Speakers Urge Wilmington Council to Choose Lift Bridge and Higher-Level Review for Cape Fear Memorial Bridge

Two speakers addressed the planned replacement of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge during the public comment period.

Joan Ken, speaking on behalf of the city's Historic Preservation Commission, said the commission reviewed two proposed alternatives — a 65-foot lift bridge and a 135-foot fixed bridge — and found the lift bridge would cause minimal harm to historic districts while the fixed bridge would cause substantial harm. She said the lift bridge would maintain the current right-of-way and continue exiting onto Third Avenue, while the fixed bridge would exit onto Fifth Avenue and threaten recent city investments including the Kenan Fountain. The commission asked the council to pass resolutions favoring the lift bridge, opposing tolls, and requesting that the project's environmental study area be expanded to include downtown historic districts.

David Hendrickson urged the council to press the North Carolina Department of Transportation to conduct a full Environmental Impact Statement rather than the environmental assessment currently underway. He described the project as a "$1.2 to $1.3 billion" undertaking and said he had sent council members a letter identifying 10 adverse environmental conditions he believes would only be addressed through the higher-level review. He asked the council to consider its options, including a resolution, a letter, or having the city attorney represent its interests.

Source: City Council July 21, 2026