Surf City Grapples with Water Service Disruptions and Bridge Congestion

Surf City faces water service issues with a boil water advisory and implements a temporary traffic signal to combat bridge congestion.

Surf City Grapples with Water Service Disruptions and Bridge Congestion

Surf City is currently navigating a dual challenge involving disruptions to its water service and significant traffic congestion, particularly around the Surf City Bridge. While water service has been restored to some affected areas, a precautionary boil water advisory remains in effect. Simultaneously, the town is implementing a temporary traffic signal to study and potentially alleviate persistent traffic jams.

Water Service Restoration and Advisory

Residents in Surf City experienced an unexpected water service outage early Tuesday, May 4th. The disruption primarily impacted areas between Roland Avenue and the Topsail Beach town line. While water service has since been restored to these specific locations, a precautionary boil water advisory has been issued. This advisory is expected to remain in place until 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6th. Residents are advised that water may appear discolored, though this is expected to clear within a few hours for most of the island.

Temporary Traffic Signal Pilot Project

To address ongoing traffic congestion, especially near the island roundabout, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has installed a temporary traffic signal on the Surf City Bridge. This pilot project, a collaborative effort between the NCDOT and the Town of Surf City, began on May 6th. The signal is intended to improve the flow of vehicles already on the island and is designed to be active during daytime hours. The NCDOT will monitor the traffic impact of the signal, which is scheduled to remain in place for a minimum of two weeks, with the possibility of extension if positive results are observed. Pedestrian walkways within the island roundabout are temporarily closed, and pedestrians are directed to follow posted detour routes.

Key Takeaways

  • Water service has been restored to some Surf City residents following an outage.
  • A precautionary boil water advisory is in effect until Wednesday, May 6th, for affected areas.
  • A temporary traffic signal has been installed on the Surf City Bridge to study and mitigate congestion.
  • The traffic signal pilot project is a joint initiative between the NCDOT and the Town of Surf City.
  • Pedestrian access within the island roundabout is temporarily restricted, with detours in place.

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