Not sure if this is related ....
.. to the fact that I was interviewed at a local office.
After browsing through a few immigration related websites, it seems that this is an indication that a card order has been placed with the concerned authorities. However, this I181 is supposed to be an internal document copies of which are sent to the CIA for approval/clearance.
BTW, this document has an SRC number as well. The current status reads like this
"On March 1, 2004, after approving your application, we ordered you a new card. Your card will be mailed to you as soon as it is ready."
Jaysee