Story perspectives

Sussex Council Rejects Costco Due to Community Concerns

1/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 13, 2026, the Sussex County Council unanimously voted against the zoning change for the Atlantic Fields shopping center, including a Costco.
The council cited traffic, environmental concerns, and the lack of mixed-use development, highlighted by Councilwoman Jane Gruenebaum.
The project would have generated over 26,000 daily vehicle trips, raising safety concerns near schools.
Community opposition exceeded 500 comments, while the plan promised 1,750 jobs.

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Story summary

On January 13, 2026, the Sussex County Council unanimously voted against the zoning change for the Atlantic Fields shopping center, including a Costco.
The council cited traffic, environmental concerns, and the lack of mixed-use development, highlighted by Councilwoman Jane Gruenebaum.
The project would have generated over 26,000 daily vehicle trips, raising safety concerns near schools.
Community opposition exceeded 500 comments, while the plan promised 1,750 jobs.