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Ferry Bus Service Enhances Student Safety in Currituck County

School bus at ferry terminal for students

Currituck County, August 29, 2025

News Summary

The North Carolina Department of Transportation has recognized the ferry bus route for students from Knott’s Island, which provides a safer and more efficient way for children to commute to school. Established in 1942, this vital service transports students across Currituck Sound, ensuring their safety and promoting regular school attendance. Parents have praised the ferry bus service for eliminating the dangers of longer land routes. The ferry service is a key solution for families in the community, guaranteeing safe access to education.

Currituck County, NC – The North Carolina Department of Transportation has recognized a distinctive school bus route that plays a crucial role in the safety of students from Knott’s Island in Currituck County. A press release issued on August 28, 2025, highlighted the significance of this ferry bus service that enables children to travel to school securely.

Each school day, buses transport students to a ferry terminal where they board a ferry for a 45-minute journey across Currituck Sound. This route, established in 1942, is designed to provide a safer and more convenient option for students attending middle and high school. Without this ferry service, families would face a considerably longer and less safe alternative, which would require a drive exceeding an hour through rural areas in Virginia, navigating winding two-lane roads.

The ferry bus service is essential not only for maintaining safety and convenience for students but also for ensuring that they can attend school regularly. After classes, the buses arrive back at Knott’s Island around 4:45 p.m., allowing students to reach home safely after their school day.

Access to Education

This innovative transportation solution has become vital for the community, particularly for families residing on Knott’s Island. The daily commute involves coordination between the school district, the ferry service, and the families of students. Parents have expressed appreciation for the ferry service as it eliminates the dangers associated with the longer drive while fostering consistent school attendance for their children.

Safety First

The importance of this ferry route cannot be understated. N.C. Ferry Division Director Jed Dixon emphasized that ensuring a safe travel method for these children is a priority. The ferry route helps to lessen the risks associated with longer drives and provides a controlled and secure environment for students during their transit to school. The ferry is equipped to handle the ferry transit in all weather conditions, ensuring that travel is safe and reliable.

Historical Context

The decision to establish the ferry bus route in 1942 was driven by the recognition of the challenges posed by the geography of Currituck Sound. This route has allowed generations of students to access education while ensuring their safety over almost eight decades. This history showcases the capabilities of community planning and resourcefulness in addressing educational accessibility in isolated regions.

The ferry and bus service remains an exemplary model of how transportation solutions can enhance safety and convenience for students in rural areas. It reflects the state’s ongoing commitment to providing its children with equitable access to education while prioritizing their safety.

In conclusion, the school bus ferry service across Currituck Sound highlights the importance of thoughtful transportation solutions in supporting educational access for students. Ensuring this safe passage keeps the community engaged and allows families to focus on learning opportunities for the next generation while knowing their children are transported safely to and from school.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ferry bus route for Knott’s Island students?

The ferry bus route transports students from Knott’s Island across Currituck Sound to school. Students board a ferry for a 45-minute ride as part of their daily commute.

Why is the ferry route important for safety?

The ferry route is crucial because it provides a safer means of transportation compared to the alternative land route, which would involve a longer drive through rural Virginia on winding, less safe roads.

When was the ferry bus route established?

The ferry bus route was established in 1942 to enhance safety and convenience for students attending school.

What time do students arrive home after school?

Buses typically drop students off at Knott’s Island around 4:45 p.m. after school.

Key Features of the Ferry Bus Route

Feature Details
Duration of Ferry Ride 45 minutes
Established 1942
Drop-off Time 4:45 p.m.
Benefits Increased safety and convenience for students traveling to school
Alternative Route Over an hour through Virginia on winding roads

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Additional Resources

Ferry Bus Service Enhances Student Safety in Currituck County

STAFF HERE OUTER BANKS WRITER
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.

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