The new bridge over Oregon Inlet could open at any time, but the formal grand opening ceremony will take place this spring.
Gov. Cooper and other dignitaries are scheduled to gather for the dedication of the replacement for the Bonner Bridge on Tuesday April 2.
Traffic is expected to shift to the new span as soon as final lane markings are painted.
The name of the 2.8 mile long bridge will be finalized at next month’s state Transportation Board meeting. A committee has recommended naming it for former state Sen. Marc Basnight.
The old bridge will be demolished, except 1,000 feet of the southern end that will become a public fishing pier and would retain the moniker from late-Congressman Herbert C. Bonner.
