Fenwick Island: New Nature Preserve, Address Parking, and Pedestrian Concerns

April 30, 2025
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Fenwick Island is undergoing exciting changes, with a new nature preserve on the way, plans to improve pedestrian safety, and continued efforts to solve local parking challenges.

New Nature Preserve in the Heart of Fenwick

A generous land donation will soon bring a peaceful slice of nature to Fenwick Island. 

The Faucett Okie Nature Preserve, named in honor of the family who gifted the land, will be located across from Town Hall at Coastal Highway and Bayard Street.

Highlights of the project:

  • The two lots, once privately owned, will be cleaned and repurposed for public use
  • Landscaping work includes debris removal, bamboo trimming, and the creation of walking paths
  • A rain garden is expected to be installed by Memorial Day
  • Longtime landowner Austin "Pete" Okie, age 95, has a family legacy of land conservation in Sussex County

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The preserve is set to become a peaceful spot for locals and visitors alike, with a formal dedication planned for the fall.

Upcoming Meeting on Pedestrian Improvements

Residents will have a chance to weigh in on a proposed pedestrian improvement project during a public meeting scheduled for Tuesday, May 13th. 

Held at Town Hall, the workshop will outline plans to install new pedestrian facilities along Coastal Highway, from Lighthouse Road to James Street.

The meeting will:

  • Present design alternatives
  • Allow public comments and feedback
  • Include DelDOT and town officials to answer questions

Comments will be accepted through June 30th.

Ongoing Debate Over Parking Solutions

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Parking remains a concern in Fenwick Island, especially for local business employees during the busy summer season. 

Town officials have been exploring solutions like:

  • Discounted parking passes for employees from 4 to 10 p.m.
  • Identifying underutilized streets that could provide new parking spots
  • Encouraging businesses to share existing parking lots

While ideas are being considered, challenges such as resident concerns, walking distances, and wear on town streets complicate the discussion. 

The Business Concerns Committee will revisit the issue at a future date.

Keep up with Fenwick Island's evolving projects and community efforts by following our blog for updates, meeting info, and ways to get involved!

Sources: Coastal Point, Coastal Point, Coastal Point