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Good morning, folks! August is here, and so are the latest city updates. From facility re-openings to construction updates, here’s what you need to know. The Fit for Fun Center is welcoming kiddos back on Wednesday, Aug. 6, with plenty of crawling, climbing, and creative play on brand-new flooring. Applications for the MLK Center’s community kitchen will be available soon — a great chance for aspiring chefs to sharpen their skills. And if you drive through River Road, heads up — we’ve got the latest on the roundabout project and what to expect as construction picks up. Let’s dive in!
 FIT FOR FUN CENTER IS REOPENING THIS WEEK
The wait is over! The Fit for Fun Center is reopening on Wednesday, Aug. 6 — now with brand-new flooring throughout the entire facility! We’ve replaced the original 25-year-old floors to create a safer, cleaner, and even more playful space for little ones to crawl, explore, and make memories. All memberships and passes have been extended to cover the closure. We can’t wait to see you back at the center!
 THINKING ABOUT COOKING UP SOMETHING NEW?
Do you have a passion for cooking and a desire to hone your skills? The brand-new commercial kitchen at the MLK Community Center is ready — and we’re now accepting applications starting Aug. 21! Whether you're dreaming of launching a food business, teaching cooking classes, or just want to sharpen your culinary technique, this space is for you. We’re here to help you take your cooking to the next level. Apply starting Thursday, Aug. 21 and take the first step toward something delicious.
 RIVER ROAD ROUNDABOUT UPDATE
Construction on a new roundabout at the intersection of River Road and Independence Boulevard began in early July. Starting the morning of Sunday, Aug. 18, River Road will close between Coleman Drive and Independence Boulevard to allow the project to move into its next phase. The closure will remain in place for the duration of the six-month project.
During this time, southbound traffic on River Road will be detoured to Carolina Beach Road via Raleigh Street and Sunnyvale Drive. Traffic will still be able to move through the intersection in the following ways:
- Northbound River Road traffic can turn right onto Independence Boulevard toward Carolina Beach Road
- Southbound Independence Boulevard traffic can turn left onto River Road toward Riverlights
Beginning Wednesday, Aug. 6, digital message boards will be placed along the route to alert drivers of the closures to come.
The new single-lane roundabout — similar to those already in Riverlights — is designed to improve safety and traffic flow in this busy corridor. The $2.42 million project is a joint effort between the City of Wilmington, Riverlights, and Proximity Watermark Development.
 YOUR INPUT IS NEEDED — HELP US PLAN FOR THE FUTURE
What do hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other natural disasters have in common? We’re planning for all of them and your input matters. The City and our regional partners are teaming up with NC Emergency Management to update the Southeastern NC Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan — a FEMA-required effort that helps secure federal dollars to keep our communities safe and prepared. As part of this update, we’re asking for your feedback through a short public survey. It’s a simple but powerful way to help shape how our region prepares for future disasters. A local consultant will also hold the first virtual meeting about the updated plan on Monday, Aug. 18, at 6 p.m. Please register here!
 DVR ALERT 
Back in March, The Great Food Truck Race rolled into Wilmington to film its tasty competition, and now that episode is ready to be served. The Food Network series, hosted by chef Tyler Florence, filmed scenes at downtown's Slice of Life, Wilmington Brewing Company, Waterman’s Brewing, and the Wilmington Convention Center during its three-day stop. Catch the Wilmington-centric episode Sunday, Aug. 17, at 10 p.m. on Food Network.
 ANIMAL AMBASSADOR FEEDING
One of our most unique programs is back this week at Halyburton Park! Join our Parks folks on Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 4 p.m. and meet some of the famous ambassador animals that call Halyburton home. Learn how they live both in the wild and at the Nature Center while they enjoy a reptile-ready meal! Each program will feature a snake and a box turtle.
Details:
💵 $2 per participant
👶 Ages 3+
📍 4099 S. 17th Street
 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, Aug. 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. as the Wilmington Police Department hosts National Night Out at The Pointe 14. This free, family-friendly event is a great way to connect with local officers and enjoy an evening of community fun. Stop by for music, giveaways, and a chance to check out patrol vehicles, meet the K-9 and Mounted Units, and chat with the officers who serve our neighborhoods. We’ll see you there!
ARE YOU PREPARED?
As we approach the peak of hurricane season, now’s the time to double-check your emergency plans. Make sure your hurricane kit is stocked, your important documents are secure, and you know your evacuation zone. A little preparation now can make a big difference later. Need a refresher? Visit ready.gov/hurricanes for tips and checklists.
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS VACANCIES
We always encourage our residents to be active in their local government by periodically checking out what seats are currently open on city boards, commissions, or committees. For the latest vacancies, please click here!
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