Ships and Shore

Good Morning, Brunswick County Friends!

In today’s LLLLeland:

• Four Shipwrecks Discovered in Brunswick County

• Oak Island Beach Renourishment Project Awarded Funds

• Town of Leland Approves First Integrated Mobility Plan to Shape Future Transportation

THE NEWS

Four Shipwrecks Discovered in Brunswick County

Archaeologists from East Carolina University (ECU) have discovered four shipwrecks and several colonial waterfront structures at Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site in Brunswick County. One shipwreck may be La Fortuna, a Spanish privateer that exploded near Brunswick Town in 1748. Timber samples from the site suggest the ships were built using wood from Spanish Caribbean colonies.

The team also uncovered two timber-crib wharves, a marsh causeway, and other artifacts. Three of the shipwrecks appear to have been used for land reclamation or were colonial flatboats, while the fourth is still being identified. Erosion from dredging and storms is threatening these sites, prompting emergency recovery efforts. Over 40 shipwreck timbers were salvaged and sent to ECU’s Queen Anne’s Revenge Conservation Lab for preservation.

Dr. Jason Raupp, who led the project, emphasized the significance of these discoveries for understanding North Carolina’s early colonial port history and the importance of collaborative conservation efforts. (WECT)

Oak Island Beach Renourishment Project Awarded Funds

The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality is awarding over $9.39 million from the Coastal Storm Damage Mitigation Fund to five coastal projects focused on beach and dune restoration. Funded projects include beach nourishment efforts in Buxton, Oak Island, and Avon, as well as a design plan for Bogue Banks and a beach management plan for Currituck County. Local governments will contribute over \$44 million in matching funds.

The projects aim to protect coastal communities, enhance storm resilience, and preserve natural resources vital to local economies. Officials emphasized the environmental and economic importance of these efforts. The fund, established in 2023, supports projects that reduce storm impacts through beach and dune restoration. (WWAY)

Town of Leland Approves First Integrated Mobility Plan to Shape Future Transportation

The Leland Town Council has adopted its first Integrated Mobility Plan (IMP), a 25-year comprehensive transportation strategy aimed at improving connectivity, roadway infrastructure, open spaces, and preserving natural areas. The plan includes 150 projects, with 85 marked as high priority, particularly in the Gateway District. Project selection was based on existing plans and extensive community input through public events and surveys. The IMP will be reviewed every five years to align with community needs and secure grant funding. Mayor Brenda Bozeman emphasized the plan’s importance in ensuring Leland remains a safe and inclusive community. (WWAY)

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Free Tasting Event Tomorrow Night at BBX

Brunswick Beer XChange - BBX-Bottle Shoppe, located at 113 Village Rd, Leland, NC 28451, is hosting a tasting event featuring Little Trees Sparkling Waters tomorrow night at 6:00 pm. Little Trees introduces a refreshing blend of sparkling water, fruity aromas, and light flavors infused with a hemp-derived THC boost, offering an elevated experience without hangovers or empty calories. Guests can enjoy the uplifting effects of cannabis in a flavorful and fun way, embracing the motto that the best view is from High among the Trees. Following the tasting, attendees are invited to stay for trivia at 7 p.m. and enjoy food from the Coastal523 food truck. The event is open to the public.

Carolina Shag Dancing Tomorrow at Gio Fund

The Gio Fund, located at 117 Village Rd NE, Unit G, Leland, NC 28451, invites everyone to join them every Thursday at 5 p.m. for a lively evening of Carolina Shag Dancing. Whether a beginner or an experienced dancer, single or with a partner, participants will find dance moves suited for all skill levels. There is no cover charge for the event. The bar opens at 5 p.m., and the kitchen is now open, making it a perfect spot for a fun and casual night out. This event is open to the public.

Do you have an event? Reach out to us! [email protected]

WEATHER

Wednesday

81 🌡️ 70 | 🌧️ | 75% | 🌬️ ENE 8 mph | Humidity 85%

Thursday

79 🌡️ 70 | 🌧️ | 55% | 🌬️ NNE 9 mph | Humidity 88%

Thank you for taking the time to read this issue of Live, Laugh, Love Leland!

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See you tomorrow!