SR 299, SR 1 TO CATHERINE STREET

THE CHALLENGE

The SR 299 corridor in Middletown, Delaware, faced increasing congestion and safety concerns due to rapid population growth and development. The existing undivided two-lane roadway was operating over capacity, especially during peak hours, leading to over 600 reported crashes in a ten-year period. With multiple schools, healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and residential communities located along the route, there was an urgent need to improve traffic flow, safety, and multimodal access. Flat terrain, frequent development changes, and utility relocations further complicated the project. Additionally, the area’s school transportation policies left many students walking or biking to school, increasing the importance of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements.

HOW WE HELPED

As the prime consultant, McCormick Taylor led the final design and construction consultation services for the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT). A comprehensive suite of services were delivered, including 3D modeling to enhance design accuracy, roadway and intersection improvements, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, lighting and signal upgrades, and environmental compliance planning. Stormwater challenges were addressed through the use of infiltration trenches and bioretention facilities, which supported existing hydrology and reduced runoff. McCormick Taylor also developed an online, map-based tour to help the public visualize improvements and facilitated consistent stakeholder engagement through public workshops and regular construction coordination meetings. To streamline the project schedule, the team worked closely with utility companies to coordinate early relocations and implemented custom phasing plans to maintain traffic flow and minimize construction impacts.

RESULTS

The SR 299 corridor now supports improved traffic flow and significantly enhanced safety for all users. Travel times have been reduced for residents, businesses, and freight vehicles, including critical delivery routes and access to local employers like Amazon and Wawa. The addition of six DART bus stops, a shared-use path, and a complete sidewalk network has expanded multimodal access, making it easier and safer for pedestrians and cyclists to navigate the area—especially students traveling to nearby schools. Environmental sustainability also improved, with new stormwater best management practices that protect water quality and reduce downstream erosion. Energy-efficient LED lighting was installed throughout the corridor to increase nighttime visibility and reduce maintenance costs. DelDOT praised McCormick Taylor for its high-quality, timely work and coordination, especially amid challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The project now serves as a model for how thoughtful design and planning can transform a vital community corridor.

AWARDS

2024 Project of the Year  (>$20M), ASHE First State

2024 People’s Choice Award, ASHE First State