Delaware’s congressional delegation gathered in Harrington on Monday to celebrate two major federal investments aimed at bolstering the region’s infrastructure and economic future.
U.S. Senators Lisa Blunt Rochester and Chris Coons, along with U.S. Representative Sarah McBride (all D-Del.), joined state and local leaders to break ground on a $3.4 million federal grant secured through the Congressionally Directed Spending process. The funding will support key upgrades at Harrington’s Industrial Park, including new roadwork and expanded sewer and water infrastructure. Officials said the improvements are expected to attract new businesses, create up to 750 jobs, and fuel long-term growth in Kent County.
Later in the day, the delegation visited Delmarva Central Railroad (DCR) to spotlight a separate $18.8 million award from the Federal Railroad Administration’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) program. The grant will fund upgrades along more than 120 miles of DCR’s main line stretching from Porter, Delaware, to Lecato, Virginia. Plans include eliminating nearly eight miles of slow orders, enhancing crossings, rehabilitating tracks, and making major bridge repairs to bring the system up to Class II standards.
Senator Blunt Rochester called the day a milestone for Harrington’s future. “From the industrial park to the railroad, these investments will have an impact on Harrington for generations,” she said. “I look forward to continuing to do all I can to fight for this community, county, and state in the Senate.”
Senator Coons emphasized the projects’ potential to spark lasting change. “These timely federal grants will help lay the tracks for well-paying jobs and provide a pathway to sustainable growth by improving the industrial park and upgrading the railroad to ensure safety, efficiency, and connectivity,” he said.
Representative McBride highlighted the broader economic implications. “These two investments are more than just infrastructure upgrades — they’re about building a stronger economic future for Harrington and for Delaware,” she said.
Local leaders hailed the grants as transformative, positioning Harrington as both a jobs hub and a critical link in the region’s transportation network.
