Good morning Wilmington!

Big week for Bitcoin believers wiht bullish news that crypto may soon be allowed in 401(k)s, Sheetz is offering 50% off with crypto payments, and new user bonuses from Kraken are making it easier than ever to get started. If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines, now is the time!

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• NCDOT to Begin Second Phase of Hampstead Bypass Construction

• Treasure Island Reuse Store Opens in Wilmington

NCDOT to Begin Second Phase of Hampstead Bypass Construction in Late 2025

[NCDOT] Construction on the Hampstead Bypass, a key part of U.S. 17 improvements in Pender and New Hanover counties, will enter its second phase in late 2025. The two-phase, $505 million NCDOT project aims to alleviate congestion and improve safety through the fast-growing Hampstead area. Segment A—from N.C. 140 to N.C. 210—will begin construction this fall, while Segment B—extending to north of Hampstead—wraps up by 2027. The bypass has been years in the making, with planning and environmental reviews dating back to 2011.

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Treasure Island Reuse Store Opens in Wilmington This Saturday

[NHC Gov] New Hanover County’s Recycling and Solid Waste department is launching Treasure Island, a monthly reuse program aimed at keeping usable items out of the landfill. Starting Saturday, Aug. 9, and continuing every second Saturday of the month, residents can visit the facility at 3002 Hwy 421 N to claim up to 15 free items per visit. All visitors must sign a liability waiver. The initiative reflects a growing trend in sustainable waste management by promoting reuse over disposal.

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News Roundup

Local News

• Burgaw Mayor Olivia Dawson highlighted major infrastructure projects and community growth during her State of the Town address, addressing concerns and maintaining transparency. WECT

• A Wilmington woman won a $100,000 lottery prize after buying her Ruby Red 7’s ticket from the Scotchman on Country Club Road in Hampstead WECT

• Independence Mall in Wilmington has been sold to a new ownership group, which plans to continue renovations and add new retail and dining options to attract more visitors. WECT

What You Should Know

• A federal judge has ordered a two-week halt to construction at Florida’s controversial “Alligator Alcatraz” migrant detention center in the Everglades while she reviews claims that it violates environmental laws. The temporary restraining order blocks new lighting, paving, excavation, fencing, or additional structures, though current detention operations continue. AP News

• Israel announced plans to take over Gaza City in an escalation of its 22-month war with Hamas, a move that has sparked fears for Palestinian civilians and Israeli hostages still in the territory.AP News

• Donald Trump is sending more federal agents to Washington, D.C. in response to what he calls an “out-of-control” youth crime wave, sparking debates over federal versus local control of policing. New York Post

What Might Surprise You

• Convenience store chain Sheetz is offering 50% off purchases paid with crypto via Flexa between 3 PM and 7 PM daily as part of its new “Crypto Crave & Save” promotion. The deal aims to encourage everyday cryptocurrency use, with Flexa instantly converting payments to fiat for merchants. Yahoo Finance

• Bitcoin prices jumped after Donald Trump announced plans to sign an order allowing cryptocurrencies in 401(k) retirement accounts, a major shift in federal investment policy. CNBC

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