Carolina Bay Extension Proposal Targets Traffic Relief in Brunswick County

BRUNSWICK, NC (WWAY) — The Carolina Bay extension is a proposed expressway that would connect S.C. Highway 9 to Highway 17 in southern Brunswick County. 

Due to the rapid growth of Brunswick County, traffic congestion has become a growing concern for residents.    

Shallotte Mayor Walter Eccard says this proposed highway could ease those traffic issues while also offering other potential benefits.  

“We’re always looking for alternatives to ease traffic congestion. This also is an important emergency evacuation route in terms of hurricanes and adverse weather, uh, and it provides for a limited access if people are travelling straight through from one point to another,” said Eccard.  

Along with the benefits of a new highway, Eccard acknowledges that there could be some concerns from residents when it comes to the potential impact on their homes. 

“People want more information, they want to understand how it’s going to affect them and their properties, of course their ease of transport throughout the county,” said Eccard.  

Eccard says he expects a mix of both positive and negative feedback during upcoming public hearings. He emphasizes there’s no official route yet, and likely won’t be for a while.  

“I think it’s important to stress that no route has been selected, that will not take place until all the comments are received and the final environmental impact statement is issued, which is probably at least a year away,” said Eccard. 

Mayor Eccard encourages all interested residents to attend the public hearing on September 29th from 5 to 8 pm, located at the Sea Trail Convention Center, 75-A Clubhouse Road, in Sunset Beach.