UPDATE: Residents of Kennett Square are urgently calling for local leaders to slow down as significant development plans threaten the borough’s character. In back-to-back strategic planning sessions held on January 12 and 13, 2024, approximately 120 people voiced concerns over rapid changes, including the loss of small businesses and the push for new housing developments.
Kennett Square, known as the “Mushroom Capital of the World,” is facing a crucial turning point. The borough, which spans just 1 square mile and houses about 7,000 residents, is witnessing a wave of commercial and residential transformations that some locals believe are compromising its community feel.
Among the most pressing topics discussed was the proposed development of the former National Vulcanized Fiber (NVF) site. The project, spearheaded by Rockhopper, aims to construct nearly 300 residential units on 22 acres, equating to about 10% of the borough’s total area. Residents worry that this influx could escalate the housing crisis, with many fearing that affordable housing is becoming just a buzzword in the face of rapid development.
“I care about affordability as my driving concern,” stated Luke Zubrod from Square Roots Collective, highlighting the disparity between new housing initiatives and the current affordability crisis gripping the nation.
The discussions were marked by a strong sense of nostalgia, with community members urging leaders to prioritize the borough’s historical roots and cultural heritage. “We have an opportunity to slow down,” said resident Gina Donato, who raised concerns regarding the rapid pace of change. “The borough needs to slow down a lot.”
Local officials, including Mayor Matt Fetick, recognized the importance of community feedback. “My goal is to be as accessible and supportive to our community as possible,” he said. However, he chose not to attend the sessions to encourage open dialogue without influence.
The public outcry stems from a broader concern about the future of Kennett Square, where the last pharmacy closed its doors in 2024 and a prominent local healthcare provider, Genesis, recently filed for bankruptcy. The buzz around Genesis transitioning its uptown property into residential units has added to the anxiety among residents about losing local businesses.
In addition to housing, residents expressed safety concerns regarding the borough’s walkability. Many feel that sidewalks are insufficient, particularly on busy streets where pedestrians must navigate dangerous roadways to access shops and restaurants. “We’re losing our feel of a small community,” Donato lamented.
The strategic planning sessions were notably well-attended, doubling previous participation rates and indicating a growing urgency within the community to engage in these discussions. Kyle Coleman, the borough manager, emphasized the importance of these sessions in shaping future development plans. “Each session is unique, as the goal is for priorities to shift over time,” he noted.
The next steps will involve reviewing the findings at a council meeting, followed by a workshop discussion tentatively scheduled for March 4, with a council vote expected in April. The creation of the strategic plan has cost approximately $10,000, and officials are committed to ensuring community input shapes the borough’s future.
As Kennett Square navigates this pivotal moment, residents remain vigilant about preserving their community’s identity amidst inevitable change. With concerns about housing affordability, community character, and safety, the call to action from local citizens is clear: slow down and listen.
Stay tuned for further developments as this story unfolds.
