Greater Wilmington Development Council (Del.)

The Greater Wilmington Development Council (GWDC) was founded in 1960 as a private, non-profit, public interest organization. With support from the business community, particularly the Du Pont Company and du Pont family, GWDC proposed and implemented solutions to Wilmington's economic, social, educational, and governmental problems.

The GWDC's initial focus was on economic development, housing, and transportation. During the 1960s they were one of the important forces pushing for urban renewal in downtown Wilmington. During this period they also presented numerous plans to reorganize city government in order to eliminate the patronage system.

During the late 1970s and early 1980s the GWDC sponsored a major education project in the aftermath of the September 1978 court decision that ordered a sweeping desegragation plan to be put in place in New Castle County.

The GWDC was disbanded in 1985. During its twenty-five year history it attempted to involve the business community in civic affairs and municipal reform.

From the description of Records, 1960-1986. (Hagley Museum & Library). WorldCat record id: 122459298