New Claymont Transportation Center Dedicated

The new Claymont Transportation Center was dedicated today as the Harris B. McDowell, III Transportation Center and full service will begin on Monday, December 4, 2023.

Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski was joined by Delaware Transit Corporation CEO John Sisson, Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, the U.S. congressional delegation and numerous federal, state, and local officials to mark the completion of the new $90 million transportation center.

“The opening of the Harris B. McDowell III Transportation Center is a major milestone in the continued economic redevelopment of Claymont and will serve as an important gateway for residents, businesses, and visitors to Delaware,” said Governor John Carney. “As a proud Claymont native, I couldn’t be more pleased to help celebrate the completion of this project, and I want to thank our team at DelDOT for their hard work.”

In 2016, Delaware’s Congressional Delegation of U.S. Senators Tom Carper and Chris Coons and then-Congressman John Carney helped secure a $10 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the construction of the station.

“The new Claymont rail station is proof of what is possible when local communities work with the state and federal government to bring our infrastructure into the 21st century and support economic development,” said Senators Carper and Coons and Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester. “After the closing of the former Evraz steel mill, Delaware rallied behind the Claymont community to help turn economic adversity into an opportunity for redevelopment and job creation. Today, we are celebrating an important step forward in Claymont’s revitalization through the opening of this modern and accessible train station.”

“This was an incredibly complex project many years in the making, and from the beginning hundreds of people from multiple agencies have been involved in this effort with the singular goal of providing Claymont with a first-class transportation center we can all be proud of,” said Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski.

John Sisson, CEO of the Delaware Transit Corporation added, “Anyone that has utilized the former Claymont Station knows how challenging it was to catch a train. The design of the new transportation center focused on the user experience, making public transit an easy, convenient, and smart choice.”

The new center, boasting over 800 parking spaces including 13 EV charging stations, two ADA-compliant high-level covered platforms with wind screens, benches and USB charging ports, bicycle racks and repair stations, real-time passenger information displays, and vending machines, opens for SEPTA train and DART and SEPTA bus service on Monday, December 4, 2023.

In October 2022, Governor Carney signed legislation sponsored by State Senator Sarah McBride and State Representative Debra Heffernan to formally name the new Claymont Transportation Center in honor of Senator Harris B. McDowell, III, who represented the First Senate District from 1976 until 2021, becoming the longest-serving member in the history of the Delaware General Assembly.

Information on SEPTA service to Claymont and other Delaware locations can be found here. 

 

Winter Weather Awareness Week: Nov. 27 to Dec. 1

SMYRNA, Del. — Governor Carney is proclaiming the week of November 27 to December 1 as “Winter Weather Awareness Week in Delaware.”

The Delaware Emergency Management Agency, Delaware Department of Transportation, National Weather Service, and county emergency agencies are teaming up to share important information to help residents and visitors to prepare and stay safe in the coming months. Learn more at: www.weather.gov/phi/dewinterweek

Winter can bring extreme cold, ice, snow, and high winds—knocking out power and heat and causing hazardous travel conditions, sometimes with deadly results. Last year, winter storms and extreme cold were responsible for 97 deaths in the United States, according to the National Weather Service. This includes the “once in a generation” late-December blizzard that brought 70 m.ph. winds and more than 50 inches of snow to Buffalo, New York, causing at least 47 deaths.

Experts say last year’s mild winter is no indication of what’s to come. Even though 2022-2023 was among the least snowy on record in the Mid-Atlantic, forecasts indicate a moderate to strong El Niño pattern, which could result in a few major winter storms despite a trend toward slightly above average temperatures and precipitation. Preparing now can greatly reduce any potential impacts from severe weather. The Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) is urging everyone to: make a plan, build a home and car emergency kit, and stay informed on the latest conditions. Visit PrepareDE.org for more resources.

“Winter storms can arrive quickly and with little warning. Being prepared ensures the safety and well-being of families throughout the season. We encourage residents to take time to update their emergency kits and make sure their vehicle is ready for hazardous travel conditions,” said Safety and Homeland Security Secretary Nathaniel McQueen, Jr.

Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski added, “DelDOT is preparing for the upcoming winter months, and we encourage everyone to take time to ensure their vehicles are ready for winter weather by replacing wiper blades, checking the condition of tires, and having a car emergency kit. It is also extremely important for drivers to slow down, not crowd snowplows, and avoid travel when conditions are at their worst, if possible.”

 
Each day of Winter Weather Awareness Week, social media will focus on a different topic with tips to be ready for whatever winter brings.

 

KEY MESSAGES

  • Stay informed about current weather, winter storm forecasts, travel advisories, and warnings.
  • Sign up for the Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS) at de.gov/dens to learn about emergency closings or hazardous conditions.
  • Download the FEMA Mobile App and set up local alerts.
  • Dress in layers appropriate for the conditions and learn the signs of hypothermia and frostbite.
  • If possible, avoid travel by car. However, if driving, be prepared for snow and icy conditions that can impact roadways. Check ahead on road conditions with the free DelDOT mobile app.
  • Build and stock a basic emergency kit and vehicle emergency kit. Learn how at PrepareDE.org.
  • Prepare your home and car for extreme cold temperatures, such as weatherproofing your house and winterizing your vehicle by checking or replacing lights, tires, wiper blades, and other items.
  • Bring pets or animals in during winter storms and freezing temperatures and stock pet supplies.
  • Preparedness takes a team: “buddy up” to help those with access and functional needs.

 

STAY INFORMED ON WEATHER

The National Weather Service-Mount Holly (NWS) issues the latest weather conditions and forecasts for Delaware as well as official winter storm watches, warnings, and advisories. NWS also has a Winter Weather Dashboard that shows the short-term forecast for winter weather conditions in the three-state region that includes Delaware. Get to know the following winter weather terms and what they mean:

  • Freezing Rain – Rain that freezes when it hits the ground: covering roads, trees, and power lines.
  • Sleet – Rain that turns to ice before reaching the ground.
  • Hypothermia – Illness caused when body temperature drops below what’s needed to be healthy.
  • Frostbite – A medical condition when skin or body tissue is damaged from freezing.
  • Frost/Freeze Warning – Below freezing temperatures are expected.
  • Winter Weather Advisory – Cold, ice, and snow are expected.
  • Winter Storm Watch – Severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible in the next day or two.
  • Winter Warning – Issued when snow or sleet is expected in the next few hours or the next day.
  • Blizzard Warning – Heavy snow and strong winds will produce a blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts, and life-threatening wind chill.

 

ROAD AND TRAVEL SAFETY

While Delaware did not experience any significant snow or ice impacts this past winter, DelDOT reminds motorists to slow down and adapt their driving to the road conditions, give plows plenty of space on the roads, and take the time to remove snow and ice from their vehicles before traveling. The free DelDOT mobile app provides news, updates, and access to more than 100 cameras to view road conditions before traveling.
 

DRIVING RESTRICTIONS

If there is a declared State of Emergency (SOE) due to weather, officials can issue driving restrictions statewide or in one or more counties under Delaware Code.

There are three levels of restrictions:

  • Level 1 Driving Warning: Motorists are to “exercise extra caution in the operation of their motor vehicle” and encouraged “not to operate a motor vehicle… unless there is a significant safety, health, or business reason to do so.”
  • Level 2 Driving Restriction: Travel on Delaware roads is restricted to “essential personnel” such as public or private snow removal operators and those “necessary to maintain the core functions of a government body or entity, and to maintain the health and safety of the people in Delaware including health-care services, and food and fuel deliveries during a state of emergency, regardless of whether they are employed by a public or private entity.”
  • Level 3 Driving Ban: “No person shall operate a motor vehicle on Delaware roadways … except those persons designated as first responders and essential personnel, including public utilities… and operators of snow removal equipment employed or contracted by a public or private entity.”

 

OTHER WINTER HAZARDS AND RISKS

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: The use of alternative heating sources, such as space heaters and generators, during power outages can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if not used safely.
Home Fires: Increased use of heating sources, holiday decorations, and cooking during the winter season can elevate the risk of home fires.
Isolation and Mental Health: Extended periods of cold and darkness during the winter can lead to feelings of isolation and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), affecting mental health.
Lack of Supplies: Snowstorms and severe weather can result in shortages of essential supplies, making it challenging to access food, water, and medical necessities.
Snow Removal Injuries: Clearing snow and ice from driveways and walkways can lead to physical injuries, such as back strain or heart attacks, especially for those not accustomed to strenuous activity.

 
National Weather Service Links:

DelDOT Links:

DEMA Links:

Resources on Winter Preparedness:

 

E-ZPass Delaware Announces Annual Free Transponder Event

E-ZPass Delaware’s Black Friday free transponder event returns Friday, November 24, 2023, and continues through Sunday, December 31, 2023. Anyone who opens a new individual account during this time will get a free transponder.

To open an account simply visit ezpassde.com and click on “sign up” or visit one of the E-ZPass locations below:

E-ZPass Service Center:
22-24 West Loockerman Street
Dover, DE 19904
Walk-in service is Monday to Friday from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm and Saturday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Toll Plazas:
Dover Toll Plaza
Route 1
200 Plaza Drive
Dover, Delaware 19901

Biddles Corner Toll Plaza
Route 1
2111 Dupont Highway
Middletown, DE 19709

Newark Toll Plaza
I-95 Toll Plaza
1200 Whittaker Road @ I-95
Newark, Delaware 19702
Walk-in service is Monday to Sunday 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“This is one of our favorite events,” shared the Director of the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles Amy Anthony. “We can help save our customers some money while making their commute more convenient. I do ask all motorists, whether you are paying by cash or by transponder to please obey the posted speed limits at all toll plazas so we can keep everyone safe.”

Currently, there are 627,003 active E-ZPass transponders in Delaware. Collectively, Newark, Biddles Corner, and Dover Toll Plazas process on average 138,606 E-ZPass transactions daily. For more visit ezpassde.com or call 888-EZPassDE (888-397-2773).

DelDOT Announces New DMV Director

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is proud to announce its new director, Amy Anthony.

Director Anthony began her tenure at the DMV in 2002 as a Motor Vehicle Specialist on the front line in our Vehicle Services section. From there, she transitioned to the front line in our Driver Services section, and shortly after was promoted to Driver License Supervisor. Since then, her various promotions included the Driver License Helpdesk Supervisor, Driver License Program Manager, Chief of Driver Services, and Deputy Director, leading her to her current role as the Director.

“We were very excited when Amy agreed to step into the role of Director of the DMV,” stated Secretary of Transportation Nicole Majeski. “Her positive energy, knowledge, and passion for the Division of which she now oversees are unparalleled. She truly cares about her team and our customers. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for the DMV.”

“Over the years I learned how much I enjoyed serving my community within my various positions but none more humbling than the one I recently accepted as the Director,” said Director Anthony. “I look forward to working with our customers in my new capacity as we explore new ideas and implement changes that will create better experiences both in person and online while continuing to ensure only safe drivers and vehicles are on our roadways.”

Director Anthony officially started her new position on September 1, 2023.

Karen Carson, who previously held the position of Chief of Driver Services, accepted the position of Deputy Director.

The DMV is responsible for serving the residents of the state in four main areas, which include Vehicle Services, Driver Services, Transportation Services, and Toll Operations.

The DMV has four motor vehicle facilities with single locations in Kent & Sussex Counties and two facilities in New Castle County. Additionally, there are three main Toll Operations sites in Dover and Biddle’s Corner for State Route 1 and in Newark for Interstate 95. The Division is responsible for collecting over $550 million in revenues annually for the Transportation Trust Fund. The revenue is generated by the hard work and dedication of 625 full-time and part-time employees with an operating budget of $39.5 million.

The Division monitors and processes over 917,000 registered vehicles, over 712,000 licensed drivers, more than 100,000 ID holders, and more than 72.1 million toll transactions each year. Details at dmv.de.gov.

Registration Begins for DMV’s Low-Digit Tag Lottery

The Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is excited to announce that its annual low-digit tag release begins on Monday, November 6, 2023. Tag-A-Palooza 2023 will feature five days of online giveaways and four in-person events.

Anyone interested in joining the online lottery to win a low-digit tag must register in advance. Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, October 23, 2023, and will continue every day through Thursday, November 2, 2023. You may register only once per driver license or identification card. To register visit dmv.de.gov/taglottery.

During the registration process, you must specify which type of tag you are interested in receiving:

PV – 5 Digit – Numbers Only (under 10,000 lbs. registered vehicle weight)
C – Commercial
PC – Passenger Car (under 10,000 lbs. registered vehicle weight)
T – Trailer (regular trailers – utility, flat-bed, or non-camping trailers)
MC – Motorcycle (above 55cc’s)
RT – Recreational Trailer (camping trailers 5,000 lbs. and over, not regular trailers – see above)
RV – Recreational Vehicle (car or truck under 5,000 lbs. or a motorhome)

If you would like to register to win a five-digit, numbers-only tag and your vehicle is under 10,000 lbs., please select tag type PV.

Monday, November 6, 2023, through Friday, November 10, 2023, DMV will randomly select (530) PV, (55) C, (145) PC, (406) T, (381) MC, (33) RT, and (35) RV winners for each of the five days. Drawings will be held at 9:00 a.m. each day. Registration does not guarantee you will receive a low-digit tag. Registration is required to be entered into the drawing.

All online winners will receive an email confirming they won a low-digit tag. The email will include further instructions. Additionally, daily winning lottery codes will be posted at dmv.de.gov/taglottery and accessible from our social media sites: facebook.com/DMVDelaware and DelawareDMV on Instagram and X. Your lottery code can also be found in your confirmation e-mail.

For those who prefer a chance to win in person, DMV will offer four opportunities during Tag-A-Palooza 2023 starting at 8:00 am until all plates are gone on the below dates:

November 6, 2023
Dover DMV

November 7, 2023
Georgetown DMV

November 9, 2023
Wilmington DMV

November 9, 2023
Delaware City DMV

Inventory for in-person events will be on a first come first serve basis and reserved to 100 PV plates per event. Winners will receive a confirmation letter on the day of the event and instructions on when to return to DMV to pick up their new license plate.

All winners will receive a standard blue and gold license plate upon completing their title work. If their tag number qualifies and they wish to purchase a black and white or stainless-steel tag once they have completed their title work with DMV, they can do so through the Delaware Historic Plate Co. To order a qualifying black & white porcelain or stainless-steel tag, go to dhptags.com.

Both online and in-person winners will receive an email once their tag is ready for pick up at the location you selected.

DISCLAIMER: Only one registration per driver license/identification card is permitted. If more than one entry is received for an individual or entity, all additional requests will be denied. If a participant wins a low-digit tag during an in-person giveaway, their online entry will be voided. The name and driver license/identification card number used to enter the lottery must match the name and driver license/identification card that will be presented to the DMV associate at the time of the transaction. If there is a discrepancy the request will be denied. The winner must apply the new tag to their vehicle no later than February 29, 2024. There will be no extensions. Tags must be applied to a vehicle; DMV will not permit placing the tag on hold. The owner is responsible for all applicable fees. Specialty tags, background tags, stainless steel tags, and porcelain tags have additional fees. DMV reserves the right to modify the tag number as assigned due to unforeseen circumstances.