Threats to North Carolina’s Highway 12: A Growing Concern

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News Summary

Highway 12 in North Carolina serves as a vital link for communities and tourism in the Outer Banks. However, it faces significant threats from rising sea levels and severe weather events. Residents and engineers are increasingly concerned about flooding, erosion, and infrastructure damage caused by climate change, prompting discussions for protective measures. Recent investments and innovative solutions, such as the Rodanthe ‘jug handle’ bridge, aim to mitigate these challenges, but ongoing vulnerabilities remain a pressing issue for the local community.

Threats to North Carolina’s Highway 12: A Growing Concern for Residents

In the picturesque town of Buxton, North Carolina, Highway 12 stands as more than just a stretch of road; it represents the lifeline of a community and a critical artery for tourism. Running a total of 148 miles along the stunning Outer Banks, this two-lane highway not only connects isolated fishing villages but also transforms them into vibrant tourist hotspots that attract millions each year.

The Beauty and the Storms

However, the beauty of the Outer Banks comes with a price as Highway 12 faces an array of threats from relentless storms such as hurricanes and nor’easters. This road, particularly vulnerable on Hatteras Island, frequently suffers from flooding, leaving sections submerged and residents and travelers frustrated. Everyone from engineers to scientists is now busily brainstorming methods to safeguard the highway, all while the looming threat of climate change continues to grow.

Recent studies indicate that the sea levels in this region are rising at double the rate compared to other parts of southeastern North Carolina, heightening fears for communities that rely heavily on this critical infrastructure. Local homeowners are particularly distressed as they ponder the potential impacts of extreme weather events on their homes and livelihoods.

Community Voices and Vulnerabilities

Buxton, with a modest population of around 1,500, is solely accessible via Highway 12, making it particularly fragile during storms. The tides of climate change present pressing concerns, especially with Hatteras Island having experienced around 156 hurricanes or tropical storms since 1851. When high waves and flooding strike, daily life is disrupted, often rendering parts of the highway impassable for extended periods.

Efforts from the state have led to significant investments—hundreds of millions of dollars to protect and maintain the highway. Yet, recent reports indicate damage still looms large, as storm surge pushes saltwater into roadways and septic systems, further complicating infrastructure challenges.

Looking Ahead: Erosion and Development

In an era where development is booming, natural erosion and sediment movement, both critical to sustaining the coastline, are facing unprecedented restrictions. A 2020 North Carolina Climate Science Report underscores that stronger storms and higher winds may soon become our new normal due to climate change, putting not just Highway 12 at risk but also the communities it serves.

Local students are expressing urgency concerning climate issues, with a staggering 95% feeling that structural changes must be made to safeguard their future. There are glimmers of hope. Recent measures such as the construction of the Rodanthe “jug handle” bridge aim to curb flooding and protect the highway, while a beach nourishment plan developed in 2022 focuses on enhancing vulnerable areas, especially around the beloved Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Residents Take Action

Despite these advancements, the community remains on edge. Residents worry about their homes and the prospects of rising waters. The relentless cycle of flooding has resulted in multiple closures of Highway 12. With the threat of erosion looming, some are advocating for at-risk properties to be moved further inland, ensuring they do not succumb to the forces of nature.

The economic model that thrives on investment in oceanfront properties is being questioned, as coastal geologists warn that continued investment may not be sustainable in the face of powerful storms and rising seas. The sad reality is that some homes, especially in Rodanthe, have already been claimed by the unpredictable tides.

What Lies Ahead?

As the Outer Banks community grapples with the impact of climate change on their lives and livelihoods, the future of Highway 12 hangs in the balance. Without effective adaptation strategies, maintaining this crucial roadway may prove a daunting challenge. The community stands united, hopeful that fresh ideas and collaborative efforts can safeguard their cherished stretches of road—and their homes—against the relentless advance of climate change.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER

The OBX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOBX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in the Outer Banks, Dare County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Outer Banks Seafood Festival, NC VIP Fishing Tournament, and NCBBA Red Drum Tournament. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Outer Banks Chamber of Commerce and Outer Banks Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in tourism, retail, and hospitality that power the local economy such as Kitty Hawk Kites, Outer Banks Mall, and Avon Fishing Pier. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HERERaleigh.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.