May 19, 2013
A new high rise bridge will be built over the intracoastal waterway to Topsail Island in Pender County. The project will replace a swing bridge that is nearly 60 years old.
There are some mixed feelings about tearing down the swing bridge. Some people feel like its part of Surf City history while others who are tired of tourist traffic are thrilled to see it go.
"I understand how the people feel about the bridge because it's been here a long time, but it's time. We need a high rise bridge because there are constantly wrecks during the summer. It gets backed up and it's a mess," said local business owner Linda Batson.
The bridge location and route has been decided, but it will be several years before it's complete. Construction on the high rise is set to start in 2017.
