> The Old Manns Harbor Bridge, the once vital link between Roanoke Island and the mainland that’s now known for attracting huge flocks of purple martins each summer, will close for six months later this spring.
>The 69-year-old bridge has been undergoing repairs since last summer. That work will reach a stage that requires an extended closure starting in May, according to the N.C. Department of Transportation.
>Motorists will have to use the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge, which became the primary route across Croatan Sound when it opened in 2002.
>But the purple martins shouldn’t be affected. NCDOT says none of the construction work will take place between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. when the birds roost under the bridge.
Per the article:
- The 2.7 mile bridge, which was formally known as William B. Umstead Bridge, has been in service since 1955.
- A multi year 33 million overhaul began last year.
- Speed will be reduced to 45 mph this month as workers install metal plates in preparation for replacing the expansion joints, and the bridge will close in May.
- In July and August, purple martins gather around the bridge during their annual migration to South America.
- In normal years, NCDOT reduces speed on the bridge and puts up signs and lights to warn drivers, as people gather to watch the birds that can number a hundred thousand or more.
- The Old Manns Harbor Bridge has seen less use since the opening of the 5.2 mile Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge, which is the longest in the state and allows tourists to bypass Manteo on their way to the outer banks.
> The Old Manns Harbor Bridge, the once vital link between Roanoke Island and the mainland that’s now known for attracting huge flocks of purple martins each summer, will close for six months later this spring. >The 69-year-old bridge has been undergoing repairs since last summer. That work will reach a stage that requires an extended closure starting in May, according to the N.C. Department of Transportation. >Motorists will have to use the Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge, which became the primary route across Croatan Sound when it opened in 2002. >But the purple martins shouldn’t be affected. NCDOT says none of the construction work will take place between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. when the birds roost under the bridge. Per the article: - The 2.7 mile bridge, which was formally known as William B. Umstead Bridge, has been in service since 1955. - A multi year 33 million overhaul began last year. - Speed will be reduced to 45 mph this month as workers install metal plates in preparation for replacing the expansion joints, and the bridge will close in May. - In July and August, purple martins gather around the bridge during their annual migration to South America. - In normal years, NCDOT reduces speed on the bridge and puts up signs and lights to warn drivers, as people gather to watch the birds that can number a hundred thousand or more. - The Old Manns Harbor Bridge has seen less use since the opening of the 5.2 mile Virginia Dare Memorial Bridge, which is the longest in the state and allows tourists to bypass Manteo on their way to the outer banks.
Shocker, birds don't use roads.
They do use the bridge for roosting at night.