New traffic pattern creates problems for drivers

OAK ISLAND, NC (WWAY) — A major road project in Brunswick County is moving forward but it’s causing traffic congestion and confusion for drivers.

What’s known as the  Long Beach Road Extension is open in Oak Island and the existing Long Beach Road is closed which caused some trouble for commuters Monday.

Nancy Minan, describes the traffic as a mess.

“When I came in here it was all backed up, on Long Beach Road and down 211 and I can’t figure out how all this is supposed to work,” said Minan.

Alex Stewart, NCDOT Engineer, said it’ll’ take time for people to adjust to the change.

“What we did was open the new location from NC-133 and 87 which is River Road, all the way through to 211 and the continued that toward Oak Island,” said Stewart.

Stewart said with that transition they had to close the existing Long Beach Road that goes through to Oak Island.

“This allows us to begin construction on the second stage of bridge over Jump and Run Creek,” said Stewart.

Stewart said they plan to have long beach reopened by the summer.

For now, drivers must use the new extension to get onto Oak Island from that area.