Town presents West Side multi‑use path concept; retaining wall and topography cited as major constraints

Town staff presented a concept to extend the West Side multi‑use path to close a gap from Carolus Drive through to West Soundside Road, showing an aerial overview of alignment options and the primary engineering and permitting constraints.

Presenter David explained that the site contains an existing drainage ditch network, underground utilities and steep topographic changes near Jockey's Ridge State Park. “We'd be looking at approximately about 1000 feet of retaining wall in length, starting at about 4 foot high as an exposed height, and maybe even increasing as much as 8 feet in height,” he said, describing potential grading and the need for openings to maintain pedestrian passages.

Staff noted alternatives — a reduced path width in constrained areas, curb/gutter separation, or negotiating a 3‑foot setback behind curb where feasible — and said they are coordinating with the North Carolina Department of Transportation and Jockey's Ridge State Park on alignment and permitting needs. With further design refinement and permitting, the town hopes to advertise for bids and begin construction this fall if permits and funding align.

Board members requested more realistic renderings of the final configuration during later design stages to better evaluate visual impacts and retaining‑wall treatments. Staff said they would continue coordination with permitting agencies and provide refined renderings as the design advances.