Major Bridge Replacement Project to Improve Outer Banks Access

Artist's rendering of the new state-of-the-art bridge replacing the Lindsay C. Warren Bridge.

News Summary

A $450 million project to replace the aging Lindsay C. Warren Bridge will begin soon, enhancing safety and traffic flow on crucial evacuation routes to the Outer Banks. The new structure aims to alleviate issues of reliability for residents and visitors, with completion anticipated by Fall 2029. Meanwhile, tragedy struck on the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge, highlighting the urgency for improved roadway safety.

Major Bridge Replacement Project Set to Transform Access to Outer Banks

Construction is set to begin imminently on a vital infrastructure project that aims to enhance the safety and reliability of one of North Carolina’s key transportation links. The replacement of the Lindsay C. Warren Bridge, frequently referred to as the Alligator River Bridge, is heralded as a critical step in bolstering the state’s hurricane evacuation routes. The bridge sits on U.S. 64, serving Tyrrell and Dare counties, and has been a lifeline for many traveling to and from the picturesque Outer Banks.

$450 Million Contract Awarded to Skanska USA

A contract worth a staggering $450 million has been awarded to the construction powerhouse Skanska USA, with approval from the North Carolina Board of Transportation after an extensive bidding process. The decision underscores the commitment to modernizing the state’s infrastructure, which is essential for both residents and tourists alike.

Old Meets New: What to Expect from the Replacement Bridge

The existing Lindsay C. Warren Bridge, now over 65 years old, was completed back in 1960. The upcoming project is set to replace this swing-span bridge with a state-of-the-art two-lane, fixed-span high-rise bridge, positioned just north of its predecessor. Designed with modern needs in mind, the new structure will feature two 12-foot travel lanes and 8-foot breakdown lanes to accommodate increasing traffic demands.

Funding and Timeline: A Roadmap Ahead

Funding for the bridge replacement includes a significant $110 million grant from the Federal Highway Administration, part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in 2021. Construction is slated to kick off in the coming weeks, with the initial phase focusing on driving bridge pilings, provided weather conditions permit. Other construction activities, such as clearing, will follow closely behind.

The new bridge is anticipated to open to traffic by fall 2029, while plans for the demolition of the current bridge are scheduled for spring 2030. Despite receiving a rating of “structurally deficient,” officials from the N.C. Department of Transportation have assured the public that the bridge remains safe, although ongoing maintenance is increasingly needed because of its age. This situation has led to decreased reliability for motorists and a compromise in connecting vital areas, including Columbia, Manns Harbor, Manteo, and the beloved Outer Banks.

Enhancing River Traffic and Accessibility

One of the significant benefits of the new bridge will be its improved capacity for river traffic, enabling the passage of over 4,000 boats that travel through the existing swing span annually. The project is part of broader efforts to enhance infrastructure and safety in the region, aiming to fortify the local economy and improve the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.

Tragedy Strikes on the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge

Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge has left the community mourning. A tragic collision occurred on a Thursday morning, resulting in the death of a 2-year-old child and leaving a man in critical condition. The crash involved two vehicles: a 1991 Mustang that was stationary in the far right-hand lane and a 2023 GMC Acadia that struck it from behind.

Details of the Incident: A Community in Shock

Following the collision, a fire erupted in the Mustang, leading to devastating consequences. The driver of the Mustang, who resides in Manns Harbor, reported that his young child was still inside the burning vehicle. Meanwhile, the driver of the Acadia, who hails from Columbia, North Carolina, suffered minor injuries but managed to assist the Mustang’s driver.

Authorities have stated that there appears to be no connection between the crash and either alcohol or speeding. However, charges have been filed against the driver of the Acadia, including failure to reduce speed and misdemeanor death. Investigators are currently pursuing additional evidence through dash cameras from nearby vehicles.

This tragic incident further underscores the importance of enhancing roadway safety measures, making the ongoing developments in bridge projects across the region even more crucial.