Residents Revitalizing West Rehoboth Community - WMDT 47 News - Delmarva's Choice

REHOBOTH, Del. - If you've ever driven to Rehoboth Beach, chances are you've passed by West Rehoboth.

But the folks living and working there don't want to be passed over anymore.

"We're not that city that you come and visit," said Brenda Milbourne of West Side New Beginnings. "We are the town the had been forgotten and is hidden."

"People are starting to look at West Rehoboth now as not a crime-ridden neighborhood, but as a positive bright future community," said Kevin McKinney, Coalition for West Rehoboth project manager.

Coalition for West Rehoboth shows WMDT their plans to rebuild this historically African-American community. Three years in the making, this revitalization began with the installation of five cameras near Norwood Street.

"We have reduced crime and that stigma by 70 percent," said McKinney.

Through the West Rehoboth Community Land Trust and donations, they've acquired buildings, like the old "Jane and Georgie" store building. They're helping folks like the Yates family.

"Certain residents don't even have water, ruining water at this time," said McKinney. "Their roofs are leaking because they're living on substandard mobile homes."

"It's not like it used to be 20 years ago," said William Yates, a resident of West Rehoboth. "Things have changed. People have changed. People are willing to help more around here."

McKinley says several more homes, like the old "Jane and Georgie" store, which is now located just off of Norwood Street will house families soon.

Other plans for the area include a playground and a overall beautification program.