WILMINGTON — New development in Wilmington is a frequent target of criticism by residents concerned with the razing of trees and the quickly disappearing greenspace in the city.
One common suggestion is to redevelop existing properties that could use a facelift and while it is often talked about, it is not frequently done in Wilmington — but on Oleander Drive that could be changing.
A new mixed-use development is being planned for 5429 Oleander Drive, the site of a dilapidated movie theater and parking lot next to Tidal Creek Coop that would breathe life backing to the location.
Anthony Garguilo, co-general manager of Tidal Creek has been working with the developer, Evolve Companies to ensure that the space between the store and the developer works for everyone involved. The space is the location for the weekly “producers only” farmers’ market, as well as other community events hosted by co-op.
“The developer is working closely with us on the plans and is asking us for input on the shared space between our lots. It has been the most ideal situation we could have hoped for with that property,” Garguilo said.
As for Tidal Creek’s garden and deck well, they might see some changes but Garguilo said he does not expect them to go away.
“The deck is going to be covered with a roof, and the garden may be relocated, but we’ll work that out. The [developer] is great, honestly.”
If approved, the new development will consist of 220 residential units as well as around 10,000 square feet of commercial space, according to the application.
“The project will impact the neighborhood through revitalization of these two tracts and provide a residential component to a heavily commercialized area within the corridor. The project will include a transit stop and encourage walkability within the project and in the surrounding commercial neighborhood,” according to the application.
The Wilmington Planning Commission will discuss the item at their upcoming March 6 meeting at 6 p.m.
