Cape Fear Memorial Bridge Replacement Awarded $242 Million Grant

In a significant development for Wilmington and the surrounding region, federal, state, and local officials gathered in July to celebrate the announcement of a major grant. The U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded North Carolina $242 million to replace the aging Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, as announced by Governor Roy Cooper and U.S. Senator Thom Tillis.

This substantial grant, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), marks a crucial step in replacing the 3,000-foot-long steel vertical-lift bridge, which has been in operation since 1969. The bridge, which carries U.S. Highways 17, 76, and 421 over the Cape Fear River, is a vital link between Brunswick and New Hanover counties. The new structure is planned to be a high-rise, fixed-span bridge, designed to enhance transportation efficiency and safety in the area.

Senator Tillis, who played a pivotal role in negotiating, writing, and passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, expressed his excitement about the project. He stated, “The replacement of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge is a critical investment in Wilmington’s infrastructure and a shining example of how the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is benefitting North Carolina. I’m grateful to city and county officials, including Mayor Saffo, the New Hanover County Commissioners, and other local officials, for their partnership in pushing for the bridge replacement. This investment is only possible because of bipartisan leadership at the federal, state, and local levels focused on delivering results for North Carolina.”

The grant will cover approximately half of the $485 million project cost, demonstrating a significant federal investment in the region’s infrastructure. Additionally, we continue to await word on whether the project will also be awarded federal INFRA/MEGA grants.

In addition to Senator Tillis and Governor Cooper, several key individuals should be acknowledged for their contributions to securing this funding including Senator Ted Budd, Congressman David Rouzer, Senator Bill Rabon, Senator Michael Lee, Grayson Overholt, Hank Miller, Landon Zimmer, Natalie English, Neal Andrew, John Lennon, Mike Kozlosky and Chad Kimes.

This project represents a transformative investment in the region, made possible through bipartisan cooperation and a shared commitment to improving infrastructure for the benefit of all North Carolinians.

BASE will continue to advocate for additional grants and funding sources to cover the full replacement cost of this critical infrastructure.