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Wilmington City Council Approves $10 Million for Downtown Bracebridge Higher Education Center

The Wilmington City Council has recently approved a budget amendment that allocates $10 million for the redevelopment of a former Bank of America office building into a shared higher education space in downtown Wilmington.

Redevelopment Plans

The initiative seeks to convert the largely vacant Bracebridge building, which previously served as a hub for the credit card company MBNA before its acquisition by Bank of America in 2006. The six-building complex currently accommodates the biopharmaceutical company Incyte, some remaining Bank of America employees, and the Community Education Building, which serves pre-K through secondary education.

The Bridge Project

Plans are underway to transform part of this complex, specifically Bracebridge II, into shared facilities for both Widener University Delaware Law School and Delaware State University’s Nursing Program. Dubbed The Bridge project, this construction initiative is estimated to require a total investment of $60 million, with initial funding secured through Wilmington’s budget.

Community Impact

Councilmember Michelle Harlee, who sponsored the amendment, expressed optimism about the potential returns generated by the investment for the city. Harlee articulated the project’s significance, stating, “A city is either growing or is dying, and I see The Bridge project as an asset to helping and supporting Wilmington to grow.”

Mayor’s Perspective

Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki noted that no other city of comparable size lacks a major educational institution, deeming the investment modest in light of the anticipated benefits. He remarked on the potential impact of having 2,000 students contributing to the local vitality, describing the scenario as invaluable.

Funding Approval

The funding appropriation received unanimous approval from the City Council members attending the meeting. This allocation complements existing financial support, including at least $10 million from the Delaware General Assembly’s 2025 Bond Bill, $5.7 million from New Castle County, and additional contributions from private and corporate donors.

Projected Timeline

Should the remaining funding targets be achieved, the new educational facility is projected to open by fall 2028.

Source: Delaware Public Media

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