Traffic impacts due to the North 3rd Street Improvement Project are as follows:
- Traffic on North 3rd Street will be detoured to 4th Street for a two-block section between Brunswick and Campbell Streets beginning Monday, May 21 at 7 am and lasting through Tuesday evening, May 22. This temporary closure of North 3rd Street is necessary so crews can install a new sewer line across the road at the intersection of North 3rd and Hanover Street.
- Traffic control has been installed from Market Street North to the railroad bridge. There is one travel lane in each direction with turn lanes at the Market, Princess, Chestnut and Grace Street intersections. There is no on-street parking on North 3rd Street between Market Street and the railroad bridge.
- Motorists may use 5th Avenue as an alternative route.
What
Below the ground:
- Replacement of aging water and sewer pipes (downtown pipe replacement rated as highest priority in citywide assessment)
- Conversion of overhead utilities to underground
Above the ground:
- Renovation of streetscape – street paving and sidewalks, curbs, crosswalks, street furnishings, lighting, traffic signals and plantings
- Combine both projects to minimize disruption to businesses on North 3rd Street
Why
- Convert overhead utilities underground – reduces potential for damage from storm events and is more aesthetically pleasing
- Replace aging water and sewer pipes – more than 100 years old in some cases
- Improve a major gateway corridor into the city and make downtown more accessible and pedestrian-friendly
Where
- North 3rd Street between Market Street and Davis and North Front streets
When
- August 2011 – October 2012
How
- Traffic Control: Traffic on North Third Street will be temporarily shifted to the east side while underground utility work is being performed. Work will proceed a couple of blocks at a time from Market Street up to Davis and North Front streets. Temporary traffic detours to side streets may be needed at some points during construction, especially during new pavement installation. Intersections will remain partially open whenever possible.
- Pedestrian Access: Sidewalks directly in front of buildings will be replaced, however access will remain open. Some temporary structures may be used at times.
- Work Hours: Generally 7 am – 6 pm, Monday through Friday; some nights and weekends as necessary.
Project Details
Staff from project designer Kimley-Horn gave a detailed presentation on the project at a public meeting in July
View the presentation
For more information
- Updates will be posted here (wilmingtonnc.gov/north3rd) and on the city's Facebook page
- Mike Naklicki, City Project Manager, 341-5897
- Jamison Fair, CFPUA Project Manager, 332-6633