The N.C. Department of Transportation will develop and compare conceptual alternatives based on cost, constructability, operations and maintenance needs. Other conceptual alternatives will include resilience, environmental impacts, and bicycle and pedestrian access.
This work will produce a set of reasonable alternatives and support consensus on which options should advance under the National Environmental Policy Act. The Planning and Environmental Linkages process will rely on previous N.C. 12 studies to screen alternatives and assess potential environmental impacts.
Project planning includes robust public engagement through public meetings, small‑group discussions, and virtual opportunities to ensure broad community input.
Potential alternatives include constructing a new bridge through Pamlico Sound, using nature‑based solutions such as beach nourishment and dune enhancements to maintain N.C. 12 in place, and/or relocating sections of N.C. 12 to more stable areas, potentially combined with new bridge segments in Pamlico Sound or along the roadway.