Chestnut run science & innovation park (crisp) - MRA Group

Formerly a du Pont research campus located in Wilmington, Delaware, the CRISP Campus aims to continue the science and research endeavors of the past with a vision of the future. This 160± Acres parcel is the future home of Merck Wilmington Biotech company which will “comprise laboratory, manufacturing and warehouse capabilities to enable the launch and commercial production of next-generation biologics and therapies including potent antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), reinforcing Merck’s focus on expanding and diversifying its pipeline.”

In addition to Merck’s presence on the property, Solenis’s new 100,000-square-foot research and development building (former Building 713) will continue “supplying innovative specialty chemicals and services for process, functional and water treatment applications to consumer and industrial markets.”

As well, Prelude Therapeutics built a new lab and office space in the 81,000-square-feet former Building 709 in 2022. A leading research company in cancer treatments was the first long-term leased signed to the campus.

The redevelopment of Chestnut Run was the goal of the MRA Group who contracted with CDA Engineering to procure approvals for the allocation and reconfiguration of existing approved leasable floor area. With the addition of a new Residence Inn by Marriott, a hotel located along Route 141, CRISP will be the new home of research and development in Delaware.

Code/Ordinance Review

CDA Engineering’s vast experience with Zoning Code is one of the many ways we help developers navigate Land Planning review processes. View New Castle County Zoning Code

  • Site Feasibility Studies

  • Preliminary Sketch Plans

  • Parking Analysis and Design

  • Site Layout and Design

  • Density Calculations

SWM Design

To accommodate vehicular parking and to maximize density for developers, CDA Engineering often utilizes underground SWM systems, like Stormtech Systems as shown in the image above, taken during installation in April 2025 for the new Residence Inn by Marriott located on campus!

storm culvert, storm pipe, swm, stormwater management, railing, grass, rock outlet protection

Utilities Infrastructure

  • New SWM Infrastructure and Facilities (Underground Detention)

  • New Sanitary Sewer Infrastructure

  • New Domestic and Fire Water Services

  • Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Coordination