WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – A federal grant for $242 million is making the idea of replacing the aging Cape Fear Memorial Bridge a reality.

The grant was first announced on Friday, July 12. On July 17, state and local leaders talked more about that grant funding during a press conference.

At the press conference, Gov. Roy Cooper called replacing the bridge one of the state’s top priorities.

Leaders say the bridge could be constructed within the next decade. They say it’s all an effort to make the bridge safer and stronger, especially as more drivers cross the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge every day.

“It’s a significant day in the quest to replace the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, which is a lifeline for Wilmington and Southeastern North Carolina,” said Cooper.

The funds come from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law via a Bridge Investment Program-Large Bridge Project discretionary grant.

Leaders say it’s an investment that will be felt long into the future.

“We’re doing our part to ensure the future of this special place that we call home, making it safer and stronger for those who come after us,” said Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo.

Right now, officials say nearly 70,000 drivers cross over the bridge every day. They say within five to 10 years, that number is expected to grow to 100,000 drivers, an amount not intended for this bridge from the 1960s.

“This bridge is a critical connector, but long term, its useful life is coming to an end. And this community has recognized that harsh reality and has gone to work,” said Cooper

It’s work that Shailen Bhatt, Federal Highway Administrator, says will take some time but be more than worth it in the end.

“Because of all of the repairs that have had to take place, just like on your own house, you want to replace something when the cost of repair is much greater, and this bridge is getting to the end of its service life,” said Bhatt.

This federal grant will only cover about half the cost of the project, but it’s believed state and local money could cover the rest.

Cooper says that’s important because it won’t only impact the people in the Cape Fear region, but the rest of the state as well.

“Today, we celebrate. This afternoon, we get back to work. And we continue our efforts to make North Carolina even more prosperous for all of our people,” said Cooper.

Leaders say they will continue to work with the Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization to consider other funding options for the remainder of the project.

Copyright 2024 WECT. All rights reserved.