Canal Drive to shift to one-way traffic pattern near Carolina Beach boardwalk

CAROLINA BEACH, NC (WWAY) — The Town of Carolina Beach is preparing to change the traffic pattern on a portion of Canal Drive in the boardwalk area in an effort to improve safety for pedestrians and drivers.

According to the town, increased foot traffic and higher vehicle volumes have raised safety concerns over time. To address this, the southernmost section of Canal Drive, from Cape Fear Boulevard to Harper Avenue, will shift to one-way northbound traffic.

The change will be supported by new striping, signage, and structures designed to guide vehicles safely through the area.

Construction on the new layout is scheduled to begin Monday and is expected to be finished by the end of the week. The town will evaluate how well the one-way configuration works and, if successful, plans to expand safety improvements before the 2026 summer season.