Overview
As depicted in the above rendering, the preferred design alternative is a 650-foot bridge that spans both Hewletts Creek and the associated coastal wetlands. The bridge includes a multi-use path and can be widened in the future to accommodate additional lanes if Pine Grove Drive is widened.
Additional benefits of the design include:
- Removal of the existing causeway and restoration of coastal wetlands, increasing natural flood carrying capacity of the creek
- Increased navigability of Hewletts Creek for watercraft from the increased clearance under the higher bridge
- Increased resiliency by widening the channel and reducing the potential for scour along the bridge piers and abutments
- Higher load capacity
A separate project has been added to the City's 5-year Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Programmed Unfunded list to construct a multi-use path along Pine Grove Drive, connecting the Greenville Loop Trail to the Masonboro Loop Trail. While funding has not currently been allocated for the trail project, inclusion in the CIP list of programmed projects provides opportunities for the City to seek grant funding to assist in construction of that project.
Cost Estimate
$12.85 million*
*The City is applying for a Bridge Investment Program Grant from the Federal Highway Administration. If approved, the City's cost could be as low as 20% of the project cost ($2.57 million), of which $2.39 million is already budgeted in the CIP.
If the City does not receive a grant to assist in construction of the bridge, the preferred design would not be feasible due to cost. The City would instead replace the bridge as described in Design Alternate 1.