In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Planning Director Donna Benton about the Capital Improvements Program (CIP) for 2026 to 2031. Benton explains the process of creating the CIP, which begins in the summer with department heads submitting requests for new projects or changes to existing ones. The program covers various categories including general government, public safety, community services, education, and utilities. Projects must meet specific criteria, such as having an estimated cost of $25,000 or more and a useful life of at least three years. Benton highlights several new and ongoing projects, including the Littleworth Road Business Park, Durham Road Congestion Mitigation, citywide drainage improvements, and the Broadway neighborhood revitalization. She emphasizes the importance of the CIP in maintaining infrastructure, demonstrating community pride, and attracting investment. The rollout of the new CIP is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 16, in Room 305 at the McConnell Center, beginning at 7 p.m. Subsequent reviews by the Planning Board and City Council will follow in the weeks ahead.
In This Week in Dover History, we learn about Arthur Whittemore, a prominent Dover citizen who passed away on Oct. 14, 1931. Whittemore served as mayor and state legislator and was involved in various community initiatives, including securing funding for the Dover Public Library.
