Project Overview
The N.C. Department of Transportation replaced the Earl C. Davis Memorial Bridge (Bridge No. 73) and Bridge No. 96 – both of which connect the town of Straits on the mainland to Harkers Island, with a new structure.
The bridges were each more than 50 years old and were due for replacement. Replacing the bridges provides better access to and from the island in emergencies and during hurricane evacuations.
The new bridge is primarily made of carbon-fiber and glass-fiber reinforcement, making it the first structure in the state to use the material. The material is used to combat corrosion in coastal environments, which will mean the bridge will require less maintenance.
Project Funding
This project is listed as Project B-4863 in the N.C. Department of Transportation's State Transportation Improvement Program and is funded for $68 million.
| Project Development & Design | $1,720,000 |
| Property Acquisition | $1,320,000 |
| Utility Relocation | $5,000,000 |
| Construction Costs | $60,000,000 |
| Total Cost | $68,040,000 |
*Estimated costs subject to change