Cape Fear Navigating Change 2050 is the Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) which will be the plan used by federal, state, and local governments to guide transportation projects in our region over the next 25 years. The plan includes an evaluation of potential aviation, bicycle and pedestrian, ferry and water transportation, rail, public transportation, and roadway projects to meet the needs of the region.
We’re now in Phase II of Public Outreach for the MTP and your voice matters! Help shape the future of transportation in our region by reviewing the draft and providing valuable feedback. Click below to explore the plan and add your input through our comment form and engagement opportunities.
What is an MTP?
An MTP, or Metropolitan Transportation Plan, is a plan produced by MPOs (Metropolitan Planning Organizations) which identifies the region’s transportation needs. In 2025, Cape Fear Navigating Change 2050 will replace the current plan, Cape Fear Moving Forward 2045.
Federal law requires a Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) that is:
- Multi-modal (6 transportation modes)
- Fiscally constrained
- Has a minimum 20-year planning horizon (WMPO planning horizon is 25 years) and is updated every 5 years
- Adheres to the adopted public involvement policy
- Created using growth forecasts consistent with the latest local land use plans
Projects included in the MTP have been recognized as a regional priority that has potential funding. This can be a critical step towards a project being included in the TIP and then constructed.
MTP Project Timeline
Phase I of public outreach for the 2050 MTP began in August 2023 and concluded in November 2023. Phase II of public outreach began in June 2025, when the draft plan will be released for public comment, with plan adoption expected in November 2025.
Public Comment Opportunities
The WMPO will seven public comment opportunities throughout June to collect feedback for the plan:
- WMPO Office | June 11, 5-7p | 525 N. Fourth Street
- Hampstead Alive After Five | June 13, 6-8p | 586 Sloop Point Loop Road, Hampstead
- Leland Hurricane Expo| June 14, 10a-2p | 1212 Magnolia Village Way, Leland
- Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market | June 16, 8a-1p | WB Municipal Grounds – 321 Causeway Dr.
- Virtual Session | Online, 11a-1p
- Carolina Beach Farmers Market | June 21, 8a-1p | CB Lake Park – Atlanta Ave. & Lake Park Blvd.
- NHC/WFD FIRES | June 26, 11a – 3p | Maides Park – 1101 Manly Avenue
How to provide your input
Members of the public can provide input through an online form, attend outreach events, or find comment cards at local libraries and member jurisdiction planning offices.
The WMPO is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request accommodation, please contact us at least 48 hours in advance at 910-341-3258 or wmpo@wilmingtonnc.gov.
MTP Cover Photo Contest
For the first time, we’re inviting the public to be a part of the plan in a whole new way with the inaugural MTP Cover Photo Contest! This is your chance to have your photography featured on the cover of the final plan with recognition in the document and social media. We’re looking for original photos that capture the people, places, and movement that define transportation in our region.
The contest is open May 28 through June 27, 2025, and selected photographers will be recognized and receive WMPO-branded swag. Learn more and submit your photo!