During the Dover Regular Council Meeting on January 13, 2025, city officials discussed a significant rezoning request aimed at expanding the PAM facility, a healthcare provider in the community. The proposal seeks to transition the facility's zoning from Commercial Professional Office (CPO) to Institutional Office (IO), which would allow for the addition of approximately 10 beds to the facility, addressing a pressing need for healthcare services in the area.

The expansion is projected to create around 100 new jobs, a crucial development for Dover's economy, which has been seeking to bolster employment opportunities. City officials emphasized that the growth aligns with the comprehensive plan's goals to enhance Dover's role as a center for government, education, and healthcare. The plan encourages well-designed facilities that integrate into the community, and the proposed changes are seen as compliant with this vision.

Concerns regarding increased traffic due to the expansion were raised during the meeting. However, officials reassured residents that traffic improvements are already in the works, including the installation of a traffic signal at the entrance to Emerald Point, which is currently under the jurisdiction of the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT). This signal is expected to help manage the anticipated increase in traffic flow resulting from the facility's expansion.

The council members acknowledged the balance needed between expanding healthcare services and managing traffic concerns. The discussion highlighted the community's urgent need for enhanced healthcare access while also addressing infrastructure challenges. The council is expected to vote on the rezoning request in the coming weeks, with the outcome poised to significantly impact both local healthcare availability and job creation in Dover.