Pender County has received competitive state grants that will advance critical infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and long-term resilience throughout the county.
Among the awarded funds is a $4.6 million contract from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) for road improvements along one section of U.S. 421 and two sections of secondary roads. The contract was awarded to S.T. Wooten Corporation. Construction is expected to begin as early as late summer and will be completed by the end of 2026. These road upgrades will improve safety, efficiency, and connectivity across the county.
The Department of Natural and Cultural Resources awarded Pender County and the East Coast Greenway Alliance $177,200 for the development of a multi-use path (MUP) along Country Club Drive and the NC-210 corridor. This project supports active transportation and enhances recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.
In addition, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) awarded $1.4 million to Carolina Water Service, Inc. for the Olde Point Iron and Manganese Filtration project. This funding through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) will improve water quality and strengthen public health protection.
Pender County also received an $85,000 Resilient Coastal Communities Program (RCCP) grant through NCDEQ’s Division of Coastal Management. This funding supports Phases 1 and 2 of technical assistance focused on risk assessment and long-term resilience planning. The work will inform future updates to the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Land Use Plans and ensure resiliency is a central component of county growth.
Additionally, the Town of Burgaw was awarded $181,687 to construct a rain garden on East Wilmington Street. The project features nature-based stormwater solutions designed to mitigate flooding and promote environmental stewardship within the community.
Pender County’s dedication to securing state resources reflects an ongoing commitment to strengthening infrastructure, protecting natural assets, and preparing for the future.