MANNS HARBOR – At the request of Manns Harbor residents and Dare County officials, the N.C. Department of Transportation will be taking several measures to improve traffic safety on U.S. 64 in and around Manns Harbor on the Dare County mainland.
Beginning March 19, the speed limit on the Virginia Dare Bridge between Manns Harbor and Roanoke Island will be reduced from 60 mph to 55 mph. In addition, the existing 40 mph zone through the Manns Harbor business district will be extended by approximately 1/10 mile in each direction.
NCDOT will also deploy portable message boards on both sides of the 40 mph zone at the beginning of the summer tourist season.
“We performed an extensive accident analysis and a speed limit study along this corridor,” said NCDOT’s Highway Division 1 Engineer Win Bridgers. “We believe these measures, along with enhanced enforcement, will reduce speeding and greatly improve safety in the area.”
NCDOT crews have also trimmed trees and shrubs along the highway to improve sight lines for cross traffic. Crews will continue to monitor and maintain the foliage as needed throughout the year.