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Delaware Residents Debate Proposed 251-Home Northwood Subdivision

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  Published in House and Home on Tuesday, January 6th 2026 at 7:14 GMT by Columbus Dispatch

Proposed Northwood Development Sparks Debate: MI Homes Seeks Approval for 251-Home Subdivision in Delaware, Ohio

Delaware, Ohio – A significant residential development proposal is stirring debate within the community of Delaware as MI Homes seeks approval to build a 251-home subdivision called "Northwood" on approximately 270 acres near the intersection of U.S. Route 36 and Cheshire Road. The project, presented to the Delaware Planning Commission in early January 2024, has drawn both enthusiasm for potential economic benefits and concerns regarding its impact on infrastructure, school capacity, and overall community character.

The proposed Northwood development envisions a mix of housing types including single-family homes, townhomes, and potentially some smaller lots designed to appeal to a range of buyers. MI Homes, a national homebuilder known for its customizable designs and focus on family-friendly communities (as detailed on their website: [ https://www.mihomes.com/ ]), is positioning Northwood as a high-quality residential option within the growing Delaware area. The initial plan includes dedicated green space, walking trails, and potential recreational amenities, aiming to create a desirable neighborhood environment.

Addressing Concerns: Infrastructure & School Capacity

A primary point of contention revolves around the development's impact on existing infrastructure. The proposed location is already experiencing traffic congestion, particularly along U.S. Route 36. The Delaware Planning Commission has requested a comprehensive traffic study to assess the project’s effect and identify necessary improvements. MI Homes has committed to contributing financially towards these upgrades, which could include road widening, signal timing adjustments, and potentially new turn lanes (as mentioned in the article). However, residents remain skeptical about whether these measures will adequately mitigate increased traffic volume.

The impact on Delaware City Schools is another significant concern. The district is already grappling with rapid student population growth, necessitating expansions and potential new school construction. Adding approximately 500-600 students (estimated based on average household size and school enrollment rates) from Northwood would further strain resources. Superintendent Christina Henry has stated that the district needs to carefully evaluate the development’s impact and ensure adequate funding for necessary educational facilities. The article highlights a previous agreement between developers and the school district, where developers contribute funds towards school expansion; however, the adequacy of this contribution in light of current growth rates is being questioned by some community members. (For more information on Delaware City Schools' enrollment projections, see [ https://www.delawarecityschools.org/ ]).

Community Character and Density Debate

Beyond infrastructure concerns, residents have expressed anxieties about the development’s potential impact on the character of the area. The proposed density – roughly 0.94 homes per acre – is higher than what some long-time residents consider consistent with the surrounding rural landscape. While Delaware has seen significant growth in recent years, many value the town's semi-rural feel and worry that large-scale developments like Northwood will erode this character.

The article references a previous development proposal for the same land – a 315-home plan by another developer – which was ultimately rejected due to concerns about density and traffic impact. MI Homes’ revised proposal, with its reduced number of homes and commitment to green space, appears to be an attempt to address these past criticisms. However, some residents remain unconvinced that the development will truly integrate seamlessly into the existing community.

Economic Benefits & Developer Perspective

Despite the concerns, MI Homes emphasizes the potential economic benefits of Northwood. The project is expected to generate significant tax revenue for the city and school district, which can be used to fund public services and infrastructure improvements. The construction phase itself will create jobs, and the completed development will contribute to the local economy through increased spending at businesses in Delaware.

MI Homes representatives have stated their commitment to working with the community to address concerns and ensure that Northwood becomes a valuable addition to Delaware. They are actively seeking feedback from residents and engaging in discussions with city officials to refine the plan. The company’s website highlights its dedication to building sustainable communities and incorporating resident input into development processes ([ https://www.mihomes.com/our-approach ]).

Next Steps & Community Engagement

The Delaware Planning Commission has not yet made a recommendation on the Northwood proposal. Further review, including the traffic study and discussions with city staff and school officials, is required. The article indicates that public hearings will continue to be held, providing opportunities for residents to voice their opinions and concerns. The final decision rests with the Delaware City Council, who will consider the Planning Commission’s recommendation along with all available information before making a determination.

The Northwood development represents a microcosm of the challenges facing many rapidly growing communities in Ohio. Balancing economic growth with preserving community character and ensuring adequate infrastructure remains a delicate act. The outcome of this proposal will likely shape future development patterns in Delaware and serve as a case study for how to navigate these complex issues. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the process through the city’s website ([ https://www.delawareohio.net/ ]) and attend public hearings to participate in the discussion.

I hope this article provides a comprehensive summary of the Dispatch.com article, incorporating relevant details and context from linked sources.