Project Plans
The Downtown Trail is divided into three phases, with Phase 1 currently being prioritized by the Friends of the Wilmington Rail Trail.
Downtown Trail, Phase 1 ​​
Phase 1 Details:
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Length: 1.7 miles
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Route: From CFCC campus to the Love Grove Memorial Bridge
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First 0.5 miles follow the former Atlantic Coast Railway bed, part of which is also the future site of the Wilmington Rail Trail
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The Rail Trail section is planned alongside potential future passenger rail service to Raleigh via the NCDOT
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Currently in the design stage, with efforts underway to secure funding for construction
The primary goal of Phase 1 is to revitalize unused space in the Northside community of Downtown Wilmington, creating connections to local services and cultural landmarks. The trail is designed for walking and biking, and may include:
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Public art
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Wayfinding signage
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Pedestrian-friendly amenities
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Phases 2 & 3 route:
Phases 2 & 3 will continue the trail southward along Burnt Mill Creek and into Forest Hills, eventually linking to the wider city trail system. ​
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Related City Plans & Documents
Rail Trail Master Plan: 2020 | Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
Related Transportation Plans & Documents
August 2024 | NC DOT Rail Division Intercity Rail Corridor Identification and Development
April 2011 | WAVE Transit Train Station Master Plan and Conceptual Design (PDF)​
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