Wilmington city leaders discussing transportation, PFAS concerns in Washington, DC – WWAYTV3

WASHINGTON, DC (WWAY) –Leaders within the Metropolis of Wilmington are in Washington, DC this week for the Nationwide League of Cities.

Mayor Invoice Saffo, Mayor Professional Tem Margaret Haynes, and Councilman Clifford Barnett are all participating within the convention.

Their agenda consists of transportation and infrastructure, an ongoing response to PFAS considerations, the opioid epidemic, and psychological well being remedy providers.

The mayor says they’re studying extra about President Biden’s infrastructure plan and the way Southeastern North Carolina may benefit from it. For instance, the way it may assist assist the alternative of the Cape Concern Memorial Bridge.

“We’ll be asking or speaking to the US Division of Transportation in addition to our elected delegation up right here is federal matching grants that we may apply for in that transportation infrastructure invoice that was handed not too way back about how we may get hold of funding for this bridge presumably utilizing federal cash versus going by a tolling authority,” Saffo mentioned.

They’re additionally wanting into how the invoice may assist fund the elevating of Interstates 40 and 95 in an effort to stop the foremost roadways from flooding throughout hurricanes.

“It’s a significant artery into Southeastern North Carolina and quite a lot of sources and assist are available in by that freeway to be blocked off from the world for 4 days is simply…it’s unacceptable,” Saffo mentioned.

Along with transportation infrastructure, they’re speaking PFAS. Saffo says they’re advocating for extra analysis into the impacts of the chemical substances, in addition to securing extra funding so different communities can entry clear consuming water.

“I believe not solely in Wilmington and New Hanover County and the encompassing areas however across the nation to see what we will do to get further funding for infrastructure enhancements not just for Wilmington however the surrounding areas so it’s going to be an ongoing battle for fairly a while,” Saffo mentioned. “As I mentioned, the polluters are those that must pay for this.”