NCDOT Begins Utility Work for $105 Million Wrightsville Beach Bridge

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has started utility work for a $105 million project to replace three bridges connecting Wrightsville Beach in New Hanover County. The project will replace two bridges along West Salisbury Street over Lees Cut and Banks Channel. NCDOT will also replace the South Banks Channel Bridge on Causeway Drive. The new structures will include improvements for pedestrians and cyclists.

NCDOT is using a construction manager/general contractor delivery method, which brings contractors into the project during the design phase. The agency expects this approach to shorten the construction schedule while addressing traffic impacts before major work begins.

Utility relocation is underway around the West Salisbury Street bridge. Construction on that bridge is scheduled to begin by the end of 2026. NCDOT plans to maintain two traffic lanes to and from Wrightsville Beach throughout construction.

The $105 million project budget includes $70.8 million for construction, $32.2 million for property acquisition, and $2 million for utility work. NCDOT is targeting spring 2030 for project completion.