Embedded Files
Welcome to the Hyde County community resource page regarding the upcoming, drastic changes to the North Carolina Ferry System.
Effective January 1, 2027, Hyde County and the residents of Ocracoke face the implementation of new tolls on the Ocracoke-to-Hatteras ferry route—historically a free service—and significant fee increases for the sound-class ferry routes. This mandate was entered into suddenly, lacking the comprehensive planning required to prevent service disruptions and protect the Ocracoke and Outer Banks economies.
The Ocracoke-Hatteras ferry is not a luxury or a tourist attraction; it is our highway.
The Threat to Our Community
The Threat to Our Community
The sudden imposition of these costs poses a direct threat to the livelihoods of local residents and the stability of our coastal communities. Furthermore, because the new legislation does not grant the NCDOT authority to issue resident priority passes, Ocracoke residents face the devastating loss of priority boarding. This is a vital lifeline our community has relied upon for over 40 years to access essential medical care, schooling, and daily necessities.
Full stacking lanes are typical during the summer
We believe a thoughtful, transparent process is necessary to ensure that these "marine highways" remain accessible and equitable for those who depend on them most.
County Action & Resolutions
County Action & Resolutions
Hyde County is actively fighting this legislation alongside our neighboring coastal communities. Please review the official documents below:
Presentation Concerning Tolling from NC Ferry Division
Joint Ferry Toll Resolution: A joint effort by Beaufort, Brunswick, Carteret, Craven, Currituck, Dare, Hyde, New Hanover, and Pamlico counties asking Gov. Josh Stein and the NCDOT to waive ferry tolls for locally registered vehicles.
Priority Pass Resolution: A formal plea to the NC General Assembly to amend the statute to restore priority boarding on the Hatteras route.
📢 Make Your Voices Heard!
We cannot do this alone. We need every resident and supporter of Ocracoke to contact state leaders immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why are tolls being added to a previously free route?
A: Under North Carolina Session Law 2026-41, the N.C. General Assembly passed a mandate requiring the NCDOT Ferry Division to begin collecting tolls on all ferry routes by January 1, 2027. This includes four routes that have historically been free: Hatteras-Ocracoke, Currituck-Knotts Island, Bayview-Aurora, and Cherry Branch-Minnesott Beach.
Q: What is happening to our Priority Passes?
A: As the legislation is currently written, the budget bill does not give the NCDOT the legal authority to issue resident priority passes. Therefore, unless the General Assembly amends the law, the Ocracoke resident priority pass program will become invalid on January 1, 2027. While the law does establish a $150 annual commuter pass, this pass does not grant priority boarding.
Q: How else can I help besides signing the petition?
A: The most impactful thing you can do is show up and speak out. Attend the NCDOT public listening sessions, call Governor Stein's office, and contact our state representatives directly using the buttons above. Tell them exactly how the loss of a free, priority marine highway will impact your family, your business, and your health.
Page updated
Report abuse