The following letter was received by one of our members.
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
| MICHAEL F. EASLEY GOVERNOR |
1501 MAIL SERVICE CENTER, RALEIGH, N.C. 27699-1501 |
LYNDO TIPPETT SECRETARY |
March 7, 2005
Dear
Thank you for your e-mail concerning the Herbert C. Bonner Bridge replacement project and access to the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. I appreciate the residents of Dare County sharing their concerns and ideas for this project (TIP Project Number B-2500).
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is studying two options in the Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (SDEIS) for replacing the existing bridge. One option replaces the existing structure just west of its current location and ties into Hatteras Island close to the existing bridge. This option includes studying methods to stabilize NC 12 between the proposed Bonner Bridge replacement and Rodanthe. Sections of NC 12 north of Rodanthe are at risk because of beach erosion and seasonal storms. A project that ends the bridge replacement at the north end of Hatteras Island must include a plan and costs to stabilize NC 12 over the life span of the replacement bridge.
The second option would replace the existing structure with a 17-mile long bridge that extends from Bodie Island to Rodanthe. The US Fish and Wildlife Service indicated they intend to maintain access to the Pea Island Refuge. Under this option, it is the Department’s intent to maintain NC 12 and not abandon our easement until the US Fish and Wildlife Service implements their own access program.
We anticipate completion of the SDEIS by fall 2005. Department staff will then have enough information to make a decision between the options under consideration.
Your name will be added to the mailing list to receive further newsletters or notifications of hearings and workshops. For additional project information, visit the Outer Banks Task Force web site at www.obtf.org select "Special Concerns" and then "Bonner Bridge." Additional comments and questions may be directed to the toll‑free project information line at (866) 803-0529, or you may contact Project Engineer John Conforti at (919) 733-7844 ext. 208.
Sincerely,
Lyndo Tippett
LT/jc
cc: Stan White, Board of Transportation Member
PHONE 919-733-2520 FAX 919-733-9150