DelDOT stresses safety gains, EV charging rollout and tight revenue outlook
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Summary
DelDOT briefed the Joint Finance Committee on safety gains in 2025, progress on NEVI EV chargers and its FY27 operating/capital plan; the department proposed technology investments (real‑time insurance checks, e‑ticketing) and noted declining motor‑fuel tax revenue amid debates over long‑term financing.
Secretary Shante Hastings and DelDOT staff presented a broad departmental orientation that combined safety data, staffing updates and the FY27 revenue and spending plan.
Hastings highlighted 2025 traffic safety results — 117 fatalities for the calendar year, down from 2024 — and cited successes from median barrier installations and targeted corridor projects. She also noted an increase in hit‑and‑run crashes and an early‑year uptick in roadway departure and intersection crashes in 2026, urging continued emphasis on the agency’s updated Strategic Highway Safety Plan and the 'safe system' approach.
On revenues and capital, DelDOT outlined a $1.13 billion multi‑source funding picture that blends federal grants, toll receipts, motor‑fuel tax and DMV fees. The presentation showed a projected long‑term decline in motor‑fuel tax receipts because of rising fuel efficiency and EV adoption; the agency has launched a statewide Sustainable Transportation Funding Task Force to evaluate funding mechanisms over a 20‑year horizon.
DelDOT proposed several technology and service investments in the governor’s recommended operating request: $336,000 for real‑time insurance verification at DMV to speed transactions and reduce fraud; $400,000 for e‑ticketing and connected equipment that would feed active work‑zone information to mapping platforms; and $500,000 for ongoing IT support and cybersecurity. Secretary Hastings described progress on NEVI EV charging installations (three of six alternative‑fuel corridor sites pending, targeted completion by June 2027) and reported near‑term plans to reopen the Wilmington DMV to the public after security upgrades following a December homicide at that location.
Committee members pressed DelDOT on vacancy reductions, how change orders are verified on construction projects, and the department’s approach to paratransit on‑time performance. The secretary said DelDOT’s vacancy rate improved to about 10% and described expanded internship and recruitment programs, including Project SEARCH and a DelDOT internship initiative that has fed full‑time hires.
DelDOT said FY27 operating requests total approximately $477.3 million, with debt service, DTC subsidy and a $10 million storm/emergency reserve among the largest line items. The agency noted that federal reauthorization uncertainty and NEVI implementation timelines informed a conservative capital forecast.
Hastings closed by noting recent project openings and awards, including a North Millsboro bypass and a national transportation award for a Route 299 project, and by outlining community outreach projects and employee volunteerism.