Rodanthe, North Carolina: A New Bridge for the Outer Banks
Have you ever wondered how coastal towns like Rodanthe face the challenges posed by nature? Located in the picturesque Outer Banks of North Carolina, Rodanthe is about to undergo a significant transformation with the upcoming construction of the new Rodanthe Bridge. Set to open in late 2020 or early 2021, this well-planned structure aims to enhance travel safety while keeping the charm of the area intact.
Nature’s Fury
The Outer Banks are known for their breathtaking views, but they also face natural disasters like hurricanes and nor’easters that frequently batter the coastline. To get a sense of its perilous history, look no further than Cape Hatteras, which is sadly nicknamed the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.” Due to shifting sands and storm surges, many ships have met their fate here over several centuries.
For those traveling to Cape Hatteras, the only major roadway is N.C. Highway 12, a two-lane road that often succumbs to damages from the unpredictable weather. The stretch of road between Pea Island and Rodanthe has been a challenge, especially after storms like Hurricane Irene in 2011 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012 which wreaked havoc, severing the road entirely.
Building a Better Bridge
After years of repairs and temporary solutions, state engineers decided it was time for a more permanent fixture. The new $145 million Rodanthe Bridge will span a striking 2.4 miles, realigning N.C. 12 to elevate it over the sound and avoiding that tricky S-curve notorious to local drivers. The design not only caters to safety but also beautifully complements the natural landscape.
The bridge will carry traffic over the fragile wetlands of Pea Island while providing a direct route into the northern part of Rodanthe. With the elimination of those dodgy curves, the new bridge promises a smoother and safer experience for both tourists and residents alike!
A Closer Look at the Construction
The construction is being handled by Flatiron Construction, a well-respected firm partnered with RK&K. The project kicked off back in 2018, focusing on the tricky logistics of building a bridge in shallow water where traditional methods are difficult to implement. To tackle this issue, they’re using a unique rail system to move heavy equipment and materials efficiently across the construction site.
According to Pablo Hernandez, the NCDOT resident engineer overseeing the project, methods being used to erect the bridge revolve around innovation. Equipment is designed to run on two tracks parallel to the bridge, moving everything from concrete to piling into place. It’s a modern and efficient approach, ensuring that the bridge gets built with minimal disruption.
Future Prospects
Once the Rodanthe Bridge is completed, it will not only simplify travel but also mitigate the ongoing issues related to road damages caused by storms. With a new traffic roundabout planned at the bridge’s southern end, everything is on track to provide more accessible movement in the area. This new phase of construction represents not just an engineering feat but also a deep consideration for the community’s need for safety and reliability.
As we look forward to what the future holds for Rodanthe and its residents, it’s clear that this bridge symbolizes so much more than just a roadway. It’s a testament to resilience and a commitment to finding solutions to the challenges posed by nature.
Final Thoughts
The new Rodanthe Bridge is set to represent a new era for transportation within the Outer Banks. As construction moves into its next phases, excitement and anticipation are in the air. People can soon look forward to traveling safely along N.C. 12, without that pesky S-curve and the worries of unpredictable weather. Isn’t it great to watch progress unfold right before our eyes?
