Comprehensive Planning is an integral part of the municipal planning process. A Comprehensive Plan is used as a guide for future development and a framework for the decisions that the City's Boards and Commissions and Council make. The first step of any land development project is to consider the proposal as it relates to the Comprehensive Plan to determine its feasibility for the Delaware Community. 

The Delaware Together Comprehensive Plan was developed through a process that integrated input from community members and key stakeholders with technical analysis. Participants offered thousands of ideas and suggestions that helped to shape the plan’s recommended actions. This process began in early 2018 and culminated with City Council approval in Spring 2021.

Focus Areas

Within the current comprehensive plan, the City is divided into six Focus Areas. These areas are locations where significant change can reasonably be expected to occur within the next ten years. One of the recommendations of Delaware Together is for the completion of Area Plans for the Southwest and Southeast Focus Areas. The Southwest Focus Area Plan was completed in 2023 and is awaiting approval from City Council. Drafting of the Southeast Area Plan will commence in the Spring of 2024.