NCDOT set to host public hearings on Cape Fear Memorial Bridge

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - State transportation planners have narrowed the future of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge down to two design alternatives, and the public can weigh in before officials move forward.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation is hosting two public hearings to receive feedback on the alternatives for the nearly 60-year-old bridge. Officials said the hearings are a vital step before any action is taken.

Alternative A features a movable span that can rise between 65 and 135 feet over the river.

Alternative B is a fixed bridge sitting at 135 feet, allowing boats to pass underneath without stopping traffic.

At the public hearings, attendees can take a closer look at both alternatives, ask questions and take part in an environmental assessment answering questions on how the changes would directly impact them.

Veronica Scott, public information officer for NCDOT Division 3, said the hearings will include maps, visualizations and posters about the project.

“It’s a great opportunity for you to learn about the project. There will be maps, visualizations, posters, all kinds of information about the project so you can learn how it’s going to directly impact you,” Scott said.

Scott said NCDOT wants to build a project the community wants.

“We are public servants and we want to build a project that the community wants. So that goes for this project and for every project that we put together. So that’s why we have public hearings, is for people to give feedback for us to make changes and adjustments to find the least environmentally damaging, practicable alternative,” Scott said.

Earlier this month, Wilmington City Council said it wants to eliminate Alternative B, citing an issue with where the bridge would land. NCDOT said it still wants to hear from the public on both options.

The first public hearing is Sept. 14 in Wilmington at Cape Fear Community College in Daniels Hall at 6 p.m. A second hearing is Sept. 15 at 6 p.m. at the Leland Cultural Arts Center.

Public comments can also be emailed or phoned in to NCDOT. The public comment period ends Oct. 15. NCDOT says it will review and respond to all questions, and comments will be taken into consideration.

More details on the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge project can be found here.