WILMINGTON, N.C. -- Some Wilmington businesses are concerned that development plans to replace part of Independence Mall could create a traffic nightmare in the area.

  • Possible 700 apartments and hotel being added
  • City planning a traffic impact analysis
  • Also looking at what can be done to ease congestion

The spot already sees congestion and the possible addition of 700 apartments and a hotel could make it worse. That’s why the city is planning a traffic impact analysis, as well as looking at what can be done to ease congestion.

"For that project in particular we would be looking at additional turn lanes, lengthening turn lanes, different signal timings so the signals can be timed differently. Also, the NCDOT is looking at multiple projects in the region that will help mobility across the region. The extension of Independence Boulevard and then there are five different overpass projects," said engineer Amy Kimes.

For more information about future projects and to provide input, click here.