State transportation officials are working to permanently fix N.C. Highway 12 in Dare County. NCDOT officials say they are in the process of hiring a contractor to build a permanent bridge that will resist future washouts.
Currently, a temporary metal bridge links where the roadway was destroyed by Hurricane Irene last year.
Secretary Tony Tata said in an agency release that the project will be an important step in offering a reliable route to the Outer Banks for businesses, residents and visitors.
The Federal Highway Administration signed off on the project which calls for an elevated roadway starting just north of where the temporary bridge sits extending two miles south. The project was advertised to contractors Wednesday. NCDOT plans to award the job in December. Construction could begin as early as next January if the proper funding and permits are received.
