🌱 Pedestrian Project Funding Approved + Possible City Social District

Hello, everybody! It's me, Lauren Kubiak, your host of the Patch newsletter. Here are all the things you need to know about what's happening in town today.

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: A gusty t-storm in the p.m. High: 89 Low: 72.
• Tuesday: A shower and t-storm; humid. High: 87 Low: 72.

Here are the top three stories today in Wilmington:

1. Wilmington City Council members unanimously approved additional funding for a long-awaited pedestrian improvement project that has been in the works for over a decade. The project, involving the construction of multi-use paths and intersection improvements, aims to enhance connectivity between the University of North Carolina Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach. Despite criticism and delays, the council's decision paves the way for construction to begin, with an estimated completion deadline set for October 2024. (Port City Daily)
2. The discussion surrounding "social districts" in Wilmington continues as city leaders consider implementing the policy in commercial areas. Following the examples of other cities in North Carolina, such as Raleigh and Greensboro, Wilmington is exploring the creation of designated districts where people can openly carry alcohol from one establishment to another. While some residents believe social districts would enhance the downtown atmosphere, concerns regarding underage drinking and enforcement need to be addressed before the pilot districts can be established. (WWAY NewsChannel 3)
3. According to Wilmington police, a former North Carolina hotel employee was arrested for allegedly committing financial crimes by accessing guests' credit card information. Kevin Jamar Wright, 37, faces charges including financial card fraud and identity theft. Travelers are advised to monitor their statements closely and use credit cards instead of debit cards when booking hotels to mitigate risks. (WMBF)

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Today and tomorrow in Wilmington:

Monday, June 26

• Live Music Yoga Featuring Julia Rothenberger At Terra Sol Sanctuary (6:00 PM)
• Open Mic Mondays At Barzarre (7:00 PM)

Tuesday, June 27

• Straight No Chaser At Greenfield Lake Amphitheater (6:00 PM)
• Weekly Tuesday Drum Gathering At Barzarre (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Railroad crossings on Wrightsville Avenue and South 17th Street and South 16th Street will be closed this week. Check out the link for exact dates and times for the closures. (WECT)
• New homes have been listed for sale in the Wilmington area! Get all the property details at the link. (Wilmington Patch)
• Are you looking for events to celebrate Independence Day in the area? Check out the link. (StarNewsOnline.com)

You're officially in the loop for today. See you all soon for another update!

— Lauren Kubiak

About me: Lauren is an Editor for Lightning Media Partners. She graduated from Rowan University with a Bachelor’s in journalism. She was previously a full-time editor at an association management firm, editing peer-reviewed nursing journals, textbooks, and newsletters.