National Park Service Repairs Ramp 27 Access

Date: May 8, 2006
Contact: Outer Banks Group, [phone]

Superintendent Mike Murray announced that beginning May 9, 2006 the National Park Service will begin repairing the access area at Ramp 27. During the repair process, Ramp 27 will be temporarily closed. Visitors will be able to access the beach between Salvo and Avon at Ramp 30 or Ramp 23. “I am pleased that we are able to repair the Ramp 27 before the start of the summer season. It is important to maintain safe access to the beach for our visitors” stated Superintendent Murray.

The repairs are necessary to fill the washout area created by Hurricane Isabel in 2003. During heavy storms and strong winds, this area has been prone to over wash. To prevent this, the access area will be built up using sand, wooden mats, clay and clamshells. CAMA has authorized the repairs and now requires the use of clay and clamshells to repair the ramp access. These new materials will replace the marl or gravel used in the past. This process should stabilize the access area located between the dunes and shifting sands.

The National Park Service anticipates this work being completed during the week and all efforts will be made to have the ramp open for weekend access. If additional work is necessary, the ramp may close again during the week of May 15, 2006.