NCDOT Revises Cape Fear Bridge Plan

The updated Alternative B design removes a Fifth Avenue connection and replaces it with a loop system linking to Third Street.

Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Openings & Closings

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The North Carolina Department of Transportation has revised the Alternative B design for replacing the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, eliminating a Fifth Avenue connection. NCDOT continues weighing Alternative A and the revised Alternative B for the project.

Why it matters

The changes respond to public concerns about preservation and downtown traffic, shaping how the bridge replacement affects Wilmington's central streets. Residents' comments will inform which alternative NCDOT ultimately advances.

The revised Alternative B keeps a 135-foot fixed-span clearance over the Cape Fear River, compared with Alternative A's movable span offering 65 to 135 feet of vertical navigation clearance. NCDOT has not yet chosen between the two designs.

The players

North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT)

The state agency responsible for planning, building and maintaining North Carolina's highway and bridge infrastructure, including the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge replacement.

The details

The revised Alternative B design replaces a connection at Fifth Avenue with a large loop system linking to Third Street. The updated project maps, visual renderings and an environmental assessment addendum are available on the NCDOT project webpage.

Sept. 14 and 15: Public hearings presented the initial bridge replacement concepts.
Dec. 4: Deadline for community comment submissions by email, phone or online.

Market Landscape

The revision follows NCDOT's public hearing process, in which community feedback on preservation and downtown traffic led the agency to alter its initial plan. The outcome shows how state-led infrastructure projects in Wilmington adjust to local input before a final alternative is chosen.

Wilmington residents can submit comments on the bridge options through Dec. 4 by email, phone or online. The final choice will affect downtown traffic patterns and how the river crossing looks from nearby streets.

The takeaway

Residents who want to influence the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge replacement should review the updated design materials and submit comments before the December deadline. Early input has already changed NCDOT's plan, showing that public feedback can shape the final result.