MILFORD, Del. — A plan to erect a new building in Milford’s downtown is stirring debate among locals. Applicants Zack and Marissa King aim to transform a vacant lot at 111-115 North Walnut Street into a multi-use complex. The proposed structure would rise four stories, housing six storefronts, 16 residential units, and possibly a rooftop eatery or basement shop, with goals of creating affordable homes for workers and spurring local business growth.
To proceed, the Kings seek city approval to exceed the 35-foot height limit by 17 feet, shrink the building’s width to 48.2 feet from the required 50, and boost density from 16 units per acre to 178.
A sign at the site details these variance requests. Residents near the historic district argue the building’s scale and style don’t match the area’s traditional aesthetic. Many also worry about overcrowding from the high-density apartments and insufficient parking for new shops and diners, which could strain the small downtown.
The Milford Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on May 8 at 10 a.m. to weigh the proposal. The Kings maintain the project aligns with Milford’s need for economic expansion and housing. As the date nears, the community grapples with balancing progress against preserving its historic identity.
