Sidewalks

When Ocracoke's first roads were paved (first during WWII, then in the 1950s) there was little anticipation that the village would host so many summer visitors. As a result, the state of North Carolina's right of way on roads through the heart of the village includes no more than the pavement itself. This has led to much congestion, especially in July & August, as vehicles, pedestrians, and bicyclists all vie for space on the roadway.

Some relief is now in sight. Thanks to the efforts of Earl O'Neal and others, especially landowners along Highway 12, the state is in the process of installing narrow, but serviceable sidewalks between "kayak corner" and the ferry lanes. According to Earl, the project should be completed by May 18.

This month's Ocracoke Newsletter tells about island customs relating to death & dying. You can read the newsletter here.