory and the universal indoor mask mandate for at least another 30 days, while lifting some restrictions on bars, restaurants and sports competitions. He’s asked school districts to return to a mix of remote and in-person instruction.

Medical offices and pharmacies throughout Delaware are currently signing up to administer the vaccine to the next group of recipients, which will include seniors, first responders, teachers and frontline essential workers. Seniors should contact their medical providers now to ask if they are or plan to vaccinate patients.

In the meantime, continue protecting yourself, your family and your community by wearing a mask whenever you leave home, practicing social distancing around anyone outside your immediate household, washing your hands often and getting tested regularly.

In this newsletter, you will find updates on:

• Testing sites in our area
• Changes to the COVID restrictions
• Additional assistance for local businesses and nonprofits
• The latest news on Delaware’s vaccination plan
• And more

Be well and stay safe,

Jack Walsh
Senator, 9th District

THE LATEST COVID-19 DATA IN DELAWARE

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delaware since mid-March reached 65,273 today – a 9.7% increase from one week ago. Statewide, the rate of infection is now 695.9 cases for every 10,000 people.

After a brief plateau, hospitalizations are on the rise once again. As of this morning, there were 472 people in the hospital with COVID-19, up 12% from last week. The number in critical condition rose to 62.

Delaware documented 42 new Coronavirus-related deaths over the last week, bringing the total number of fatalities to 972 – a one-week increase of 4.5%. Of those who have lost their lives in the past 10 months, 53.5% were residents of long-term care facilities.

Visit Delaware’s Coronavirus Data Dashboard for all the latest information about COVID-19’s spread throughout the First State.

CLICK HERE TO SEE MORE STATE-LEVEL DATA

GET TESTED NOW, GET TESTED OFTEN

With COVID-19 again spiking after last month’s holidays, it’s more important than ever to make a plan for getting tested.

More fast, free and convenient testing sites are available in our area than ever before.

Click here for a full list of state-run and community testing sites available in your area.

Walgreens is also offering test sites across the state. Click here to check available locations and reserve an appointment.

Seniors and other high-risk populations are encouraged to request at-home test kits that can arrive in three days or less. You’ll need to download Zoom to your smartphone or electronic device to complete the test. Click here for more information on how to request an at-home test kit.

COVID GUIDELINE UPDATES FOR BUSINESSES AND SCHOOLS

Governor John Carney made two big announcements last week regarding COVID-19.

While he extended several restrictions – including the stay-at-home advisory and the universal mask mandate – to combat the winter surge in new cases and hospitalizations, the governor also lifted the 10 p.m. curfew imposed on bars and restaurants late last year.

The modification announced Friday also allows athletic competitions to resume as long as in-person attendance by spectators is strictly limited.

Governor Carney also joined with top health and education officials in urging Delaware schools to return to a mix of remote and in-person learning one month after recommending school districts pause their hybrid models to work out any lingering operational issues.

The governor believes students learn best in school and contends the data shows there is a reduced risk of community spread among young people. The state educators union, however, remains concerned teachers and staff could be exposed.

There are no easy answers here. We know many young people struggle with remote learning and would benefit from the option of returning to school. The concerns of teachers and staff are also valid and we have said so for several months now.

Each school board must now make the decision they think is best for their students and educators. My hope is every district or charter school will look carefully at the spread in their communities and then work collaboratively with educators to develop the best solution for students, families and staff.

DE RELIEF GRANTS SET TO RETURN JANUARY 19

Applications for DE Relief Grants will be accepted once again starting at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, January 19.
This vital resource for businesses fighting to stay open during the pandemic was paused in December while Delaware awaited a new round of federal CARES Act funding.

Small businesses and nonprofits that have not applied in earlier rounds will now be able to seek these federally funded grants to cover rent and utilities, debt refinancing and safety upgrades.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DE RELIEF GRANTS

SECOND PHASE OF VACCINATIONS COMING SOON

The Delaware Division of Public Health is working hard to roll out vaccinations for the next round of eligible groups by late January.

Anyone 65 or older will be eligible for vaccination in Phase1b, which is expected to begin by the end of January. First responders, teachers and school support staff and other frontline essential workers also will be included in this group.

DPH is working quickly to identify and help enroll medical offices and pharmacies willing to vaccinate older Delawareans and other groups as the vaccine becomes available to them.

Due to limited supply of the vaccine, everyone in this group may not be able to be vaccinated immediately. Contact your medical provider now to determine if they will be vaccinating patients.

Check back for more information, including possible vaccination sites, as those details are finalized.

In the meantime, you can submit all of your questions about the COVID-19 vaccine to the DPH call center open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. You can reach the call center at (302) 672-6150 or email your questions to Vaccine@delaware.gov.

HELP DELAWARE RECOVER BY JOINING THE MEDICAL RESERVE CORPS

Volunteers are needed to help bolster the rapidly growing vaccination infrastructure Delaware needs to deliver inoculations to nearly every resident by the end of the year.

The Delaware Medical Reserve Corps is a volunteer group of medical professionals, mental health professionals and everyday people willing to dedicate their time to help our state recover from this pandemic.

Any community member ages 18 and older can offer their services to help register Delawareans for vaccinations, manage traffic and process data.

Please consider helping your community heal today.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

VIRTUAL MLK DAY OF SERVICE

The teachings of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. are as vital today as they were during his lifetime, whether it’s his sermons about love, race, poverty or war.

The federal holiday celebrating his life could not fall on the calendar at a better time for those of us in the Delaware General Assembly. Just as we begin our new session, we join with our neighbors each year for a day of service – a perfect reminder of the selfless commitment to community, equality and fairness that should always drive what we do in Legislative Hall.

Like so many of our sacred holidays, MLK Day will be a bit different this year. But our dedication to those causes will not be abated.

The State Office of Volunteerism and Volunteer Delaware have made sure we can still engage in acts of service to our community virtually.

Please consider registering for this full-day event where volunteer leaders from across the state will demonstrate a wide variety of ways we can still serve. The livestream will begin at noon and continue until 8 p.m. with the final hour dedicated to celebrating the 2020 Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Award honorees and hearing the stories of volunteers who have gone above and beyond in their service to our state.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER TODAY

Hello friends and neighbors,

COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths have continued to climb at a record pace since Thanksgiving. As many of us prepare for Christmas and New Years Day, each of us has to take responsibility for protecting our loved ones and getting this winter surge under control.

Enhanced restrictions intended to limit the number of people congregating indoors took effect this morning. Please follow them.

Shop responsibly and order online or by phone whenever possible. Limit holiday gatherings to your immediate family. Wear face coverings. Practice social distancing. Wash your hands often. And please, get tested regularly.

In this week’s newsletter, you will find updates on:

• Delaware’s enhanced COVID-19 restrictions
• Testing sites available in our area this week
• Tips for safely enjoying the holidays
• Delaware’s plan to distribute the COVID-19 vaccine
• And more

Be well and stay safe,

Jack Walsh
Senator, 9th District

NUMBER OF COVID-19 CASES

Delaware last week continued to set new records for this pandemic. We saw the largest number of new cases reported in a single day (1,058) on Friday. We also recorded the highest 7-day rolling average for new cases (826) on Friday. And we hit the most COVID-19 hospitalizations at one time (348) on Wednesday.

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Delaware since mid-March has now reached 45,460 – a 14% increase from a week ago. Statewide, the rate of infection is now 484.5 cases for every 10,000 people.

Hospitalizations increased by 13 percent last week to 357 people, while the number in critical condition rose to 55.

Delaware documented 23 deaths since last week, bringing the total number of fatalities to 816. Of those 55% were residents of long-term care facilities.

Be sure to continue visiting Delaware’s COVID-19 website for all the latest data, news, community resources and plans for distributing a safe and effective vaccine.

Click Here To Visit coronavirus.delaware.gov

ENHANCED RESTRICTIONS KEEP BUSINESSES OPEN

Governor John Carney announced several enhanced restrictions last week that went into effect throughout Delaware this morning.

While these new rules mean fewer people are temporarily being allowed inside large retailers, they set smaller limits for smaller businesses. The governor deserves a lot of credit for this change, which puts mom-and-pop shops on equal footing as they close out the holiday shopping season.

• Big stores with more than 100,000 square feet are now being held to 20 percent of fire capacity, while retail stores with less than 5,000 square feet will be allowed to operate at 40 percent of capacity. Businesses in between can continue to operate at 30 percent.
• All houses of worship and funeral homes, regardless of size, can operate at 40 percent.
• Mall food courts can hit 20 percent capacity or 100 people, whichever is smaller.
• Exercise classes at gyms can continue with up to 10 people, so long as exercise machines are spaced at least 10 feet apart.
• Indoor public events, just like indoor gatherings in homes, also must be held to 10 or fewer people, while outdoor gatherings should not exceed 50 people without a plan approved by the Delaware Division of Public Health.
• Restaurants and bars must now close at 10 p.m.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

GET TESTED NOW, GET TESTED OFTEN

Share holiday cheer this month, not COVID-19. Protect yourself, your loved ones and your community by getting tested regularly.

More fast, free and convenient testing sites are available in our area than ever before.

For a full list of state-run and community testing sites in Delaware, click here.

Walgreens is also offering 13 test sites across the state by appointment only. To check available locations and reserve an appointment, click here.

DELAWARE PREPARES TO RECEIVE COVID-19 VACCINE

Nearly 8,800 doses of the FDA-approved Pfizer vaccine are expected to arrive in the First State this week, marking what many hope will be a turning point in our efforts to contain this deadly disease.

This vaccine has a 90 percent effectiveness rate but requires two doses spaced about three weeks apart.

Due to the initial limited supply of the vaccine, Delaware health officials have developed a multi-tier strategy for distribution.

The first people to get the vaccine will be health care workers, emergency medical services agencies and staff at long-term care facilities – all of whom are on the front lines of this battle.

By early next year, workers in high-risk, critical infrastructure industries will begin to get the vaccine. That includes first responders, teachers, poultry plant workers, along with people in close-proximity group living facilities such as prisoners, people in homeless shelters and seniors with underlying health conditions.

State health workers expect to begin vaccinating more moderate-risk Delaware residents by March and introduce the vaccine to the general public by late spring or early summer.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

WEEKLY PRESS BRIEFING

Be sure to tune in for Governor John Carney’s weekly press briefing at 1:45 p.m. every Tuesday for the latest information and announcements.

You can watch by visiting his Facebook page or by visiting the State of Delaware’s livestream page.

COVID ALERT DE APP

Use your phone to help slow the spread of COVID-19.

This free and anonymous app will alert you when you’ve been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19, regardless of whether that person lives in Delaware, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Jersey, New York or Washington D.C.

EMERGENCY FOOD PANTRIES ARE AVAILABLE

The Food Bank of Delaware will be holding a drive-thru mobile pantry in New Castle County this week. Pre-register to save time or register at the event.

Friday, December 18
11 a.m. – Frawley Stadium, 801 Shipyard Drive, in Wilmington
Pre-register: DecNewCastleCountyFood.eventbrite.com

Several financial assistance programs are available to help support Delaware families and businesses in-need:

COVID-19 RELIEF & SUPPORT

Several financial assistance programs are available to help support Delaware families and businesses in-need:

Housing Assistance

Help is available statewide for eligible renters and homeowners impacted by COVID-19.

Renters affected by COVID can now receive up to $8,000 in financial assistance, while impacted homeowners can now apply for up to $10,000 in help covering their mortgage costs. Eligible income limits also have been adjusted so more Delawareans can take advantage of these CARES ACT funded programs.

At this time, applications will be accepted until December 30, 2020.

LEARN MORE

Food Assistance

Families struggling to keep food on the table this winter might be eligible for SNAP benefits.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program helps families afford nutritious meals. Benefits are automatically issued electronically to your Delaware Food First card each month and can be used at your local grocery store.

The SNAP Outreach team at the Food Bank of Delaware can even walk you through the application process.

LEARN MORE

Health Care Relief Fund

Delaware’s healthcare workers have stepped up in heroic ways during this pandemic. As they work to save lives and protect our most vulnerable neighbors, our healthcare industry is also facing unprecedented financial pressure. That’s why Governor John Carney recently dedicated $100 million in CARES Act funding to help support their fight against COVID-19.

LEARN MORE

Higher Education Assistance

A $45 million fund was recently announced to help Delaware’s colleges and universities avoid tuition increases or a reduction in student loans and grants as they weather this pandemic.

Funded by the CARES Act, these funds must be used on specific expenses related to the COVID-19 response.

LEARN MORE

CELEBRATE SAFELY

This holiday season has to be different than years past if we’re going to get through this safely.

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, we all need to work together to keep our holiday gathering safe.

Delaware health officials have five recommendations for how you can celebrate responsibly.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

WINTER WEATHER WARNING

Some areas of Delaware could become a winter wonderland as soon as Wednesday, when a nor’easter is expected to bring a few inches of snow to the First State.

Prepare now for snow and icy conditions that could impact travel on our roadways. Make sure you have emergency kits in your vehicle and your home. And please bring your pets inside any time there is a winter storm or freezing temperatures.

To help you stay better informed during winter weather events, I’m including a list of helpful agencies, their websites and their social media sites below:

National Weather Service-Mount Holly for weather conditions and winter storm warnings:

• https://www.weather.gov/phi/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NWSMountHolly
• Twitter: @NWS_MountHolly

DelDOT to check road conditions before travel:

• http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001QoGBUEJfblkiRBJPgC5GdZNe3Td8LeRVQ6Qy7M5tVVGeVB0G072Rb7Mo2hWBFYyknxz7nUoJkv_0Z3awVhgfDKuvoCLwT9BFvcE4QEQ11anNzGuLi3kGwx6y5ns4-PwRoxAGWbqvSil2UoaEJg9PJbqLRZCgLYfQ9vjbw9zSVtJmuI2U3eMMvEvc8-gVFtEp&c=PKSuq0NU1gBw7CbfHoJypZhuitqsOXpzyjbA1o_6q8SxTmTrikIsvg==&ch=lvUlzLZR4fCoU9SPDaHpoaMN7GoHu9T3iRO-B6FqADrEnWe5FkG8og==
• Radio: FM 5in New Castle County or 1380 AM statewide
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/delawaredot
• Twitter: @DelawareDOT

DEMA for updates and state office closures

• DEMA.delaware.gov
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DelawareEMA
• Twitter: @DelawareEMA

PrepareDE for tips on how to be prepared for this winter and all hazards in Delaware:

• prepareDE.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PrepareDE
• Twitter: @PrepareDE

Center for Environmental Monitoring and Analysis for snow totals and data:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UDCEMA
• Twitter: @UDCEMA

Hello friends and neighbors,

This pandemic is not over.

COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths are continuing to rise rapidly across the country. I want to be sure you are getting the latest information about what we are doing here in Delaware to control the spread and keep our economy moving.

Please continue to wear face coverings in public, wash your hands often, stay home whenever possible and get tested often.

In this newsletter, you will find updates on

• New COVID-19 restrictions
• Community testing sites
• Tips on holiday shopping safely, and more

Be sure to continue visiting Delaware’s COVID-19 website for all the latest data, news, community resources and plans for distributing a safe and effective vaccine as soon as one is approved.

Be well and stay safe,

Jack Walsh
Senator, 9th District

NUMBER OF COVID-19 CASES

Delaware documented 7 coronavirus-related deaths last week, bringing the total number of fatalities to 770 since this pandemic began. Of those, about 56 percent were residents of long-term care facilities.

The cumulative number of confirmed COVID-19 cases recorded in Delaware since mid-March has now hit about 35,250 — three times the number since July. The rate of infection statewide is 375 cases for every 10,000 people. In New Castle County, the rate is now 355 cases per 10,000 people, compared with 283 in Kent County and 525 in Sussex. The seven-day average of new cases rose to nearly 472 per day as of November 26.

Hospitalizations increased by nearly 20 percent last week to 211 people, while the number of people in critical condition rose to 31.

Click Here For More Information

COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS REINTRODUCED

With the number of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations steadily rising since late October, Governor John Carney re-instituted a number of limited, statewide restrictions that took effect last week.

Shops, restaurants, churches and gyms are NOT being ordered to close. Instead, these targeted measures use everything we have learned over the past year to slow the spread, while also preserving our economy.

Up to $25 million in additional funding is also being made available to hundreds of businesses to help offset the impact of these changes.

The enhanced restrictions include:

• Indoor gatherings in homes must be capped at no more than 10 people.
• Indoor gatherings outside of homes must be limited to 30 percent of the venue’s stated fire capacity, up to a cap of 50 people. This includes all events, such as weddings, funerals, services in houses of worship, performances, political gatherings, and events in public spaces including fire halls.
• Outdoor public gatherings are limited to 50 people. Up to 250 may be allowed with a plan approved by the Delaware Division of Public Health.
• Restaurants must operate at no more than 30 percent of fire capacity indoors, with allowances for additional outdoor seating.
• Starting at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, December 1, Delaware youth sports organizations, teams and venues are prohibited from hosting or participating in tournaments with out-of-state teams. Delaware teams also will be prohibited from traveling across state lines for tournaments.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

GET TESTED NOW, GET TESTED OFTEN

More than 47,000 COVID-19 tests were conducted in Delaware the week before Thanksgiving as people undertook extra precautions before visiting family or returning home from college.

Getting tested before the holiday is only the first step. To help control the spread, you also should get tested after seeing loved ones in person. Keep in mind that it can take 4 to 6 days from your exposure to the virus before a test will reveal a positive result.

Below you will find a list of testing sites available in our area this week.

Walgreens is also offering test sites at 8 locations across the state with five more to be added, starting Tuesday, December 1. All Walgreens Pharmacy testing sites are now operating by appointment only.

Click here to check available Walgreens locations and reserve an appointment.

Click here for a full list of state-run and community testing sites in Delaware.

SHOP LOCALLY AND SAFELY

Supporting our local small business community has never been more important than now.

Small businesses statewide have created innovative ways to shop safely this holiday season. Take a look at this list of some of the businesses offering safer holiday shopping options this year.

LEARN MORE

S

COVID-19 Relief & Support

Several financial assistance programs are available to help support Delaware families and businesses:

Housing Assistance

Help is available statewide for eligible renters and homeowners impacted by COVID-19.

Renters affected by COVID can now receive up to $8,000 in financial assistance, while impacted homeowners can now apply for up to $10,000 in help covering their mortgage costs. Eligible income limits also have been adjusted so more Delawareans can take advantage of these CARES ACT funded programs.

LEARN MORE

Business Assistance

Another $25 million in CARES Act funding is now available to small businesses and nonprofits through the DE Relief Grants program. These grant funds can be used to cover rent and utilities, debt refinancing and safety upgrades.

The deadline to apply is Friday, December 4.

LEARN MORE

Health Insurance Assistance

Every Delawarean deserves access to affordable health care, especially during a global pandemic. Those who have lost jobs or had their hours reduced can still qualify for insurance on the Delaware Health Insurance Marketplace. The open enrollment period will remain open until December 15.

For assistance in getting started today, contact a local navigator by calling (800) 318-2596 or simply click here.

LEARN MORE

Health Care Relief Fund

Delaware’s healthcare workers have stepped up in heroic ways during this pandemic. As they work to save lives and protect our most vulnerable neighbors, our healthcare industry is also facing unprecedented financial pressure. That’s why Governor John Carney recently dedicated $100 million in CARES Act funding to help support their fight against COVID-19.

LEARN MORE

Higher Education Assistance

A $45 million fund was recently announced to help Delaware’s colleges and universities avoid tuition increases or a reduction in student loans and grants as they weather this pandemic.
Funded by the CARES Act, these funds must be used on specific expenses related to the COVID-19 response.

LEARN MORE

GIVE BLOOD, SAVE A LIFE

The Blood Bank of Delmarva is issuing an urgent call for blood donations of all types.

College and high school students who typically donate at school-based blood drives are being asked to step up and schedule a donation appointment today.

The Blood Bank is teaming up with Bayhealth and Beebe Healthcare to increase donation sites and hours to help make up the difference. Dozens of churches, civic organizations and fire companies are also setting up mobile drives in our area.

Donating blood is safe and only takes about an hour.

Schedule an appointment now by calling 1-888-8-BLOOD-8 or click the link below:

SCHEDULE A DONATION