How to Use Surf City's New Roundabouts
It may look a little confusing at first. But, oh, what a view from our new high rise bridge!
The End of an Era
After 60 years, the iconic Surf City Swing Bridge has been retired. You might miss the welcoming rumble as you crossed onto the island, but open your mind, and your eyes, and take in the glorious new view as your cross over the new Surf City high-rise bridge.
Construction began in September of 2016 and finished 10 months ahead of schedule. On December 4th, 2018, the new Surf City high-rise bridge opened to the public with overall positive reviews.
According to the NCDOT, the new bridge has a 65-foot vertical clearance that will not need to open for vessels in the waterway, eliminating vehicle and vessel traffic delays from the bridge opening and closing.
The addition of the new bridge means new traffic patterns as well. Roundabouts have been placed at both ends of the new bridge to ensure a continuous flow of traffic. No more waiting for the bridge to open and close. Signage has been placed along the bridge way to remind oncoming traffic of the impending roundabout and traffic patterns.
Who has the Right of Way?
The new bridge incorporated a fabulous multi-use lane for cyclists and pedestrians. Understanding the right of ways for not only automobiles but for cyclists and pedestrians as well will be very important. We expect many vacationers to incorporate walking or biking across the new bridge into their visit.
Surf City Mainland - Base of Bridge
Driving through Surf City, you will encounter the first roundabout at the base of the bridge. This one is very simple.
From mainland onto Topsail Island: keep right and take 2nd exit onto the bridge
From Topsail Island back to mainland: keep right as you exit the bridge and take 2nd exit into Surf City
Surf City Island - Base of Bridge
As you come to the end of the bridge, you may either go North or South.
To Surf City North or North Topsail Beach: Stay in Left lane as you enter roundabout and take 2nd exit; head North or take side streets within Surf City
To Surf City South or Topsail Beach: Stay in Right lane as you enter roundabout and keep right onto Topsail Drive; head South to Topsail Beach or take side streets within Surf City
Leaving the Island or On-Island Travel
We know, why would anyone leave the island once they've arrived? Well, if you need to head to a larger grocercy store, do some shopping, or try one of our fabulous mainland restaurants, you'll eventually need to head back over the bridge. At the very least, on that sad day it's time to return home.
You may also be visiting other areas of Topsail Island for some shopping or dining.
Coming From the North
If you are coming from North Topsail Beach or the North end of Surf City, here are some tips.
To go over the bridge: Cross over Roland Ave, stay right and exit onto the bridge
To go South to Surf City South or Topsail Beach: Stay left and enter roundabout, cross traffic and take exit heading South
Coming From the South
If you are coming fromTopsail Beach or the South end of Surf City, here are some tips.
To go over the bridge: Enter roundabout and stay Left, taking 2nd exit onto the Bridge
To go North to North Topsail Beach or Surf City North, or to Roland Ave: Stay Right and enter roundabout, and take first exit heading either North or turning onto Roland Ave
Understanding Roundabout's
It is important to understand the rules of a roundabout and to be cautious of those adjusting to the new patterns. Included below, is the official brochure from the North Carolina Department of Transportation detailing the correct way to yield and proceed through a roundabout.
Read all about it!
Enjoy this animated overview
Get a real time feel for driving over the bridge and navigating the new roundabouts in Surf City and on Topsail Island.
We look forward to seeing you.
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Show them that the new roundabouts in Surf City are no big deal.
