RALEIGH – Gov. Bev Perdue today announced a temporary plan to return traffic to all of NC 12 on the Outer Banks. The plan involves the placement of a temporary bridge and will allow traffic to flow in less than one month.

Gov. Perdue has secured federal funding to cover the costs of the repairs.

NCDOT, after consulting with more than 75 experts from partner agencies, contractors and scientists will install a temporary, manufactured bridge across the largest breach just south of the Bonner Bridge and fill all other breaches. This plan should restore normal traffic to NC 12 within one month. This short-term solution provides time for NCDOT to develop a comprehensive, long-term plan by collaborating with agency partners and experts, as well as state, local, and federal officials.

The temporary repair plan along NC 12 is estimated to cost $10 million. It will be completely paid for by federal emergency funds that Gov. Perdue secured.

Gov. Perdue has directed NCDOT to work closely with all partners to develop a long-term plan as soon as possible.