• Promote Mixed-Use and Commercial Development: Encouraging projects that incorporate a combination of hospitality, retail/dining, and/or office with structured parking to enhance downtown vibrancy. • Historic Preservation & Design Sensitivity: Ensure designs are harmonious with the architectural character of Delaware’s Historic Downtown District, following the City’s historic preservation guidelines regarding materials, setbacks, building stepbacks, and building massing. • Public Parking Replacement/Enhancement: Replace and/or increase the existing public parking spaces on-site. Structured parking solutions are strongly encouraged, with potential use of Tax Increment Financing (“TIF”), abatements, and New Community Authorities (“NCAs”) for offsetting structured parking costs for desirable development types. • Economic Impact: Maximize the positive economic benefits to the City, other political subdivisions, and the local School District. If Developer is chosen to move to the RFP stage, an economic impact analysis will be required for the proposed development. • Connectivity & Walkability: Incorporate walkable, urban design with minimal building setbacks from the street right-of-way, providing an engaging pedestrian experience and preserving significant viewsheds of downtown and Ohio Wesleyan.
