‘We’re dumping money into the ocean’: Outer Banks seeks state help for long-term NC 12 fix

By: Clayton Henkel

Outlets: North Carolina Newsline

Published: March 5, 2026

Words: 632

Last Updated: 5 days, 5 hours ago

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Three months before the start of the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, Dare and Hyde County officials urged state lawmakers Thursday to help them fund a more permanent solution to maintain North Carolina Highway 12.

The 148-mile stretch connecting the barrier islands of the Outer Banks is a frequent victim of storms and ocean overwash. The scenic stretch is also critical in bringing in more than $2.2 billion in annual tourism spending.

NC Dept. of Transportation …

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