Phase II: Northwest Quadrant

This phase is the centerpiece of the phasing strategy. If the Phase I development is successfully implemented to improve circulation and improve the image of the area as a solid investment environment, this phase can result in the successful development of a 23-acre light industrial and manufacturing center in the northwest quadrant of the WIP.

This area includes about 11 acres of cleared land (Blocks 11, 14, and 32) that imply relatively low relocation costs, paired with more difficult, highly fragmented areas within Blocks 10, 15, 31, and 30. This phase, when completed in addition to the Phase I areas, will contribute to over 60 percent buildout of the WIP's development capacity, and will achieve the goal of improving value, appearance, and marketability for much of the WIP, catalyzing a challenging Phase III project and infill of remaining parcels.

Development Opportunities and Concepts

This phase brings a good mix of scale and cleared acreage, making it a highly marketable area . the one portion of the park presenting major master development potential. This has been confirmed by comments from major developers touring the WIP who have commented on possibilities of this area.

The phase includes a mix of relatively straight forward and more difficult parcels, and will involve the relocation of a union forklift training operation that is presently utilizing Block 11 as a parking lot, as well as the need to deal with salvage operations and oil wells in the Phase IIA area. Possible liquefaction problems on southern and western portions make this a good location for preliminary soil borings to determine the specific soil content.

With the vacation of F Street and Banning Boulevard throughout the Phase II area and the vacation of Quay Avenue above G Street and Lecouvreur Avenue between E Street and F Street, this area is a prime candidate for the consolidation of three superblocks that will offer block sizes of approximately 7, 10, and 11 acres. These superblocks could be developed as one master planned industrial complex, or as two or three separate smaller development opportunities. In addition, there is the opportunity to hold out the approximately 10 acres north of G Street for infill development. If Juanita's Foods decides not to expand onto Block 16, this block could be consolidated with Blocks 15, 30, and 31 to create an approximately 15-acre rectangular superblock.

Phase II Infrastructure Upgrade Strategy

Phase II is programmed for the numerous improvements estimated to cost approximately $1.3 million ($1.13 per SF with a land area of 25.9 acres). Table 8 details the infrastructure improvements and associated costs for this phase. Improvements recommended for City CIP inclusion (approximately $985,000) are associated with major intersection projects. Deducting these costs, local improvements are estimated to require an investment of $301,000, or $0.27/SF. This relatively low cost burden should facilitate cost effective development if other costs related to soils conditions and relocations can be controlled.

Source: Wilmington Industrial Park Economic Adjustment Strategy, Final Report, February 12, 2003, pgs. 95,97