Resilient Road Construction
As you stroll through the picturesque area of Rodanthe, North Carolina, you might notice some unusual sounds—metal clanging against asphalt and the beeping of construction machinery in reverse. These noises are part of an ongoing effort by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to bolster the resilience of N.C. 12, especially as it runs through the scenic Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge.
You see, N.C. 12 is more than just a road; it’s a crucial lifeline for both residents and visitors, connecting them to the beautiful Outer Banks. However, this stretch of highway is known as a trouble spot. Why? Well, the ocean is almost right at its doorstep, and during storms, there’s always the risk of water washing over the road, making travel difficult or even unsafe. Tim Hass, a communications officer for NCDOT Division One, explained that the dunes along the road act like a protective barrier that helps keep the ocean at bay.
Recently, you might have noticed road crews busy at work. On Monday, they briefly halted traffic to let construction vehicles drop and push up sand to reinforce the dunes. This timely intervention comes as high surf and winds are expected to linger around the Outer Banks throughout the week. Hass acknowledged how important it is to stay ahead of potential issues: “When the tide is at its peak, the surf can appear quite intimidating. But as the tide recedes, some of that sand washes away, and we need to keep rebuilding it.”
One concern for the NCDOT is the impact of over-wash: when sea water flows over the road during storms. While this is often manageable—simply requiring some maintenance to clear sand and water—problems occur when water seeps under the road, potentially damaging the pavement. Though this scenario doesn’t happen often, Hass is keeping close watch on several identified trouble spots, ensuring they can react swiftly if necessary.
One significant improvement, say many travelers, has been the opening of the new Rodanthe “Jug-Handle” Bridge in 2022. Previously, this area was a major hot spot for erosion and flooding. Thanks to the new bridge, the notorious S curves that used to cause headaches for drivers are now a thing of the past. Travelers can’t help but feel a sense of relief knowing that this bridge minimizes vulnerability to storm-related issues.
While some visitors express a hint of worry about the possibility of encountering over-wash, the sight of the NCDOT crews diligently working adds a layer of reassurance. With these dedicated efforts, they will continue to work on N.C. 12 until at least mid-week to maintain safe travel conditions. One key reminder from the crews? When venturing out during storms, it’s crucial to slow down. After all, safety is the priority!
In this beautiful coastal town, the community is banding together, adapting to the challenges brought about by nature. Knowing that teams are out there working tirelessly to protect those who travel N.C. 12 makes it easier to look forward to sunny days ahead—one wave at a time!
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