Date: June 25, 2009
Contact: Cyndy Holda, 252-473-2111, ext. 148
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that plans for significant improvements at several sites in the Bodie Island area of Cape Hatteras National Seashore are proceeding as planned this summer. Work has already begun on several of the projects and during the months of July and August, park visitors will see a variety of work being conducted in the area.
Three historic structures, known as the Bodie Island Lifesaving Station, its boathouse, and the former Bodie Island Coast Guard Station, are threatened by impacts of shoreline erosion and will be moved west of Rt. 12. Site preparation for installation of utilities and the structure foundation work began this week at the intersection of the Bodie Island Lighthouse Road and Rt. 12. Plans are to move the buildings to the new location in late July.
In partnership with North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC), a new boardwalk will be constructed near the Bodie Island Lighthouse. Work is scheduled to begin the week of June 29 th and will be completed in 75 days. The project will result in a new and improved, wheelchair-accessible boardwalk which will lead visitors from the parking lot to an elevated platform with magnificent opportunities to view birds and wildlife. During construction, the existing boardwalk and the adjacent grounds will be temporarily closed to public entry.
Repairs to one of the finger piers at the public boat ramps adjacent to the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center will necessitate a temporary closing of the one of the four ramps during the week of June 29th. The replacement of a pier piling will cause minimal impact to the visiting public and the work should be completed in one or two days, weather permitting.
Oregon Inlet Campground will also see boardwalk improvements. Boardwalks leading into the restroom facilities and other structures will be replaced this summer.
A major renovation of the Bodie Island Lighthouse is expected to begin in September 2009. A contract for the work is expected to be awarded in mid-July with construction starting after Labor Day.
For more information, contact Dennis McGinnis or Greg Robinson at 252-473-2111 ext. 124 and 127.
