State Department of Transportation officials on Jan. 5 outlined plans to widen the Walker Street/Wilmington Street intersection in Burgaw (project R‑5701) to improve large‑truck turning radii and pedestrian access. Trevor Carroll, NCDOT division engineer for Division 3, and Ben Socks (right‑of‑way manager) described parcels the department needs from county property, including a portion of Courthouse Square and a sliver near the jail annex for permanent right‑of‑way and temporary construction easements.

Carroll said the design reduces footprint versus a previously considered roundabout while maintaining traffic efficiency, and that NCDOT has vetted historic properties and will minimize tree trimming with protections where feasible. Key milestones provided to the board included a resumption of right‑of‑way acquisition in June 2025, utility relocation beginning in February 2026, anticipated right‑of‑way acquisition completion by December 2026, and project completion in October 2028.

Commissioners asked detailed questions about historic‑property involvement and curb types; NCDOT said the design calls for stand‑up curb with templates that permit safe turning of tractor‑trailers and included a “do not disturb” notation to protect a recently installed sign. The board approved the disposition of county property and authorized staff to execute documentation conveying the parcels and temporary easements to NCDOT by voice vote.