Community Newsletter

AI Data Center on Ogletown Road: (across from CarMax): This proposal would turn a business park into a nearly 1-million-square-foot data center. The developer has paused the project in response to community pushback, but they could still move forward. The Delaware Sierra Club is the best source of updates on this issue.

Aston Pointe: A large housing development across the state line in Maryland could create an influx of traffic on Rte. 273. Local residents involved in Stop Aston Pointe are campaigning to halt the last phase of the project.

Valley Road: Construction is underway on 143 homes. The development adds to the 56 homes recently built across the street at Valley Grove. Traffic has become an increasing concern on Valley Road, and questions remain about the impact on the Cockeysville aquifer, which runs underground from Lantana Square to Yorklyn.

Proposed Car Wash: An Illinois company has proposed a large car wash at the site of the old Exxon Station and Richardson’s. The County’s Land Use Department deemed the initial plan unacceptable, but they will likely try again. The project could exacerbate traffic backups and safety issues at the intersection of Lancaster Pike and Yorklyn Road. The car wash is also in the protected aquifer recharge area and poses contamination risks. It will have to go through multiple public committees and hearings if it proceeds.

Office Building on Stoney Batter Road: A developer has applied to clear 5 acres of woods for a 40,000-square-foot office/retail building and parking lot, across Weatherhill and North Pointe Park. So far, 1,500 people have signed a petition to oppose the project and save the woods. The application is still under review, and approval is not guaranteed. Sign the petition here.

McDonald's at Paper Mill and Limestone Road: The proposed 24-hour drive-through at the site of the old Harmony Schoolhouse has stalled. Community members opposed the project given concerns about the busy intersection, and the neighboring preschool, playground, and residential areas. The building plan also didn’t fit on the property. The application isn’t officially withdrawn, but it hasn’t moved forward since last year.

Cell Tower: Yorklyn has weak cell reception. Last year, Verizon applied to construct a tower at the historic Garrett House property, and the County’s Historic Review Board rejected it. In response, the Yorklyn Community Association convened a meeting with Verizon, elected officials, and DNREC to identify alternative locations. DNREC is now working with a company to site it on state property, tucked further up the hill where it can be shorter and less visible.

Yorklyn Road: In response to local advocacy, the state has acquired nearly 30 acres of the former NVF site as open space, which will be added to Auburn Valley State Park. Community members also convinced the state to reject the 6-story luxury condo building proposed near the Red Clay Creek, on top of the Cockeysville aquifer. Now attention has turned to three remaining developments, which pose a major threat to the aquifer: a projected recharge deficit of 3.4 million gallons of water per year. DNREC is allowing construction to proceed. The community is pursuing legal action and other possible solutions.