Roofing Contractor inWilmington, NC.

With plans to bring 750 homes to Rocky Point, developers of the Falls Mist project are working on changing how residents and visitors will get there because of close wetlands.

On behalf of Rocky Point Properties and Farm Gardens, applicant Stroud Engineering made a request to change access to the development when it's built because of an issue with wetlands. The 310-acre project is south of N.C. 210 and west of U.S. 117.

Greg Feldman, a planner for Pender County, made a presentation recently to the planning board about the history of the proposal and rezoning request, which began in 2020. It came with concerns of connecting the area to the Fall Brook neighborhood but was later OK'd by commissioners.

"That was the significant portion of the resistance that we encountered through the entire process," said James Fentress Jr. of Stroud Engineering.

Developers would like to connect to U.S. 117 via Bridgeside Road, as originally planned. The road leading up to U.S. 117 will be paved when it comes time to, according to Fentress.

County officials approved a required roadway connection to the Fall Brook Subdivision through Fall Brook Lane with several connection additions. But the county's Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) allows for review and exemption when wetland impacts would occur because of a roadway connection. The applicant said it would require a "lengthy wetland crossing." If approved, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers would have to submit a jurisdictional delineation, to determine which waters belong to the U.S.

Previous coverage:Decision for 700-plus homes for Rocky Point neighborhood postponed by Pender commissioners

More from Pender County:This Pender County town looks for another 'solidifying thing' after brewing success

Evangelists come to Pender County:Faith and blueberries: After early conflict, evangelists buy Pender farm for headquarters

Developers would like to avoid this by having direct access to U.S. 117. Close to 10 acres of land was purchased to build a collector street connection from the development to the highway.

Following UDO rules, the applicant held a public input meeting for residents near the proposed development in January at the Pender County Library in Burgaw. Some of the concerns were traffic, stormwater, and removal of the connection to Fall Brook Lane.

The other access point is N.C. 210 near the first phase of the development, which includes 300 lots and a farmers market. The second and third phases include 300 and 150 lots respectively. A lift station is also proposed for the Falls Mist area.

Another request was made to change side setbacks for single family homes from 10 feet to 5 feet to provide what developers called the "idea home type." The change will not expect the density.

The request for the zoning request amendment was approved by the planning board after discussions with officials and the public. It will be sent to the Pender County Board of Commissioners for a final decision. The meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. June 19, at the Administration Building, 805 S. Walker St., Burgaw.

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Reporter Chase Jordan can be reached at cjjordan@gannett.com

$50 million renovations support expanded assortment and easier shopping experience to meet customers’ needs

/EIN News/ -- SALISBURY, N.C., May 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With a capital investment exceeding $50 million, Food Lion is unveiling remodeled stores in Wilmington, NC, that feature a new, easier shopping experience for customers. On May 10, Food Lion will hold ribbon-cutting events in the Wilmington area at 24 stores, with five more to follow soon. The investment includes remodeling the stores, providing eCommerce at every store through pickup and/or home delivery options, training and developing associates to provide the best customer experience and giving back to local communities. While renovating and refreshing its look, the redesign reflects Food Lion’s continued commitment to the towns and cities it serves, providing an easy, fresh and affordable shopping experience.

“Food Lion has been a proud neighbor in the Wilmington community for 40 years,” said Meg Ham, President, Food Lion. “From a brand-new look and feel to more convenient grab-and-go items to make any meal easier, each store has made big changes with our customers in mind. We remain committed to keeping our prices low every day, offering great promotions and other opportunities to save. We are excited for our neighbors to experience the enhancements we have made just for them.”

Inspired by feedback from customers and associates, all stores now feature self-checkout lanes and are refreshed with new décor reflecting an enhanced shopping experience.

Two dozen stores will open to the public on May 10, following a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 7:45 a.m. Afterward, the first 100 customers in line will receive a mystery gift card valued up to $250, free reusable shopping bag and trunk organizer.

Remodeled stores include new features for easy, fresh and affordable shoppingStore upgrades include an extensive product assortment with a specific focus on a variety of affordable and easy meal solutions that are ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook or ready-to-heat. Customers will also have more healthy options and a large selection of organic, gluten-free and plant-based items to choose from including Nature’s Promise, Food Lion’s affordable brand of wholesome and organic products made with no artificial flavors, preservatives or synthetic colors.

Food Lion’s enhancements also include offering convenience for shoppers with Food Lion To Go grocery pickup or home delivery service. Online orders may be placed on the Food Lion To Go website or the Food Lion To Go app. The convenient service allows customers to place an order with the click of a button while experiencing the same low prices and fresh food items they receive in the store.

Demonstrating care to its neighbors and communities with a commitment to sustainability, Food Lion’s enhanced stores feature energy-efficient overhead LED lighting and refrigerated cases with doors. The modern solutions impart ambiance, enhance fresh product assortment and reduce energy costs, helping reduce Food Lion’s environmental footprint.

Through its Local Goodness program, Food Lion stores offer a wide variety of regional products sourced from local growers or manufacturers, serving customers in a more meaningful way with products that are the heart and soul of the community. A list of additional North Carolina-based suppliers that may be featured in the store can be found online.

Learn more about the hours of operation, specific services each store offers, and the weekly ad flyer with special celebratory pricing for these stores.

Food Lion Feeds supports food banks to diversify capacities and service Working in partnership to help address food insecurity, Food Lion has also contributed $500,000 through its hunger-relief platform, Food Lion Feeds, to support the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina at Wilmington. The investment supports the 3,000-square-foot commercial kitchen, the first commercial kitchen operated by the nonprofit organization.

“With the cost of so many of the things we buy every day increasing, we need the support from our retail donors. Food Lion has been an incredible partner to food banks across their footprint,” said Beth Gaglione, Branch Director for the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina at Wilmington. “The Food Bank has been able to build a state-of-the-art new facility in Wilmington with an amazing commercial kitchen thanks to Food Lion Feeds. Now we need to fill it with nutritious, healthy food to meet the need of our community. We know we can count on our friends at Food Lion.”

In addition to expanded meal production, the community kitchen will offer an opportunity for culinary arts workforce development, providing qualified individuals from low-to-moderate-income families to gain sought-after skills and find immediate job opportunities, thereby stabilizing their households and working to achieve self-sufficiency.

Food Lion Feeds also provided another $32,500 to support 13 partner feeding agencies with the purchase of refrigerators and freezers. By investing in this opportunity for agency-related capacity building, Food Lion Feeds is helping to address critical needs in providing food to neighbors facing hunger.

Additionally, each Food Lion store regularly donates unsold, edible food that might otherwise go to waste to local feeding agencies to support neighbors in need throughout the year. Food Lion was the first grocery retailer in the country to establish a food rescue program with Feeding America^®, the nation’s largest domestic hunger-relief organization, more than 20 years ago. In 2022, the nearly 30 Wilmington-area stores provided approximately 1.9 million pounds through food rescue to the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina.

Through Food Lion Feeds, Food Lion has helped to provide more than 1 billion meals to individuals and families since 2014 and has committed to donate 1.5 billion meals by 2025. For more information on Food Lion Feeds’ commitment to fight hunger, visit foodlion.com/feeds.

About Food LionFood Lion is an omnichannel retailer committed to nourishing its neighbors during the moments that matter most. More than 82,000 associates across 1,100+ stores deliver an easy, fresh and affordable shopping experience throughout 10 Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic states. Through its ‘Count on me’ culture, Food Lion fosters a sense of belonging for all associates, promoting a diverse and inclusive environment that has supported LGBTQ+ equality for nearly two decades. Food Lion is the only company in the country to be named an ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year for 22 consecutive years. It also pioneered a food rescue program to support food-insecure neighbors. Through Food Lion Feeds, the retailer has donated more than 1 billion meals to individuals and families since 2014 and has committed to donate 1.5 billion meals by 2025. Founded and based in Salisbury, N.C., since 1957, Food Lion is a company of Ahold Delhaize USA, the U.S. division of Zaandam-based Ahold Delhaize. For more information, visit foodlion.com.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/36f8e329-14df-47de-b912-7850480bf20b

Wilmington, NC, known as Hollywood East because of its frequent use in major movies, is a charming city nestled on the southeastern coast of North Carolina. With its stunning beaches, historic downtown district, and thriving arts scene, it’s no wonder that many people are drawn to this coastal city. However, like any city, Wilmington has its pros and cons.

Whether you’re looking at apartments in Wilmington, NC or you’re considering buying a home in the city, it’s important to do your research before making the move. This article will explore the pros and cons of living in Wilmington, providing a comprehensive overview of what it’s like to call this city home. So, is Wilmington, NC, the right place for you? Read on to find out.

5 pros of living in Wilmington, NC

Wilmington, NC, is known for its pleasant weather, relaxed living, and green spaces, but there’s a lot more to the city than that. Here are five reasons why Wilmington can be a good place to call home.

Wilmington, NC, is a popular coastal destination, located along the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Fear River. The city is home to several beautiful beaches, including Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach, which offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, surfing, paddleboarding, and other water sports. The area is also known for its fishing and boating opportunities, with plenty of marinas and charters available for those who are eager to explore the waterways.

The city has a rich history dating back to the 1700 and is known for its well-preserved architecture and cultural heritage. The historic downtown area features many beautiful buildings, including the Bellamy Mansion Museum, the Thalian Hall Center for the Performing Arts, and the USS North Carolina Battleship Memorial. The city also has several museums and galleries, such as the Cape Fear Museum of History and Science and the Cameron Art Museum, which showcase the region’s unique history and culture.

Wilmington has a mild climate, with relatively warm temperatures throughout the year. The city enjoys plenty of sunshine, particularly in the spring and summer months, which makes it a great place for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and golfing. The mild climate also means that the area is less prone to extreme weather events such as hurricanes, which can be a concern in other parts of the country.

In addition to its coastal location, Wilmington is also home to numerous parks and nature preserves, which offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. Airlie Gardens is a popular destination, featuring 67 acres of formal gardens, walking trails, and historic structures. The Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens is another popular outdoor destination, featuring a 5-mile walking trail, a large lake, and plenty of opportunities for picnicking and relaxation.

Wilmington has a relatively affordable cost of living compared to other coastal cities in the US. Housing costs in particular are more affordable than other coastal cities, making it a great place for those who want to enjoy coastal living without breaking the bank. The median house price in Wilmington is 390,000, 2.5% below the national average. Apartments are also cheaper than average, with the standard one-bedroom unit costing around $1,534.

Compared to nearby Carolina cities, Wilmington generally offers a lower cost of living. For example, the cost of living in Durham, NC, is 5% higher than Wilmington, and in Charlotte, it’s 2% higher.

5 cons of living in Wilmington, NC

While Wilmington has plenty of positives, it also has its downsides. Here are five cons to consider before making the move.

Wilmington is located on the southeastern coast of North Carolina, which makes it vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms. While less prone to severe weather than other southern cities, you should still be aware of the risk.

The city has infrastructure in place to prepare for and respond to these events, but hurricanes can still cause significant disruption to daily life. You may need to evacuate, secure your property, and stock up on supplies before a storm hits, which is stressful and expensive. Hurricanes can also cause serious property damage and may uproot your life.

Wilmington’s growing population and limited road infrastructure can result in traffic congestion, particularly during peak travel times. Residents may experience longer commute times, which can make it more difficult to balance work and personal commitments. Additionally, traffic congestion can contribute to air pollution, which can have negative health effects.

While tourism is an important part of Wilmington’s economy, the influx of visitors during the summer months can be a challenge. Crowded beaches, restaurants, and attractions may make it more difficult to enjoy these amenities, especially during peak travel times and school vacations. Tourist crowds can also contribute to traffic congestion and noise pollution.

Wilmington has a limited public transportation system, which can make it difficult for residents without a car to get around the city. This can be particularly challenging for those who live in areas that are not well-served by public transportation, as they may need to rely on taxis or ride-sharing services to get around. Additionally, the limited public transportation system can contribute to traffic congestion, as more residents may choose to drive rather than take public transportation.

The city’s location on the coast means that it experiences high humidity levels, particularly during the summer months. This can make it uncomfortable to be outside, especially if you aren’t used to living in a humid climate. High humidity levels can also contribute to mold growth and pest infestations, which can lead to higher repair costs down the line.

If you are represented by an agent, this is not a solicitation of your business. This article is for informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for professional advice from a medical provider, licensed attorney, financial advisor, or tax professional. Consumers should independently verify any agency or service mentioned will meet their needs. Learn more about our Editorial Guidelines here.

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, N.C. (WECT) - The New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office has announced they have arrested a 17-year-old in connection with the firearm found at Ashley High School on Thursday.

The juvenile reportedly turned himself in to deputies at the New Hanover Detention Facility on Friday.

He is currently being held under a secure custody order and has been charged with possession of a firearm on educational property, possession of a firearm with an altered serial number, possession of a firearm by a minor, possession of marijuana, misdemeanor assault on a school employee, and resist delay obstruct a government official.

According to the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, three schools went into a shelter-in-place Thursday afternoon.

Officials say the student was being searched for drugs when the firearm was located. The student reportedly fled the scene and tried to ditch the gun, but it was located by law enforcement. The gun was loaded at the time, according to the sheriff’s office.

Per the NHCSO, the student has not been found since they ran from the campus. When WECT asked a sheriff’s office representative if a search was underway, they replied: “We are investigating. It’s an open investigation.”

New Hanover County Board of Education Member Pete Wildeboer and Dr. Charles Foust spoke at a press conference on Thursday afternoon to address the incidents. You can watch the press conference below:

“This is very disheartening to us all,” Wildeboer said.

“We do want to continue, and do everything we possibly can to keep students safe,” Wildeboer continued.

“There is never anything we can say to erase the fact that there was an issue today in school,” said Superintendent Charles Foust. “What I will say, is that you will – parents, community, – see a more aggressive approach in our schools.”

“You will probably see a dog in most of our schools. We will be searching for drugs and weapons,” said Foust.

“It’s the end. We are tired of it, I know parents are tired of it. We are taking back our schools, and I have shared with our safety and security folks ‘ You do everything you need to do to make sure it happens.’ And we will start this effective tomorrow,” Foust continued.

“The two situations, they both are horrific, and I would much rather they didn’t happen for sure, 100 percent,” Wildeboer said. “But no one was hurt, the weapons were found, and they were taken care of.”

“We want to inform you that earlier today, all schools on the Veterans Park Campus, including Anderson Elementary, Murray Middle School, and Ashley High School, were placed in a shelter-in-place due to an incident involving a minor, which was promptly addressed by law enforcement,” the school system stated in communication sent to parents. “As the individual involved is under 18, certain details cannot be shared publicly in accordance with the law.”

“However, we can confirm that a weapon was found on Ashley’s campus.”

Last month, an 18-year-old Ashley High student was arrested for having a gun on the school’s campus.

Here is the full update sent to parents this afternoon:

Good Afternoon Veterans Park Campus Families,

We want to inform you that earlier today, all schools on the Veterans Park Campus, including Anderson Elementary, Murray Middle School, and Ashley High School, were placed in a shelter-in-place due to an incident involving a minor, which was promptly addressed by law enforcement. As the individual involved is under 18, certain details cannot be shared publicly in accordance with the law. However, we can confirm that a weapon was found on Ashley’s campus.

The safety and security of our students and staff remains a top priority, and we are dedicated to maintaining a secure environment. Your cooperation is vital in keeping our campus a safe and welcoming place for all.

Today’s dismissal will proceed as planned, but please expect delays due to an increased number of parents picking up their children. We appreciate your understanding and patience during this time.

We also encourage everyone to use the “Say Something” app provided by Sandy Hook Promise to submit anonymous tips on safety-related issues. More information can be found on the NHCS website, and you can download the app at https://www.sandyhookpromise.org/say-something-tips/.

Copyright 2023 WECT. All rights reserved.

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - A new report from a national nonprofit found that 16 percent of major roads in the Wilmington area are in poor condition, and that more funding sources will be needed to keep up with increasing costs.

TRIP, a National Transportation Research Nonprofit, published the report and hosted a press conference on Wednesday, April 19. The data used was collected from the N.C. Department of Transportation, the Federal Highway Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Another 26 percent of major roads in the Wilmington area are in mediocre condition, with the rest in fair or good condition. Statewide, about 10 percent of major roads are in poor condition and 23 percent are in mediocre condition.

Wilmington has a relatively low share of poor/structurally deficient bridges: 3 percent vs. 5-6 percent in other metro areas. Rocky Moretti, TRIP’s director of policy and research, was unable to comment during the press conference on the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge in particular, deferring to state and local transportation agencies.

Wilmington Chamber of Commerce CCE, President and CEO Natalie Haskins English provided a statement in TRIP’s online report.

“The Cape Fear Memorial Bridge (CFMB), which is beyond its 50-year lifespan, is a critical connection to the NC State Ports at Wilmington, to the workforce that commutes into Wilmington, and to the visitors that fuel our tourism economy. A replacement is our top infrastructure priority and is not included in the current State Transportation Improvement Program. We must identify additional funding to make it a reality,” English said.

Learn more: Residents, local officials speak on poor road conditions

The report found that, while drivers in the Wilmington area lose about 26 hours and $646 each year to congestion, drivers in other urban areas experienced similar or increased delays.

Traffic fatalities in the state continue to increase each year, from about 1,412 in 2017 to 1,627 in 2021. The NCDOT provided the following statement:

“While NCDOT does not typically comment on reports prepared outside of the department, we appreciate any discussions on ways to fund the future of transportation in North Carolina. NCDOT will continue to work with our partners to deliver safe and reliable transportation options for all who travel in our state.”

The press conference focused on a need to shift funding sources for road maintenance. While the NCDOT spent $656 million on road preservation in 2022, the department had recommended spending about $341 million more.

“The state’s long-term transportation funding sustainability is threatened by a significant increase in highway construction, inflation, and also by the increasing fuel efficiency of vehicles, and also the increasing adoption of electric vehicles, which is going to reduce the effectiveness of the state and federal motor fuel taxes in terms of raising revenue for transportation,” said Moretti, TRIP’s director of policy and research.

Moretti and NC Chamber President and CEO Gary Salamido both spoke on the need for new sources of transportation. The report cites efforts like N.C. HB 103 passed in 2022, which allocated state sales tax revenue to road and highway projects and is expected to provide $7.2 billion in highway funding in the next decade. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act signed in 2021 will also allow the N.C. Department of Transportation to increase its annual investment in road and bridge preservation by 17 and 22 percent respectively.

But as efforts continue to put more electric vehicles on the road, fuel taxes won’t be able to bear the weight of highway funding as they have in the past.

“Our transportation funding formula is heavily on our motor fuels tax. And as we all know, that’s gonna be dwindling over time. And so we have to continue to look for alternative ways to diversify our revenue sources to pay for these key transportation infrastructure investments,” said Salamido.

You can find the news release on the Wilmington area on the TRIP website, along with the full report.

Copyright 2023 WECT. All rights reserved.