The Cape Fear Memorial Bridge will shape Wilmington for generations. Understand the options. Know the impacts. Make your voice heard.Didn't have time to read the 400+ page document? We've got you covered.
The work will involve a full replacement of the bridge deck; repairs to existing pedestals; cleaning, painting and repair of the steel members and substructure; and installation of a new three-bar metal rail system that complies with current NCDOT standards. The bridge, originally built in the 1960s, runs through the CFCC campus. An adjacent pedestrian walkway on the East side of the bridge will remain open for most of the project. Vehicles will be able to detour onto Nutt Street or use any of the adjacent streets in the downtown grid. The $2.45 million repair project is being conducted by Saffo Contractors Inc. of Wilmington.
On September 26, 2026, the Front Street bridge (between Hanover and Red Cross streets) will be closed for approximately six months for structural repairs. Prior, there will be nightly lane closures, 8 p.m. to 7 a.m., on the Front Street bridge as a prelude to the larger project. A flagger will be in place to control traffic and allow North and Southbound vehicles to alternate.