PUBLIC NOTICE
The Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (WMPO) and the NC Department of Transportation’s Integrated Mobility Division (NCDOT IMD) are conducting phase two of the Gullah Geechee Heritage Trail Feasibility Study and are seeking public input. Community members are invited to provide their input on alternative routes for the Gullah Geechee Heritage Trail to connect from Phoenix Park in Navassa to the Brunswick County Nature Park on NC-133 (River Road).
This study will bridge the gap between conceptual planning and construction of a trail that will celebrate local cultural heritage, promote sustainable transportation and recreation, and encourage economic development. The study will result in the recommended alignment (routing) of the trail and a preliminary sketch of what the trail will look like when constructed.
The public is invited to attend and provide their input at one of three public outreach events. WMPO staff and study partners will be present to discuss the project, answer questions, and gather input that will be used to identify the community’s trail preferences and priorities. Upcoming in-person opportunities include:
- Navassa Community Center: Thursday, March 14, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 338 Main Street Navassa, NC 28451
- Easter Egg Hunt at Belville River Walk Park: Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 580 River Rd SE, Belville, NC 28451
- Leland Town Hall: Tuesday, March 26, 2024, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 102 Town Hall Dr, Leland, NC 28451
Each of these events will offer the same materials for discussion and community input. If unable to attend an in-person event, the public is encouraged to participate online by responding to a brief survey. Materials and the online survey can be found at wmpo.org/gullah-geechee-heritage-trail-feasibility-study. The survey will be available through March 31, 2024.
Individuals with disabilities who are planning to attend the community input meetings can request reasonable accommodation from the WMPO. To request accommodation, please contact the WMPO at least 48 hours in advance at 910.341.3258 or via email.
For additional information regarding phase 2 of the Gullah Geechee Heritage Trail Feasibility Study, visit the project website or contact WMPO Senior Transportation Planner Vanessa Lacer at 910.341.3234 or via email.