Wilmington Secured Grant for Lions Bridge Project

The city received $450,000 in federal funding to replace the Lions Bridge in Greenfield Park.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in National Parks

Isometric editorial illustration of a pedestrian bridge model structure spanning a calm stylized lake surface. — Wilmington has been awarded a $450,000 federal grant to fund the reconstruction of the Lions Bridge in Greenfield Park. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Wilmington has been awarded a $450,000 federal grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund to support the reconstruction of the Lions Bridge. The project aims to reconnect segments of Greenfield Park after the original bridge was demolished due to structural concerns.

Why it matters

Replacing the bridge is essential for restoring pedestrian access across Greenfield Lake, following the closure and eventual demolition of the 1960s-era structure. This grant helps bridge a funding gap for the estimated $1.1 million total project cost.

The city previously secured $500,000 through the Great Trails State Program, contributing to the total project budget. These funds are part of a broader $4 million allocation distributed across nine park projects throughout North Carolina.

The players

North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

This state agency oversees the administration of grants for park projects and cultural heritage preservation across North Carolina.

The details

The original bridge, which spanned roughly 210 feet, closed in 2023 and suffered fire damage in 2024 before its demolition in early 2025. City officials are currently holding public engagement events to collect community feedback regarding the new bridge design.

The original bridge was constructed in the 1960s.
The bridge closed due to settlement issues in October 2023.
The bridge sustained fire damage in October 2024.
The city demolished the original structure in early 2025.
The first public engagement event occurred on September 27, 2026.

Travel Outlook

This project reflects a broader trend of municipalities prioritizing the revitalization of legacy park infrastructure that has aged beyond its intended lifespan. Such investments are critical for maintaining tourism and recreational connectivity within regional park networks like those in North Carolina.

Residents should monitor city announcements to participate in upcoming design feedback sessions for the new bridge. Once construction begins, visitors to Greenfield Park should anticipate potential temporary detours or restricted access near Greenfield Lake.

The takeaway

Securing federal funding is a major milestone in restoring long-term connectivity to one of the city's primary green spaces. Residents are encouraged to stay involved in the public comment phase to ensure the new design meets community needs for years to come.

What happens next

Design work is scheduled to continue through 2027, with construction bidding expected to commence during the winter of 2027-28 and project completion targeted for late 2028.