Session 5 - Infrastructure

Session 5 of the Leadership Wilmington Class of 2026 offered a full day focused on the infrastructure systems that support and sustain our region’s growth.

We began the morning with transportation and planning insights from the Wilmington Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, gaining a deeper understanding of how data, collaboration, and long-range planning shape the future of our community. That carried into a discussion on the statewide impact of the North Carolina State Ports Authority, followed by an on-the-ground terminal tour led by fellow class member Elly Kane, whose perspective helped bring global commerce into a very local lens.
Back at the Chamber, we heard updates on the City of Wilmington’s Capital Improvement Projects, highlighting strategic investments designed to meet long-term community needs. This was followed by remarks from Mark Hairr, fellow class member and Executive Director of WAVE Transit, who shared how public transportation plays a critical role in mobility, access, and workforce connectivity across our region.
In the afternoon, we were provided updates on the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge and broader infrastructure advocacy efforts, offering insight into the collaboration required to move major regional priorities forward. We also received a crash course in project management from Stephen White (Leadership Wilmington Class of 2025) as our class prepares for the 20th Annual Work on Wilmington event on April 18. Opportunities are still available for those interested in sponsoring or volunteering to help make this year’s WOW a success. See here for more details!
The day concluded with an in-depth tour of Wilmington International Airport, showcasing recent improvements, future expansion plans, and the coordination required to accommodate growing passenger demand while maintaining safety and efficiency. We also got a behind the scenes view of airport operations courtesy of fellow class member, Matthew Johnson. Lastly, we stopped by for a tour at the CFPUA Northside Wastewater Treatment Plant, a powerful reminder of the essential, often unseen infrastructure protecting public health and environmental quality.
On behalf of the LW Class of 2026, thank you to all the speakers for today’s session. We truly appreciate your time and the valuable insight provided. We look forward to next month’s session centered around Business Growth & Development.