SANDY CREEK – A bridge in Brunswick County closed this morning for several months to allow contract crews to replace it.
The nearly 50-year-old bridge on Maco Road (N.C. 87) over Batarora Branch will be demolished and then rebuilt. The project is estimated to cost $1.2 million.
The project was suspended in May after environmental agencies found a protect species, Carolina Wren, nesting underneath the existing bridge. A few weeks later the birds hatched, and they have since flown away, allowing crews to begin work.
Drivers will be detoured onto U.S. 74/76 and Interstate 140 to access either side of the closure.
N.C. Department of Transportation urges drivers to take the detour into account when planning their commute and move carefully near construction.
For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.