Cape Fear Memorial Bridge replacement
The aging 1969 Cape Fear Memorial Bridge requires replacement estimated at $1.03–1.11 billion; a $242 million federal grant is secured but a large funding gap remains. Local leaders prefer a movable-span design over fixed and seek more federal aid plus an updated navigational study to avoid or minimize tolls, which most commissioner candidates oppose due to cost-of-living and traffic concerns.
How should New Hanover County and the state fund replacement of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge?
Tap a point along the line below to show where you stand.
How important is this to you?
✓ You told us where you stand
Sources
New Hanover County — https://portcitydaily.com/latest-news/2026/09/18/new-hanover-county-deploys-letter-advocate-seeking-federal-assistance-on-cfm-bridge/
new-hanover-county-deploys-letter-advocate-seeking-federal-assistance-on-cfm-bridge
New Hanover County Board of Commissioners — https://www.nhcgov.com/2465/Legislative-Priorities
aging 1969 Cape Fear Memorial Bridge needs replacement at an estimated $1.03–1.11 billion
Positions on this issue · liberal → conservative
- Maximize federal and state grants with no tolls and prioritize the lower-impact movable span
- Secure more public funding first while keeping tolls as a last-resort option only
- Accept a mix of grants, state funds, and limited tolls if needed for timely replacement
- Favor tolls or private financing to minimize local tax burden and speed construction
- Delay major spending until full federal coverage is guaranteed and oppose any tolls or local debt