Ocean Gate Plaza in Leland closes for improvements

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — A busy intersection in Leland closed Tuesday for improvements, and it’s expected to snarl traffic for the next few months. 

Road crews have put up construction barrels and barriers, blocking off access to Ocean Gate Plaza from Highway 17.  

The area closed is near the new 7-Eleven convenience store and the existing roundabout closest to Lowe’s Home Improvement.  

The project will include new sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, landscaping and street signs along the median. 

It will also feature a teardrop roundabout traffic pattern. 

Project manager Christine Schrecaengost says it will enhance safety and improve traffic flow. 

“A teardrop round-about is if you envision a tear drop. So you’re going to be able to go in the round-about, make a right, go straight, or come the whole way through. You’re not going to be able to go the whole way around like a traditional roundabout,” Schrecaengost said. 

Construction on this new traffic pattern is expected to be completed by May.