WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Drivers can't seem to avoid the Kenan Fountain in downtown Wilmington, and now, the North Carolina Department of Transportation could be aiding in the effort to enhance the intersection at Fifth and Market.

A study by the states Department of Transportation shows 71 accidents have happened around the fountain since April 2008. Only 19 of them involved a driver directly damaging the fountain, with all but one of them happening at night 

Wilmington City leaders approved more than $8,000 earlier this year to add extra lights to the intersection. Now, the DOT is making some suggestions of its own.

DOT reps are expected to present their findings to the Wilmington MPO, along with plans for new lights, signs and lane markers.

Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo said he welcomes any effort to protect the Kenan Fountain and secure the busy intersection. He said he doesn't mind making more changes.

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) – Drivers in Wilmington should steer clear of Cape Fear Public Utility Authority crews downtown Thursday as crews inspect and clean sewer lines.

According to officials, workers are inspecting and cleaning sewer lines in an eight mile block in that neighborhood.

Spokesperson Mike McGill says they'll be using a small line with a camera to give them a better idea of any problems with blockage or cracks. They'll video 200 feet at once  then clean 50 feet at a time.

McGill says it allows them to proactively fix problems before they happen and they can note any problem areas that would need long-term repairs.

Workers will be on N. 16^th Street between Chestnut and Rankin Streets and on Grace Street between N. 15^th and N. 17^th Streets from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) – According to the city’s website, Cardinal Drive between Market Street and Eastwood Road will be closed until Thursday April, 18th.

City Crews are installing drainage pipes under the road.

This closure has been in place since April 8th. Officials had to extend the closure this week due to the rainy weather.

The website also states, residents of Long Leaf Acres and Inland Greens will have access to their property either from Market Street or Eastwood Road all week. The storm water improvements will connect with the drainage system adjacent to the Port City Community Church and help alleviate flooding in the Inland Greens neighborhood. 

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