Ferry Talk

The buzz around the island is that North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is discussing adding a toll to the Hatteras Ferry. This was presented at the Ocracoke Civic and Business Association meeting last week and it certainly has folks talking. The fees discussed are $10 each way and residents would have an option of purchasing a pass for $100 a month. The Hatteras ferry has always been free and since Ocracoke, can only be reached by ferry, residents use it for medical and dental appointments, shopping - all sorts of things. The fee for the Cedar Island and Swan Quarter ferries may also increase with talk of doubling the current price or even more.

There is a NC law that that has always been interpreted that there must be free access for folks to reach their residence. Seems like the state is considering changing this law.

The ferries have been running at a loss and changes are probably inevitable. The total annual operations costs are $40.8 million. Current revenues from ferry riders total $2.2 million. Some money is also generated from the NCDOT but seems the legislature wants to generate at least 25% or $10.4 million from tolls. Having run a large business while I was living, I know about balancing budgets and how difficult it can be. I also understand how difficult this may be for Ocracoke residents, businesses and tourists.

A bookstore in the village, Books To Be Read, has some information on its Facebook page that you may want to check out. Certainly hope something can be worked out to be agreeable to all concerned.

Spirit of Sam Jones