WILMINGTON — The North Carolina Department of Transportation is asking Wilmington residents for their opinions on plans to reduce traffic congestion at the intersection of Military Cutoff and Eastwood roads.
Monday afternoon NCDOT engineers and staff met with local residents regarding TIP Project U-5710. The meeting offered residents a chance to voice concerns and to see some of the proposed plans for the intersection.
“Were here for public comments, so we have both alternatives and the public gets to come by and see how this affects their property, or their commute, or their travel plans,” NCDOT Engineer Karen Collette said.
According to the NCDOT, “Traffic counts are expected to increase significantly in the next 20 years. The proposed improvements will accommodate a higher traffic capacity while maintaining an acceptable speed of travel through the corridor.”
The meeting offered a firsthand look at the two proposed alternatives for the intersection, which is poised to see significant traffic increases by 2035. In 2015, Military Cutoff saw 41,000 trips, while in 2035 the NCDOT estimates an average of 64,000.
The project has a budget of $25.8 million and, according to the project timeline (which is subject to change), would be scheduled to open by 2024.
The first alternative for the intersection would include a bridge over Military Cutoff Road, from Eastwood Road. Several new traffic lights would also be installed along the corridor and roads would be widened.
The second alternative would add a new road connecting Military Cutoff and Eastwood Road before the intersection, thereby reducing the amount of left turns at the main junction. According to the NCDOT, “Removing left turns from the main intersection would improve the efficiency of the intersection.”
For those who did not get a chance to make it to the meeting, there is still time to voice any concerns. Residents are encouraged to visit the project information page online, or email comments or concerns to mlbass@ncdot.gov by Sept. 11.
Michael Praats can be reached via email at Michael.p@localvoicemedia.com
U 5710 Handout NCDOT by Michael James on Scribd
NCDOT staff as well as contractors offered explanations to Wilmington residents Monday evening regarding the proposed plans to alleviate traffic at Military Cutoff Road and Eastwood Road (Port City Daily photo /MICHAEL PRAATS)
