Fourth Street Preserve Campaign Nears Final Stretch

March 26, 2025
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The race to save the Fourth Street Preserve in Lewes is in its final phase, with fundraisers ramping up to help meet the ambitious $8 million dollar goal by the September 15th deadline to save this preserve as open space. 

What began as a long-term effort for the Greater Lewes Foundation (GLF) starting over two years ago has now become a sprint to the finish line.

Progress and Support

  • As of March 17th, the campaign has raised $6.4 million.
  • The City of Lewes contributed a total of $1 million, with the final $250,000 installment recently donated to complete their pledged amount.
  • If successful, the 30-acre preserve will be transferred to the city for public use, supporting passive recreation and providing natural habitat space for various native wildlife.

Historical and Environmental Significance

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The Fourth Street Preserve is part of Delaware’s earliest deeded land, dating back to 1670. The property, currently owned by the Rollins family, remains closed to the public. 

To prepare for preservation efforts, professionals have been mapping the land and identifying wetlands. Local landscape architect Rodney Robinson has volunteered to create a concept site plan, which includes a preliminary trail layout and a reforestation strategy.

GLF Executive Director Mike Rawl documents its rich history in his book,” The First Settler of Lewes,” for anyone interested in pursuing more in depth knowledge on this land’s vast history.

Upcoming Fundraisers

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Several local businesses are supporting the campaign through fundraisers this upcoming spring season:

  • April 2nd & 16th – Beer and Benevolence nights at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats, Rehoboth Beach where 10th of all profits will be given back to Fourth Street preserve fundraising efforts.
  • April 5th – The Race for Open Space 5K Run/Walk and one-mile fun walk in Lewes.
  • Every Friday in April – Fourth Street Forest Fridays at Nectar in Lewes, donating 20% of all profits back to the fundraising efforts.
  • Ongoing until March 31st – Whiskey raffle at R&L Liquors in Lewes; a $5 ticket enters participants for a chance to win three bottles of Reservoir Distillery whiskey, valued at an estimated $375!

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Source: Cape Gazette