Debate continues over future of Cape Fear Memorial Bridge replacement

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– As state transportation officials move forward with plans to replace the aging Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, community leaders remain divided over what the new crossing should look like.

The Historic Wilmington Foundation is advocating for a 65-foot lift bridge instead the North Carolina Department of Transportation other option, a 135-foot fixed-span bridge.

Carol Bullock, executive director of the Historic Wilmington Foundation, said the shorter lift bridge would reduce impacts on nearby historic neighborhoods, protect wetlands and preserve Wilmington’s character.

“What we’re advocating for is an option that does the least amount of damage to our natural and human environments,” Bullock said.

The foundation argues the taller bridge would require elevated approaches and off-ramps that could permanently change surrounding neighborhoods. Bullock said increased traffic, noise and the loss of protected wetlands could negatively affect residents and property values.

Bullock also questioned whether a fixed-span bridge is necessary. She cited a recent NCDOT study that found the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge was lifted 26 times during the first quarter of 2024, with most openings occurring for maintenance or training rather than large commercial vessels.

“Most of those lifts were just for maintenance or training,” Bullock said. “The big vessels that used to come and go have moved to different places now. We’re not seeing those large vessels come down.”

Others say the fixed-span bridge is the best long-term investment for the Wilmington region.

Natalie English, president and CEO of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, said a taller, wider bridge would better accommodate future growth while avoiding the long-term maintenance costs associated with a movable bridge.

“We’ve got to think about this bridge and how it will accommodate the continued growth and the change in our community for generations to come,” English said.

English said investing in larger infrastructure would help Wilmington remain competitive with other cities in the Southeast.

“Look at Charleston, look at Savannah,” she said. “They’ve all taken the opportunity to invest in infrastructure that is accommodating their growth today but will also accommodate their futures. We can do that here.”