Delaware Senate Bill SB76

Delaware 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/4/23
• Engrossed: 5/4/23
• Refer: 4/4/23
• Refer: 5/5/23
• Enrolled: 6/20/23
• Passed: 6/30/23

Caption

An Act To Amend Title 17 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Vacation Of Public Roads By Administrative Action.

Impact

The passage of SB76 would notably alter existing statutes related to public road management in Delaware. The amendments would enable quicker and more efficient administrative procedures for handling road vacations, thereby facilitating improvements and realignments that may be essential for infrastructure development. This regulatory shift could significantly expedite the handling of road upgrades, as DelDOT would not need to undergo public hearings for every minor adjustment, potentially leading to faster implementation of road projects.

Summary

Senate Bill 76 proposes an amendment to Title 17 of the Delaware Code, specifically focusing on the procedures for the vacation of public roads. The core objective of this bill is to grant the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) the authority to vacate segments of public roads or rights of way without the necessity for public notice or formal hearings. The bill specifically addresses scenarios where the road in question has been subject to realignment or improvements that do not result in the road being completely abandoned. By doing so, the bill seeks to streamline the administrative process involved in road management.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB76 appears to be supportive among those who prioritize infrastructure efficiency and quick responses to necessary improvements. Proponents argue that reducing the bureaucratic hurdles for road realignments is essential for keeping pace with modern transportation needs. However, there may be concerns among local communities regarding the lack of public input in the vacation process, which could lead to apprehensions about transparency and community involvement in local infrastructure decisions.

Contention

Opposition to the bill primarily hinges on the implications of reducing public oversight in the road vacation process. Critics may argue that allowing administrative action without public notice could set a precedent for future decisions that diminish local control over transportation issues. This is a point of contention as some stakeholders advocate for community engagement to ensure that local needs and concerns are adequately represented in the decision-making processes. Overall, the debate surrounding SB76 reflects broader discussions about the balance between efficient governance and public accountability.