DE SB191

Establishes the Downtown Development Districts Act to designate limited areas in Delaware cities, towns, and unincorporated areas that qualify for state development incentives and benefits to spur private investment and improve commercial vitality.

Creates application process where municipalities and counties apply for District designation, evaluated by Cabinet Committee on State Planning Issues based on economic need (at least 50% of consideration), quality of District Plan, and local incentives offered; Governor designates 1-3 Districts initially with maximum 15 Districts at any time.

Provides Downtown Development District Grants of up to 20 percent of qualified real property investments exceeding $25,000 minimum threshold for owners and tenants making improvements to buildings in designated Districts.

Reserves 30 percent of state Historic Preservation Tax Credits annually for projects in Downtown Development Districts, with unused credits available statewide by April 1 each year; delegates DSHA authority to establish grant caps, limitations, and additional qualifying criteria.

Districts designated for initial 10-year period renewable for up to two 5-year renewals based on performance; designates Office of State Planning Coordination to administer applications and establish criteria, with DSHA administering the grant program.