I believe replacing the Bonner Bridge is long overdue. Any further delay risks the loss of this vital transportation lifeline. Without the Bonner Bridge, public access to Hatteras Island would be devastated with drastic consequences to residents, small businesses, property owners and millions of yearly visitors. Replacing of the bridge is vital for public safety as well as the economic, cultural, historic and social well being of the region.
I endorse the new Preferred Alternative outlined in the Environmental Assessment from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). This plan represents a practical solution that, first and foremost, calls for immediate replacement of the Bonner Bridge. This alternative has the support of the Federal Highway Administration and State and Local officials.
I recommend the following key components outlined in the Preferred Alternative –
- Replace the Bonner Bridge immediately with a new parallel bridge
- Eliminate the “Long Bridge” option, which is impractical and unfundable
- Use a Transportation Management Plan for development of NC Highway 12
- Begin immediate construction without further environmental studies and delays
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