News Summary
The Wilmington City Council has approved $3.7 million in funding for the second phase of the Greenville Loop Trail project, aiming to enhance transportation and recreational infrastructure. This 1.6-mile section will connect Pine Grove Drive to Old Military Road and is expected to be completed by spring 2026. With the total project cost estimated at $3,864,253, the funding secures necessary resources to address logistical challenges while improving connectivity and safety in the area.
Wilmington Approves $3.7 Million Funding for Greenville Loop Trail Phase Two
Wilmington, NC — The Wilmington City Council has allocated $3.7 million in funding to advance the second section of the Greenville Loop Trail project, a key element in the city’s broader efforts to enhance its trail system and transportation infrastructure. The funding was approved during a council meeting held on July 15, 2025.
Details of the Second Section and Project Timeline
The second section of the Greenville Loop Trail will span 1.6 miles and is set to be the longest stretch of the entire 4.4-mile trail. It will feature an asphalt surface, ADA ramps to improve accessibility, and will connect Pine Grove Drive to Old Military Road. The construction contract for this segment was awarded to Wells Brothers Construction following a public bidding process.
The overall project cost for this phase is estimated at $3,864,253. With the allocated funding, the remaining costs are secured within the project’s total budget, facilitating the project’s progress without additional financial hurdles.
Construction Schedule and Expected Completion
Construction on this section is projected to last approximately nine months, with completion anticipated in spring 2026. This timeline reflects the city’s goal of further developing walkable and bike-friendly routes across Wilmington while addressing logistical considerations like utilities, drainage, and stormwater management.
The project includes infrastructure improvements such as utility adjustments, drainage system upgrades, and the installation of a new traffic signal at Bradley Creek Elementary to enhance safety for pedestrians and vehicles.
Context and Previous Developments
The first section of the Greenville Loop Trail, a one-mile stretch along Holly Tree Road from South College Road to Pine Grove Drive, was completed in 2023. Construction bids for the remaining two sections—one along Greenville Loop Road from Old Military Road to Park Avenue, and the other from Holly Tree Road to a planned roundabout at the Pine Grove Drive/Greenville Loop Road intersection—are expected to be opened later this year.
The final section will also include a signaled pedestrian crossing at Oleander Drive, further promoting safety and connectivity within the trail network.
Additional Trail and Infrastructure Projects
In addition to the Greenville Loop Trail, Wilmington intends to develop a new 0.7-mile multi-use path along Kerr Avenue. This path aims to connect the University of North Carolina Wilmington campus with commercial areas north of Market Street. Construction for this project is scheduled to begin in fall 2025.
The city’s efforts are part of a larger 2014 transportation bond package approved by voters, totaling $55 million, which funds various trail improvements and transportation-related projects throughout Wilmington.
City Officials and Project Significance
City officials highlight the importance of the Greenville Loop Trail as a long-overdue addition to Wilmington’s infrastructure, emphasizing that the project has long been demanded by local residents. The project involves addressing challenges such as private property access, utility realignments, and stormwater management. It also includes safety enhancements such as new traffic signals and pedestrian safety features near schools.
Overall, the Greenville Loop Trail project aims to improve walkability and cycling options across Wilmington, offering a safer, more accessible network of multi-use paths that support the city’s transportation goals and enhance quality of life for residents and visitors alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Star News Online: Construction to begin on Greenville Loop Trail
- WECT: Second phase of Greenville Loop Trail set to begin
- WECT: Greenville Loop Trail project update
- WWAY: New crosswalk has opened in Wilmington
- Wikipedia: Greenville Loop Trail
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
