Last week’s celebration was a testament to the power of community and the strength of our collective vision. It was exhilarating to see leaders from both sides of the river and political spectrum come together as the Federal Highway Administrator announced an unprecedented grant of $242 million for the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge replacement thanks to investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law supported by NC Senator Thom Tillis as well as the Biden Administration. With an additional $85 million expected from the NCDOT’s Prioritization 7.0 process, we are well on our way to breaking ground on this pivotal project.
 
However, this achievement is just the beginning. Our community has shown that by coming together, we can address major obstacles to our future growth. Yet, the work is far from over. It is crucial that we maintain our cohesion, trust the process, and focus on the long-term benefits rather than the short-term needs of a few.
 
Infrastructure investments are the cornerstone of a competitive community. CNBC recently ranked infrastructure as the number one consideration in the Best States for Business Rankings, surpassing even workforce. Our competitor communities, such as Charleston with its 575-foot Ravenel Bridge and Savannah with its plans to elevate the Talmadge Memorial Bridge, understand the importance of forward-thinking infrastructure. We must continue to attract people and jobs by ensuring our own infrastructure keeps pace.
 
Advocacy for a new Cape Fear River crossing began long before my tenure at the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, but I’ve been proud to be one of many carrying the torch more recently. Twice this century, our region’s leaders failed to agree on a location for an additional bridge, stalling progress. The commitment of the Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization to keep all funding options on the table was instrumental in elevating this project from a 240+ ranking to the top ten in the state. This commitment demonstrates our seriousness about securing this essential infrastructure.
 
Maintaining this momentum is vital. We need to continue identifying revenue sources to close the funding gap. While no one wants tolls, our cohesiveness and commitment will help us find solutions that benefit the entire region.
 
As we move forward, trust in the process is key. The NCDOT staff’s environmental assessments will guide us, and we must recognize that our growing region demands a better bridge for commuters, tourists, and trucks.
 
At the Chamber, we believe the new bridge must be taller than the current one. Although this will alter the downtown landscape, it will significantly improve access to jobs, healthcare, entertainment, and other amenities, thereby boosting our community’s tax revenues. A higher, static bridge is essential for encouraging economic growth by allowing uninterrupted traffic flow, which attracts more businesses and jobs. Secondly, it future-proofs our infrastructure, avoiding costly modifications in the long run as demand for taller waterway clearance grows. Thirdly, it enhances safety and navigation by improving conditions for large vessels, reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, a higher bridge attracts more recreational boaters and sailors, boosting tourism and outdoor activities. Lastly, a taller bridge enhances the visual appeal and architectural landscape of the area, becoming a landmark that defines our city’s skyline.
 
According to the NC DOT’s June 2022 Study, the Wilmington Local Historic District and downtown business district are not expected to be impacted by the new bridge. The current design, which does not include rail, makes only slight adjustments at the intersection of Front Street. Furthermore, based on the current express designs, Listed or Determined Eligible National Register resources are not anticipated to be impacted. Any organizations promoting conspiracy theories to the contrary are simply not based in truth. Factual and transparent data that’s available to the public should be reassuring our community that the project respects our historic and business districts while paving the way for future growth and connectivity.
 
The construction of a fixed 135-foot replacement for the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge is a strategic investment in our future. By enhancing connectivity, supporting economic growth, ensuring safety, and enriching our cultural fabric, the new bridge will drive progress and prosperity.
 
We must think futuristically about the bridge replacement, focusing not on what pleases us today but on what future generations will need. Embracing this transformative project is essential for unlocking the Cape Fear region’s full potential and ensuring a sustainable, vibrant future for all.