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Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Submit an Application to the Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization’s Locally Administered Projects Program in the Amount of $51,424 for a Trail Signage Pilot Project
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Department: |
Parks & Recreation |
Meeting Date: |
9/9/2025 |
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Contact Name: |
Amy Beatty |
Public Hearing: |
No |
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Contact Phone: |
910-341-5838 |
Advertising Date/Advertised By: |
N/A |
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Attachments: |
Attachment #1: Resolution |
PURPOSE:
The purpose of this resolution to authorize the City Manager to apply for grant funding to design, purchase and install trail signage on portions of the Gary Shell Cross City Trail. This project is a pilot implementation of the Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (“WMPO”) Regional Trail Signage Program, with a focus on etiquette and safety.
BACKGROUND:
On July 7, 2025, the WMPO issued the FY26-30 call for projects to agencies in its jurisdiction for the Locally Administered Projects Program. A twenty percent (20%) local cash match is required to be eligible to receive funding. The twenty percent (20%) local cash match funding is identified in the FY25 Capital Improvement Program.
The WMPO is developing Regional Trail Signage Program to promote consistency among member jurisdictions, and to enhance public awareness of trail etiquette and safety. If awarded, the City of Wilmington will serve as the first demonstration site, showcasing the visual impact and community benefits of the proposed signage system. The WMPO team is conducting research and benchmarking best practices from other trail systems to inform its signage recommendations.
The project will focus on existing trail-roadway crossing intersections based on accident data, and segments of the Cross City Trail along Eastwood Rd. and College Rd., as funding allows. Preliminary estimates suggest that up to 100 permanent and temporary signs could be installed. Final quantities and costs will be determined during the design phase.
WMPO staff introduced the program to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee meeting on August 12, 2025, receiving positive feedback. They also presented to the program to the City of Wilmington Pedestrian and Bicycle Improvements Committee on August 15, 2025, and the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board meeting on August 20, 2025, with both bodies voting unanimously to support the grant application.
This initiative aligns with several adopted planning documents and strategic goals, including:
• 2023 Walk Wilmington Plan
• Wilmington-New Hanover County Comprehensive Greenway Plan 2014
• The Strategic Plan Create a Thriving Inclusive & Affordable Community of Neighborhoods Objective 2: Foster vibrant neighborhoods that connect existing and future residents to the places where people work, live, and play- Connect communities with pathway facilities that promote open space and community activities.
BUDGET IMPACT:
$12,856 in matching funds are identified in the FY25 Capital Improvement Program fund.
RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
Staff recommends authorizing the City Manager to apply for $51,424 in Surface Transportation Block Grant Program-Direct Attributable (“STBGP-DA”) funding from the WMPO for the Trail Signage Pilot Project with a total project cost of $64,280.