Donovan Smith Manufactured Home Community

Donovan Smith Manufactured Home Community, located at 34168 Central Ave, Lewes, DE 19958, USA, is a manufactured home park situated in the appealing coastal town of Lewes, Delaware. While its name may appear in searches for "RV Parks Near Me," it is primarily a residential community intended for manufactured homes rather than short-term RV parking. This introduction aims to provide an objective overview of the community, drawing upon publicly available information and resident feedback to paint a comprehensive picture of its environment, services, and current circumstances.

The geographic location of Donovan Smith Manufactured Home Community is undoubtedly one of its most attractive features. Situated in Lewes, Delaware, residents have access to a picturesque coastal town known for its historic charm, beautiful beaches, and vibrant community. The community is approximately a 45-minute drive from popular destinations such as Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and Ocean City, Maryland, offering ample opportunities for beach activities, dining, and entertainment. Proximity to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry also provides convenient access to New Jersey, enhancing regional connectivity. Within Lewes, residents can find local hospitals, doctors, schools, and various amenities, contributing to the convenience of daily life. The community's official description notes it offers "access to nature and many local amenities" and a "picturesque surroundings of this popular vacation spot," suitable for "all ages."

However, it is crucial to address significant concerns raised by residents and documented by official bodies regarding the environmental and infrastructural conditions within the park. Multiple reviews highlight long-standing issues, particularly concerning the sewer system. One resident stated, "We do not and have not had proper sewage for at least 15 years. He is in trouble for polluting Delaware at all of his parks. We have a notice of Violation from DNREC this summer. DO NOT even look at moving here." Official reports from the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) corroborate these concerns, detailing notices of violation issued to the park owner for improper wastewater discharge and failing septic systems. Issues such as wastewater surfacing and ponding on the grounds, posing public health hazards, have been cited. These issues have led to efforts to connect the community to the Lewes Board of Public Works (BPW) sewer system, a project that has faced delays but is reportedly moving forward. Recent reports indicate that the Lewes City Council approved annexation of the park, a crucial step towards facilitating the connection to the municipal sewer and water systems. Additionally, plans to rebuild roads within the park and replace speed bumps with speed humps have been reported, addressing another long-standing complaint from residents about the condition of the infrastructure.

Historically, services at Donovan Smith Manufactured Home Community included weekly trash pickup, water, and sewer within the monthly lot rent. However, the reliability and adequacy of these services, particularly water and sewer, have been a significant point of contention for residents. The ongoing issues with the septic system have necessitated interventions from state and local authorities to ensure public health and environmental compliance.

The community is currently undergoing a period of significant transition and planned improvements. The annexation by the City of Lewes is a critical development, as it clears the way for the community to be connected to the Lewes BPW's water and sewer system. This project aims to resolve the long-standing wastewater issues that have plagued the community. Furthermore, there are discussions and plans for capital improvements, including the rebuilding of roads and upgrading of community infrastructure. It is essential for prospective residents to inquire about the current status of these projects and the timelines for their completion, as these improvements are central to the future living experience within the park.

Regarding community features, the park offers 127 lots, and its official website promotes its accessibility to local amenities and natural surroundings. However, the reviews suggest that the actual living experience has been impacted by the aforementioned infrastructural problems and management concerns. One reviewer described the owner as a "slum lord" and mentioned "harassment," also advising against bringing children due to concerns about units being used as "work camp housing with 6 or more adult males living in them," potentially not in compliance with lease agreements that state "single family homes only." This feedback points to concerns about the overall management and adherence to community regulations, which directly impact the quality of life for residents. The contact numbers for the community are (302) 629-6315 and +1 302-629-6315.

Given the significant challenges and ongoing corrective actions, any promotional information for Donovan Smith Manufactured Home Community should be viewed in the context of the efforts being made to address these issues. While the community's location in Lewes is a strong asset, the immediate focus for both current and prospective residents is likely on the resolution of the sewer and water problems, as well as the promised infrastructure upgrades. The state has been involved in providing funding mechanisms, such as state-funded loan mechanisms, to facilitate the connection to public sewer systems, indicating a strong push to rectify the environmental concerns.

Prospective buyers or renters should directly contact the management for the most up-to-date information on the progress of these infrastructure projects, any temporary measures in place, and the implications for lot rent or home prices. It is also advisable to review public records regarding the DNREC violations and the ongoing annexation and sewer connection processes to gain a complete understanding of the community's current state and future trajectory. While the community is located in a desirable area, the concerns raised by residents suggest that a thorough investigation is warranted before making any decisions about moving into Donovan Smith Manufactured Home Community.

Donovan Smith Manufactured Home Community

34168 Central Ave, Lewes, DE 19958, USA