OREGON INLET, N.C. (WAVY) — A community celebration was held for the replacement of the Bonner Bridge in the Outer Banks on Saturday.
Citizens got the chance to walk or bike over the new bridge from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Despite the really windy, cold temperatures, hundreds of people came out to celebrate and walk, run or even bike across the new bridge, which hasn’t yet opened to traffic.
“It’s a once in a lifetime walk across it, I don’t think we’ll get the chance to do it again,” said David Forbes.
The new bridge runs parallel to the current one, but it’s higher and longer and has a 100-year life span.
It will open to traffic later this month, and drivers tell 10 On Your Side they can’t wait.
“It’s a lot safer for sure, a lot safer, because that one’s been needing repairs and work for a long time so it’s a good addition,” said Todd Parks.
A more formal bridge dedication event is currently being planned for early April.
As for the original Bonner Bridge, officials say a part of it will stay in place for pedestrians while other parts that are demolished will be added to offshore reef sites.
