Oct. 12, 2016. 11:24 a.m.
The Ocracoke-Hatteras ferry has begun service today but still only for residents, property owners, vendors, and critical infrastructure personnel with required documentation.
Hyde County’s re-entry restrictions remain in effect for all Ocracoke-bound ferries.
The route will run a daylight-hours only operation for the rest of the day Wednesday, Oct. 12 with an anticipated return to full scheduled service on Thursday, Oct. 13.
At this point, all seven North Carolina ferry system routes have returned to service in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew.
The following is from Dare County Emergency Services:
The North Carolina Department of Transportation has worked diligently to clear sand and water from NC Highway 12 on Hatteras Island and has indicated that conditions will soon allow for safe travel.
All Hatteras Island volunteer fire departments and emergency service personnel are working closely with Dare County Emergency Management to ensure that the necessary resources and infrastructure are in place in preparation for the arrival of visitors.
Based on current conditions, the Dare County Control Group has determined that visitors will be allowed access to the villages of Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo, Avon and Buxton beginning 7 a.m. on Thursday (Oct. 13).
Previous restrictions remain in place for areas south of Buxton, Back Road and NC 12 (NC SR 1232 at Cape Hatteras Secondary School), including the villages of Frisco and Hatteras Village. Residents, non-resident property owners and non-resident employees of businesses with proper reentry passes will be allowed access.
It is important for visitors coming to unrestricted villages check with their rental company or accommodations provider to confirm reservations before traveling to the area since some properties were impacted and require repairs. Please be mindful that many residents and businesses of the island have suffered significant impacts and are in the process of recovering so your patience and understanding is truly appreciated.
There is still sand and water on roadways and motorists should proceed with caution. Go slowlhere.y through standing water because creating wake will cause damage to vehicles and nearby properties.
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