KENT COUNTY, DE
County Offices
555 Bay Road
Dover, DE
302-744-2300
www.co.kent.de.us
Chamber of Commerce
435 N. Dupont Highway
Dover, DE
302-678-0892
https://www.cdcc.net/
Services
Home of the capital city of Dover as well as the largest Air Force aerial port facility on the East Coast, this region plays an influential role in state and national governmental activity. Private industry is rapidly diversifying and expanding, fueled by the educated labor force, the low cost of conducting business, proximity to major U.S. markets, the high quality of life, and pure economic potential. In spite of the trend toward urbanization, the county’s farms still produce a variety of crops and lead the state in dairy products and potatoes.
Along with a robust and growing economy, Kent County enjoys an excellent transportation system of State and U.S. highways that link the region to Delaware’s northern and southern quadrants as well as key destinations in Maryland and Pennsylvania. In fact, the increased efficiency of highway networks has played a vital role in the influx of new economic activity and new residents to central Delaware. Quick and easy access to Interstate 95 and Wilmington’s burgeoning employment centers has spurred a heightened interest in the area’s housing resources and charming communities.
State-of-the-art healthcare facilities include the Central Delaware Surgery Center, Kent Medical Care for minor injuries and illnesses, and the expansive services of the Bayhealth Medical Center. Milford Memorial Hospital and Kent General Hospital merged in 1997 to form Bayhealth Medical Center, now distinguished as the second largest healthcare system in the state. More than 375 beds, a medical staff exceeding 215, and nearly 2,000 employees ensure advanced medical technology, progressive treatment, the latest equipment, and extensive health education programs.
The smaller, more manageable size of area school districts combines with efficient and progressive programs to offer students an exceptional public education. A good selection of private schools, both religiously affiliated and independent, provide educational alternatives. Institutions of higher education as well as vocational schools and community colleges ensure the acquisition of skills, training, certifications, and degrees necessary for success in a highly competitive marketplace.
Dover serves as the county’s educational hub, home to Delaware State University, a campus for Delaware Technical & Community College, a cooperative extension service and resource centers for the University of Delaware, Wesley College, and the Silver Lake Site of Wilmington College. Delaware State University is the state’s only historically black institution of higher learning and continues to follow a philosophy of cultural enrichment, freedom of expression, and intensive classroom instruction.
Lifestyle
Those who are familiar with central Delaware will attest to the fact that Kent County is the true “heart” of the state. Steeped in history and yet committed to well-managed progress, Kent County encompasses the dynamic capital city of Dover where the state’s leaders and planners hang their hats. In fact, the mid-sized town of Dover introduces more sophisticated amenities than its modest population count would indicate. Without a doubt, the presence of the renowned Dover Air Force Base, the influence of educational institutions like Delaware State University and Wesley College, and the economic prowess of major corporations all contribute to the impressive level of refinement.
Dover also serves as an historical center for the county, claiming vintage churches and homes, wonderful museums, and “The Green”—a town square that was plotted in 1717 according to William Penn’s own orders. True to Penn’s vision, this charming centerpiece has remained the focal point of community life in Kent County. Once the site of early fairs and markets, The Green is still a gathering place for political rallies, public events, and special celebrations like Old Dover Days in May. It was here that that the Declaration of Independence was first read to an eager public audience and a portrait of King George III was enthusiastically set to flames.
The close proximity of state parks, ocean and bay beaches, and popular resort towns like Rehoboth Beach ensure Kent County residents of premier recreational opportunities close to home. Within the county’s borders lies the Bombay Hook Wildlife Refuge, a preserve that invites driving, walking, and cycling through acres of natural beauty. Among the 235 species of birds and fowl that enjoy a protected home on the preserve is the largest permanent collection of Canadian geese. The park even provides a special place for kids to dig for hidden pirate treasure, as long as they are willing to re-fill the holes again. More family fun is waiting at Killens Pond Water Park, with its slides, pools, fountains, and interactive water play areas.
Adults may be more interested in exploring the attractions and thrills of the Dover Downs International Speedway, a center for major-league sports events and first-rate entertainment. The NASCAR Winston Cup circuit appears in June and September, Indy racing comes to the track in July, and world-class harness racing runs from May through October. Other incentives include 2,000 slot machines in a spectacular Las Vegas setting, a café dining room, or gourmet coffee shop. Even the small town of Harrington is now home to the Midway Slots & Simulcast for state-of-the-art gaming and entertainment at the Delaware State Fairgrounds.
Although shoppers gravitate toward the department stores and extensive specialty shops of regional centers like Dover Mall, they can also choose to hunt for bargains, antiques, and unique items tucked away in many of the region’s plazas and retail districts. Along U.S. 13 and Delaware 9 is a popular year-round flea market—the largest and most diverse on the entire Eastern Shore —where merchants peddle everything from baseball cards to wicker furniture. When shoppers tire of navigating the sea of merchandise, the nearby Records Pond offers boating, freshwater fishing, and picnicking under bald cypress trees.
Filling leisure hours with relaxation and exercise is easy in Kent County, where four recreational lakes combine with lush parks that feature picnic areas, hiking trails, habitat areas, freshwater fishing ponds, playgrounds, and athletic fields. Tennis courts, golf courses, boat ramps, and miles of nature trails encourage residents to take full advantage of the mild climate and variety of recreational facilities. Camping, hunting, fishing, crabbing, clamming, shellfishing or simply observing nature are all pastimes that you can enjoy in and around Kent County.
Throughout Kent County’s cities, towns, and villages is an intermingling of attractive new subdivisions and custom homes in a friendly and warm atmosphere. Those who desire the serenity of a rural enclave will find intimate residential retreats like Viola and Magnolia. Here, the unspoiled qualities and open space of country living harmonize with a true community spirit. Nestled along the beautiful marshes of the Delaware Bay are quaint working towns like Liepsic, Little Creek, and Bowers Beach. Even unincorporated areas like Felton are beginning to experience full-scale housing developments where ranches and two-story models mix with executive homes in a tranquil, rural setting. Whether you choose a turn-of-the-century Victorian in the heart of town or a custom estate with fairway views, your lifestyle in Kent County promises to grow richer and more endearing with each passing year.
Clayton, Smyrna
Clayton Offices
302-653-8419
http://clayton.delaware.gov
Smyrna Offices
302-653-9231
https://smyrna.delaware.gov
Chamber of Commerce
302-678-0892
www.cdcc.net
Located in the upper quadrant of the Delmarva Peninsula, the Smyrna/Clayton area is ideally situated in Delaware about an hour and a half from the major metropolitan centers of Philadelphia and Baltimore. From its roots as a sleepy hamlet, Smyrna has grown into a desirable community of approximately 6,000 residents. Nearby Clayton is home to about 2,400 residents, although the area is experiencing an influx of new development. Single family homes along tree-lined streets, stunning fairway views, waterfront properties, and luxurious townhouses are just a few of the residential possibilities.
Ranking first in Delaware and 35th nationally for towns between 5,000 and 15,000 residents, Smyrna is justifiably proud of its quality of life and educational system. Now that transportation improvements link the area to major employment centers, both older neighborhoods and new developments are gaining in popularity. Not far from home is the Blackbird State Forest with its hiking trails, picnic pavilions, and fishing ponds.
Dover
Municipal Offices
302-736-7008
https://www.cityofdover.com
Chamber of Commerce
302-678-0892
www.cdcc.net
Home to a modest population of 30,370, Dover maintains a high profile among Delaware communities by serving as the state capital and the Kent County seat. Along with a friendly, small-town atmosphere, the area combines a government complex with historic areas, Dover Air Force Base, riverside recreation areas, and NASCAR races. The Green is the focal point of Dover’s historic district, which includes the site where the U.S. Constitution was first ratified, the Old Statehouse, and several of Delaware’s finest museums. The Green also provides a charming backdrop for festivals and community celebrations throughout the year.
In addition to a thriving retail sector, Dover offers a wonderful selection of beautiful older homes and newer construction. Without a doubt, State Street with its elegant Victorians ranks among Delaware’s most stunning thoroughfares. Homes within the heart of town range from magnificent to modest, although attractive housing options are also available beyond the city limits. Unusual for Kent County, the development of Fox Hall West just outside of Dover offers the luxury of semi-wooded lots, while executive developments like Pennwood draw local professionals to their custom five-bedroom and three-car garage homes.
Harrington
Municipal Offices
302-398-3530
www.cityofharrington.us
Chamber of Commerce
302-422-3344
www.milfordchamber.com
The small farming community nestled in southwestern Kent County is home to only 2,350 residents, yet Harrington accommodates thousands of visitors from across the state when it hosts the annual Delaware State Fair. Historically significant as one of Delaware’s original railroad towns, the fair brings the sleepy town to life with livestock and farm equipment displays, amusement rides, wonderful food booths, and live entertainment. During the remainder of the year, the Delaware State Fairgrounds pulsates with live harness racing in the spring and fall, year-round simulcast racing, and a slots casino.
Even the local museums reflect the local blend of railroad history and agriculture, from local artifacts and an old caboose to the Messick Agricultural Museum with the first John Deer tractor and other antiques. Home choices in the heart of town and the Harrington area range from farm houses and modest bungalows to country estates and beautiful residential developments in a tranquil, rural setting.
Milford
Municipal Offices
302-422-6616
www.cityofmilford.com
Chamber of Commerce
302-422-3344
www.milfordchamber.com
One of the few cities in Delaware that straddles two counties, Milford is home to approximately 6,200 as it flows between Kent and Sussex Counties. Residents have the transportation advantages of two major north/south arteries, since Milton is situated at the intersection of U.S. 113 and Delaware 1. Well-kept older homes, mature shade trees, and a quaint downtown district blend in this historic town against the backdrop of the scenic Mispillion River. In fact, the Mispillion Riverwalk greenway serves as a center of community life, hosting outdoor activities and environmental programs.
Founded as a shipbuilding town, Milford is now the celebrated host of the World Championship Weakfish Tournament on Delaware Bay. Nearby attractions include Abbott’s Mill Nature Center and Abbott’s Pond, where Delaware Nature Society provides hiking trails, canoeing opportunities, and nature programs. The close proximity of Slaughter Beach expands recreational opportunities as well as real estate options. Charming cottages, historic homes, beach bungalows, and handsome rural communities are all residential possibilities in the Milford area.
