Lewes, Del. – Today, U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), a member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, visited the future site of Chapel Branch Apartments in Lewes. During the visit, she received a briefing on the project and toured the construction.
“Delaware has a housing shortage at every income level, and we are in need of more success stories like Chapel Branch in the First State,” said Senator Blunt Rochester, a member of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee. “Chapel Branch will increase our housing options in our state while providing safe homes for many Delawareans. It is time for us to take on the housing crisis and ensure everyone across our state and nation has a safe and affordable place to call home. That’s why I introduced the first comprehensive zoning reform bill in over 100 years to completely reimagine housing regulations fit for the 21st century. I look forward to working with my partners in Delaware and in Washington help get this bill across the finish line.”
Chapel Branch is the first affordable housing development funded with state and federal funds in Lewes since 2003, having received $1 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. The development will include 42 affordable and market rate units, a community service center, and other wrap-around services that will be free to residents.
In April, Blunt Rochester introduced the bipartisan and bicameral Housing Supply Frameworks Act, the first piece of legislation she introduced as a Senator. The bill would provide resources to help communities rehaul their zoning and land use regulations. Blunt Rochester has been a leading voice in highlighting the need to address the affordable housing crisis across our state and nation. She has also been vocal about how President Trump’s reckless tariffs and trade wars have been raising housing costs for hardworking Americans.
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Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester represents Delaware in the United States Senate where she serves on the Committees on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; Commerce, Science, and Transportation; Environment and Public Works; and Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions.