An economic development consultant says Wilmington must shed perceptions of rampant crime and poor public schools if it wants to attract more residents and businesses.
The News Journal reports that Bill Fredrick of New Jersey-based Wadley Donovan GrowthTech made the comments during a meeting Wednesday.
The presentation offered the first glimpse of Mayor Dennis Williams' comprehensive growth plan for the city.
The consultant said the city's strengths include transportation and telecommunications, and its role as a major employment center in Delaware.
But Fredrick says city officials must work harder at helping people feel good about living and working in Wilmington. He says the city's reputation as a dangerous place is scaring people and businesses away from the downtown area.
