Eastwood overpass gains chamber support

(WWAY) — Debate continues over the proposed Eastwood Road overpass project as supporters and opponents weigh in on what could become one of the largest transportation projects in the Wilmington area.

According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, the estimated $81 million project would carry Eastwood Road over Military Cutoff Road, separating the two major corridors and eliminating the existing intersection. Transportation officials say the project is intended to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion at one of the region’s busiest intersections.

Still, opposition to the proposal remains. Some community members have questioned whether the project would significantly improve traffic conditions and have raised concerns about potential impacts during construction.

Among those concerns is the timing of the project alongside planned bridge replacement work in the Wrightsville Beach area. Susan Bulluck, chair of the Wrightsville Beach Chamber of Commerce, said she worries overlapping projects could create challenges because Eastwood Road serves as the primary route on and off the island.

“These brides will be built earlier and hopefully take less time, but they are scheduled to happen at the same time as the overpass, the hardscape,” said Bulluck.

Now, the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce is voicing support for the proposal, calling it an important investment for the region.

Natalie English, president and CEO of the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, said the project addresses both traffic and safety concerns at a heavily traveled intersection.

“It is a critical component of the state’s transportation improvement plan, and it’s at an intersection that is one of the top 5% in the state of North Carolina in need from a congestion and safety perspective,” said English.