Updated Traffic Advisory:
Avoid if possible: NC24, US258 and NC53 Intersection
Rework project delayed
Heavier than expected traffic of detoured hurricane evacuees has caused a major rework of a key intersection to be delayed, while authorities are now issuing an advisory to avoid the intersection because of the heavy use.
A plan was in place to rework the hurricane damaged traffic signals at the intersection of NC24, US258 and NC53 for Friday. The intersection is at the end of the Jacksonville Bypass.
However, after several roads were closed as a result of flooding, the intersection is a key link in a route now open to Wilmington. Traffic was backed up for miles Thursday as the route was promoted as a safe way to the southern coast.
Therefore, the work to rework the traffic signal has been delayed. It could occur over the weekend, but transportation officials will evaluate the demand on the intersection before committing to that time.
Local travelers should consider an alternate route to avoid the likely congestion during this Wilmington rerouting.
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