Feasibility study being conducted for Wilmington downtown trail phases 2 and 3

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (WMPO) and the NC Department of Transportation’s Integrated Mobility Division are in the process of conducting a feasibility study to determine the most suitable route for the Wilmington Downtown Trail Phases 2 and 3.

The trail is proposed to parallel Burnt Mill Creek from Archie Blue Park/Love Grove area to Forest Hills Drive near Forest Hills Elementary School.

The Downtown Trail project was identified as the #1 project priority in the 2013 Wilmington/New Hanover County Greenway Plan. Phase 1 of the trail, which includes the Wilmington Rail Trail and will provide a trail connection from 3rd Street to the Love Grove Bridge, is currently being designed.

The feasibility study for phases 2 and 3 of the trail will bridge the gap between conceptual planning and construction of a trail that will connect neighborhoods, parks, and schools along Burnt Mill Creek; promote sustainable transportation and recreation options; and improve quality of life while encouraging economic development, according to a press release.

The study will result in a recommended alignment for the trail and a preliminary sketch of what the trail will look like when constructed.

To determine the recommended trail alignment for the Wilmington Downtown Trail Phases 2 and 3, in December 2023, the project team reached out to the public to learn about priorities and uses of the trail.

This information was incorporated with environmental data and engineering details to develop several specific trail alignment options. The project team is now inviting the public to learn more about the trail alignment options and provide their feedback and preferences for these options.

You can attend one of two events to learn more:

– Saturday June 15th at Frankies Outdoor Market at 1019 Princess Street from 10AM – 1PM

– Tuesday June 18th at the Nir Family YMCA at 2710 Market Street from 4PM – 6PM

Each of these events will offer the same materials for discussion and citizen input.

If unable to attend an in-person event, the public is encouraged to participate online by responding to a brief survey HERE.

The survey will be available through July 15th.