WILMINGTON – The proposed timeline of a major project is moving up, which means improvements to a corridor in New Hanover and Pender counties are expected to come sooner than originally planned.
Recently, the N.C. Department of Transportation and Wilmington Metropolitan Planning Organization (WMPO) agreed to adjust multiple projects in the draft 2024-2033 State Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP). With the adjustments, construction of the second portion of the Hampstead Bypass, N.C. 140 to N.C. 210, would move from fall 2026 to summer 2025 in the draft plan.
“I am glad we agreed to move this project forward,” said Division 3 Engineer Chad Kimes. “Together, NCDOT and WMPO understand how important it is to the people live, work and visit the area.”
Construction of the first portion of the Hampstead Bypass, N.C. 210 to north of Hampstead, began in early 2022.
When both sections are complete, the project is expected to improve safety and relieve congestion around the town of Hampstead.
NCDOT and WMPO agreed to adjust the proposed timelines of other future projects as well:
Upgrading the intersections of U.S. 76 (Oleander Drive) at Greenville Loop Road and Greenville Avenue has been accelerated with construction planned to begin in 2029.
Upgrade Front Street wiht right of way in 2025 and construction in 2027.
Widening U.S. 421 (Carolina Beach Road) from N.C. 132 (South College Road) to Sanders Road and constructing flyovers at U.S. 421 and N.C. 132 has been accelerated with construction set to begin in 2027.
The draft 2024-2033 STIP can be viewed here and will be updated to reflect the changes above. More information on the STIP process can be found on this NCDOT webpage. The Board of Transportation is expected to adopt the 2024-33 STIP in spring 2023.