UPDATE ON OREGON INLET BRIDGE REPLACEMENT
The proposed new bridge over Oregon Inlet appeared to move one step closer to becoming a reality last week. According to an article in The Virginian-Pilot newspaper, a recent updated environmental assessment of the project included two new options. One alternative was a bridge through Rodanthe; the other terminated south of the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge. Prior proposals included various combinations of a short bridge, relocation of Highway 12, beach nourishment, and a long bridge west of Oregon Inlet.
Cost seems to be the major consideration in the project. Estimates for the various options vary from $602 million to $1.3 billion. The price of constructing the 17.5 mile long bridge appears to be beyond the state budget since no federal money would reportedly be available. The other major issue is the potential environmental impact on Pea Island of the short bridge option and the associated construction adjustments that would be necessary. Some members of the scientific community have expressed concern that decisions are being made without enough emphasis on the “science” of the project. There has also been apprehension that, if constructed, the long bridge might ultimately lead to the loss of access to Pea Island. Dare County supports the short bridge alternative, and state and federal officials have sided with this option. On the other hand, national and state environmental groups support the long bridge favored by the National Wildlife Refuge.
A team of representatives from 13 state and federal agencies is expected to choose the “best” option in May. The design/construction contract is scheduled to be finalized in 2009, which would translate into completion of the bridge around 2013 or later.
Allen Burrus, the Dare County commissioner from Hatteras Island, perhaps summed the whole issue up best when he said, “Hatteras Island is really concerned with our bridge. They want something done quickly.”