CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. -- The project to replace the Onslow Beach Bridge is complete and is scheduled to open to traffic at 1 p.m. on March 17. The single-leaf bascule bridge will replace the 72-year-old swing bridge that currently links Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune to Onslow Beach and provides improved navigation and design resiliency.
The $62 million bridge replacement project was accelerated due to damage caused during Hurricane Florence in September 2018, and the age of the previous bridge.
The new bridge design was chosen for its quick operation and ability to provide unencumbered channel clearance for mariners. Unlike a swing bridge, which pivots on a central point in the waterway, the bascule bridge lifts vertically.
The new bridge offers two 11-foot lanes with three-foot shoulders for vehicle traffic and can support a range of tactical vehicles. The bridge also features a six-foot wide sidewalk that accommodates foot traffic between the mainland and Onslow Beach.
For mariners, the bridge has a horizontal clearance of 90 feet and a vertical clearance of 16.7 feet when closed--an increase of five feet from the old structure. When open, the new bridge provides 65 feet of clearance.
At this time, the bridge is scheduled to be raised every hour to accommodate boats exceeding the 16.7 height limit. Mariners can contact the bridge tender using VHF Channel 13 or by calling 910-440-7376 to request opening well in advance of their arrival.
Following the opening of the new bridge, the old swing bridge will be demolished according to a detailed plan with environmental protection measures in place. Short term channel closures will be in effect through June 30. All mariners should read the Local Notices to Mariners posted here: https://www.navcen.uscg.gov/local-notices-to-mariners?district=5+0&subdistrict=n.
For photos and b-roll of the new Onslow Beach bridge, please visit:
The control room and operations tower for the new Onslow Beach Bridge, scheduled to open March 17, stands ready as contractors complete final checks at Onslow Beach, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, March 16, 2026. After four years of development, the new single-leaf bascule bridge will replace the 72-year-old swing bridge that currently links MCB Camp Lejeune and Onslow Beach. This project highlights Marine Corps Installations East's commitment to modernizing its infrastructure and ensuring long-term operational readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Erica S. Padgett)