RODANTHE, N.C. — Drivers now have full access to Hatteras Island along N.C. 12 after the North Carolina Department of Transportation completed emergency repairs ahead of schedule.
NCDOT officials reopened N.C. 12 on Pea Island to free-flowing, two-way traffic Oct. 3, several days earlier than originally projected.
The reopening follows extensive damage caused by a powerful nor’easter that struck the Outer Banks on Sept. 24. The storm forced the closure of N.C. 12 and temporarily cut off road access to Hatteras Island.
After ocean conditions improved on Sept. 27, NCDOT crews began emergency repairs that included rebuilding the protective sand dune along the highway, removing damaged pavement, and creating a temporary one-lane detour around the washed-out section.
That gravel detour opened Sept. 29.
Since then, crews have continued repair work, removing the remaining damaged asphalt, preparing the roadway, and paving both travel lanes.
Even after two-way traffic resumes, drivers are being urged to use caution through the area.
The automated traffic signals used during the detour period will be switched to flashing yellow, while traffic cones will continue separating lanes temporarily.
NCDOT crews will continue strengthening the protective dune system and installing permanent pavement markings.
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