Is Capitol Green safe?

“Go with care. While Capitol Green is primarily an established residential neighborhood located just south of Delaware's state government complex, it experiences higher rates of violent and property crime than surrounding suburban Kent County. General visitors typically have limited reasons to visit other than accessing nearby river trails, and should prioritize daytime visits while keeping aware of their surroundings.”

Dover Police have periodically focused proactive enforcement and community policing initiatives in Capitol Green following localized reports of weapons and drug offenses.

Capitol Green is a mid-century residential neighborhood in Dover bounded by the St. Jones River and positioned just steps from Legislative Hall. Characterized by modest single-family homes and duplexes, the neighborhood offers direct access to the capitol district alongside distinct economic challenges. It remains an active community with ongoing city revitalization and safety initiatives.

• Residential
• Working-Class
• River-Adjacent
• Historic-Adjacent

Walk score: 58/100 · Bike score: 54/100

There is no local bike-share program, but cyclists can access the St. Jones River Greenway trail system nearby connecting south towards Dover Air Force Base and north to Silver Lake.

Homelessness: Visible homelessness is uncommon within the inner residential blocks, though individuals experiencing homelessness may occasionally be seen along nearby transit corridors and downtown service hubs.

Morning · 5a – 11a

Peaceful and calm as residents depart for work and school buses navigate the streets.

Afternoon · 11a – 5p

Generally quiet with standard residential activity, safe for casual daytime walks.

Evening · 5p – 10p

Foot traffic slows down and vigilance is advised as illumination is variable on side streets.

Late night · 10p – 5a

Safety risks increase notably due to potential localized illicit activity; walking through the area after midnight is discouraged.

DART First State operates local bus service with routes stopping nearby along Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd and S State St, connecting directly to the Dover Transit Center.

Free on-street residential parking is widely available throughout the neighborhood, with no metered zones or parking decks within the residential tract.

• Access the scenic St. Jones River Greenway for a walking or jogging route
• Walk a short distance north to tour Legislative Hall and the First State Heritage Park
• Visit the historic John Bell House and The Green just northwest of the neighborhood

• The House of Coffi · Coffee Shop · 4.8★ (410)
  A cozy, highly regarded cafe offering artisan espresso, teas, and pastries in nearby downtown Dover.
• 33 West Alehouse & Grill · American Restaurant · 4.4★ (490)
  A relaxed nearby pub serving upscale comfort food, craft beer, and seasonal specials.
• La Baguette Bakery & Catering · Bakery · 4.7★ (560)
  An authentic French bakery near the capitol core known for fresh croissants, baguettes, and tarts.